What the Riff Next Gen

By Rob Marbury, Wayne Rowan, Bruce Fricks, John LynchMusic Music Commentary

What the Riff Next Gen episodes

August 10, 2020 1965 — February: Herman’s Hermits “Introducing Herman’s Hermits”
Introducing Herman’s Hermits is the the debut album for the band Herman’s Hermits. Front man Peter Noone was an actor on "Coronation Street," a British TV soap opera. The resemblance between Noone and a character named Sherman (from the Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoon) was noted, and this name was shortened to "Herman." The group would start using the name "Herman and His Hermits," and this was also shortened to "Herman's Hermits."
Herman's Hermits were a part of the British Invasion of the early 60's, which included acts like the Dave Clark 5, The Merseybeats, and of course The Beatles. In fact, the group was curated to appeal to American audiences, with a non-threatening clean cut image very different from that of other rock bands like the Rolling Stones and The Who. In addition to their music, the band also appeared in several MGM-produced movies at the time, including the 1968 film, "Mrs. Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter."
This was a very popular band in the early 60's, posting 12 top-10 songs by the middle of the decade. By 1968, however, music tastes had changed, and Herman's Hermits lost popularity in the United States. They did see a resurgence in the 80's, and toured in the oldies circuits at the time, though with a different lead singer since Peter Noone left the band in 1971.
Peter Noone still tours today, and this would be a great act to catch when he comes to your town.

Mrs. Brown, You've Got A Lovely Daughter
The English accent is exaggerated in this song, a departure from the more common attempts to downplay accents. "Make a bloke feel so proud!" This was not intended to be a single, but it went to number 1 on the charts. The Chipmunks covered this song in 1965 as well.
Show Me Girl
This deeper cut was co-written by Carole King and went to number 19 in the UK. "So if you really care and you're not just wasting my time, come on and show me girl."
Henry the 8th
Another song that promotes the English accent, the name is pronounced, "En-e-ry" in the Cockney style. It is a 1910 British music hall song, but in 1965 it became the fastest-selling song in history. Herman's Hermit took it to number 1, beating out the Rolling Stones "Satisfaction." Interestingly, this is not about Henry VIII, king of England, but about the 8th Henry to marry the widow next door.
I'm Into Something Good
This is another song penned by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, it is surprising that it only reached number 13 despite its enduring popularity. King was inspired by the work of The Beach Boy's Brian Wilson when she wrote this song. It tells of a new love.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the television series “Lost In Space”
This science fiction series was playing at the time. "Danger, Will Robinson!"

STAFF PICKS:
“The Boy from New York City” by The Ad Libs
Bruce brings us a doo-wop quintet from Bayonne, New Jersey. Though they continued to record into the 80's, The Ad Libs would only post this hit at number 8 from February 1965. The Manhattan Transfer took a cover version to number 7 in 1981. And The Darts took it to number 2 in the UK in 1978.
“You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin’” by The Righteous Brothers
Rob's pick also features a song well known from its cover version, this time from 1980 by Hall & Oates. According to BMI the original and/or its cover versions was the most played song on American radio and TV for 22 years until 2019, when it was usurped by Sting's “Every Breath You Take.”
“All Day and All of the Night” by The Kinks
Brian's staff pick was influenced by a previous Kink's song “You Really Got Me.” In turn, it also heavily influenced The Doors “Hello, I Love You.” A young session guitarist, Jimmy Page, is rumored to have played on it, though Davies denied it.
“The Midnight Special” by Johnny Rivers
Wayne also brings us a song better known by its cover, this time covered by Credence Clearwater Revival. Johnny Rivers had this folk song in the top 20 in 1965, but the original was recorded in 1905. It talks about the dreams of prisoners to be on the midnight train.

COMEDY TRACK:
“Jolly Green Giant” by The Kingsmen
This comedic track is based on the Jolly Green Giant of green beans fame.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
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**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
26 min
August 03, 2020 1970 - January: Chicago “Chicago II”
Although commonly called Chicago II, this album is technically the first Chicago album because their first album was under the name The Chicago Transit Authority. They changed their name in 1969 under pressure from the municipal governmental body called the Chicago Transit Authority.
Chicago II is a double album, full of jams and their trademark horns. The first four albums would all be double albums. We're going to feature two songs from this album, although one is actually a seven part song cycle with at least two parts you will identify as well known singles.
Chicago is: Peter Cetera on bass and vocals, Terry Kath on guitar and vocals, Robert Lamm on keybards and vocals, Lee Loughane on trumpet and flugelhorn, James Pankow on trombone, Walter Parazaider on saxophones and flute, and Danny Seraphine on drums.
Chicago describes itself as “rock and roll with horns,” though it is a fusion of many types of music, part hard rock, part jazz, part prog rock, part soft rock, maybe even a little classical music for good measure. Whatever you call it, we enjoy the variety and depth, and hope you will too.

Ballet for a Girl in Buchanan
This is a seven movement song cycle written by trombonist James Pankow. The namesake girl is Terry Heisler, Pankow's ex fiancee who was attending West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, West Virginia at the time. Pankow wrote the piece in an attempt to get her back, and also because of his inspiration from classical music song cycles.
Movement 1: Make Me Smile
Terry Kath is on lead vocals for this movement. You have likely heard the single on the radio, which is created by splicing the first movement and the last movement together.
Movement 2: So Much to Say, So Much to Give
This movement features Robert Lamm on lead vocals.
Movement 3: Anxiety's Moment and Movement 4: West Virginia Fantasies
The third and fourth movements are instrumental tracks, and rather straightforward prog rock concepts.
Movement 5: Color My World
Terry Kath returns to lead vocals on a piece that should be familiar as its own single. Frank Sinatra supposedly wanted to record a version of the song if Pankow would write an additional verse. Pankow declined, so we have the song as a long piano intro, one verse, and a flute solo.
Movement 6: To Be Free
This instrumental has a distinct 1970's feel to it, and builds to the final movement.
Movement 7: Now More Than Ever
The final movement is a reprise of the theme from the first movement, Make Me Smile. You will recognize this from the single.
25 or 6 to 4
We can't do a Chicago album without catching Peter Cetera on lead vocals somewhere. Robert Lamm wrote this song about trying to write a song in the middle of the night - 25 or 26 minutes before 4 a.m. (who really knows?)

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from "M*A*S*H"
The motion picture M*A*S*H appeared in January 1970. Only one of the actors from the motion picture would reprise his role in the television series - Gary Rich Burghoff, aka Radar O'Reilly.

STAFF PICKS:
“My Baby Loves Lovin'” by White Plains
Wayne's staff pick is a bubble gum pop hit from the one hit wonder group, White Plains. “She's got what it takes, and she knows how to use it.” Lead vocalist Tony Burrows had 5 hits, all with different one hit wonder groups.
“Come Together” by The Beatles
Rob features the well-known psychedelic hit from the Fab Four. It was inspired by a request from Timothy Leary to write a campaign song for his California gubernatorial run against Ronald Reagan. While Lennon couldn't come up with a campaign song, he did create this one using a Leary quote — “come together.”
“Up On Cripple Creek” by The Band
Brian's cranks up the swamp rock that references his hometown Lake Charles, Louisiana. Robbie Robertson wrote this song about a mountain man and a girl named Bessie. “A drunkard's dream if I ever did see one!”
“I Want You Back” by the Jackson 5
Bruce's staff pick introduces the first hit from the kid who would become the King of Pop. This would start a string of 4 singles what would be consecutive number 1 hits.

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“969 (The Oldest Man)” by The Guess Who
We wind up this week's episode with an instrumental blues number from the album American Woman.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
37 min
July 27, 2020 1981 - May: The Go-Go’s “Beauty and the Beat”
I can tell what you're thinking: really, What the Riff? The Go-Go's? That's not rock, that's pop! Well we'll agree that their debut album Beauty and the Beat was quite popular, but the group has its roots in the punk movement, not pop music.
With Belinda Carlisle on lead vocals, Charlotte Caffey on lead guitar and keyboards, Gina Schock on percussion, Kathy Valentine on bass, and Jane Wiedlin on rhythm guitar, The Go-Go's were the first and (so far) only all female band to hit the top of the charts writing their OWN songs and playing their OWN instruments.
Their inspiration comes from punk stalwarts like Iggy Pop and The Sex Pistols, and the band was formed before the members actually knew how to play their instruments. They established a reputation in the L.A. punk scene and were eventually signed by I.R.S. Records. Beauty and the Beat combines Punk sensibilities with the upcoming New Wave sound of the early 80's, and the result was both critically and popularly well received. The Go-Go's would be nominated for the Best New Artist Grammy in 1982, and Beauty and the Beat would spend 6 weeks atop the Billboard 200 chart.
So it is OK to rock out to The Go-Go's. But don't worry if you're embarrassed. We won't tell. Our lips are sealed!

We Got the Beat
This is the song that started it all for The Go-Go's. Penned by guitarist and keyboardist Charlotte Caffey, it gained popularity as a demo in the UK in 1980. They were invited to tour with the group Madness at that time, and it's distinctive percussion beat is iconic.
Our Lips Are Sealed
“Pay no mind to what they say. It doesn't matter anyway.” This was the first track on the album and the lead U.S. single. It's pop orientation is also atypical for the group, and The Go-Go's were unenthusiastic about doing the video. The perky, fresh image was very different from their roots.
Can't Stop the World
This deeper cut sounds a little more new wave than the hits off the album. Kathy Valentine's bass licks are prominent on this track. The lyrics are good advice for today. “Things will be alright. Can't stop the world.”
Automatic
This minor key track has a mysterious vibe to it. This song is played in the background on a documentary on The Go-Go's discussing the darker side of the group. There are some cool pauses in the middle of this track.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The William Tell Overture (Main Theme from "The Legend of the Lone Ranger")
One of the biggest box office failures hit the cinemas this month, and both the star and director of the movie would not respectively act and direct again.

STAFF PICKS:
Swords & Tequilla by Riot
Wayne's staff pick cranks out the rock. Heavy Metal band Riot is out of New York City, and unfortunately didn't catch the fame that later hair bands would gain. This is from their album Fire Down Under. The lead singer was killed in Atlanta when shot during an attempted carjacking.
Ain't Even Done with the Night by John Cougar
Brian brings us an early hit from the album “Nothin' Matters, and What If It Did” by John Cougar. Cougar - soon to revert back to John Mellencamp - was an observational writer, and so his songs are not autobiographical. “It's time to go home, and I ain't even done with the night.”
Find Your Way Back by Jefferson Starship
Bruce's staff pick is off Modern Times, the sixth album by Jefferson Starship, and the second with Mickey Thomas on lead vocals. This song is about regret at leaving a relationship. The chorus comes back to the theme, “find your way back to her heart.”
Somebody's Knockin' by Terri Gibbs
Rob finishes us off with a crossover country song from from talented and blind Georgia native Terri Gibbs. This song hit number 13 on the pop charts. “Lord it's the devil, would you look at him? I've heard about him, but I never dreamed he'd have blue eyes and blue jeans.”

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Primera Invasion by Santana
This instrumental track showcases the talents of Carlos Santana, who had an album on the charts at the time.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
32 min
July 20, 2020 1971 - July: The Allman Brothers Band ”At Fillmore East”
The Allman Brothers Band recorded their third album live in March 1971 over two days. At Fillmore East would become their breakthrough album, filled with enough blues-rock jams to make it a double, despite the fact that there were only seven songs in total. Brothers Duane and Gregg Allman realized that their strength was rooted in their live shows, and determined that the best showcase for them would be a live album.
The band features Gregg Allman on vocals, piano, and organ, Duane Allman and Dickey Betts on guitars, Berry Oakley on bass guitar, and Butch Trucks and Jai Johanny Johanson on percussion. The band was unusual in having both two lead guitar players and two percussion players.
At Fillmore East went gold about 3 months after its release. Unfortunately, Duane Allman died in a motorcycle accident in Macon at the height of the album's popularity in October 1971. Only 13 months later bassist Barry Oakley also died in a motorcycle accident only 3 blocks away from the place where Duane had died.
Friend of the show Andy Burt features this classic album.

Statesboro Blues
This track opens the album, and was written in 1928 by Blind Willie McTell. The blues group Taj Mahal recorded a version of the song in 1968, and this inspired Duane Allman to perform the song and to play it on the slide guitar. The slide Allman used was a glass vial originally containing cold medicine!
Hot'lanta
This instrumental song is a deeper cut that gets its name from a nickname for Atlanta. Gregg and Duane Allman got their start in Hourglass (which we previously featured), but were not well suited to work in a pop group. Hot'lanta was never recorded in a studio, but was only recorded live.
In Memory of Elizabeth Reed
Another instrumental, this song was a jam based off a track from their second studio album. You get a sense of their jazz influences here, both from Miles Davis and John Coletrane. The song was written for a girl with whom Dickie Betts had an affair. Not wanting to name her, Betts took the name from a tombstone in the Rose Hill Cemetery in Macon, Georgia.
Whipping Post
Perhaps the most famous track on the album, Whipping Post takes up an entire album side. Jerry Oakley wrote the riff, and Gregg Allman wrote the lyrics. The idea is of a man betrayed by a woman who feels completely helpless. The complex meter is unusual for a blues rock band, and shows the versatility and fusion characteristics of the band.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The theme from the motion picture “Shaft” by Isaac Hayes
Who is the man that would risk his neck for his brother, man? (Shaft) Can ya dig it?

STAFF PICKS:
“Hot Pants” by James Brown
Brian keeps the music Georgia-based with his staff pick from the Godfather of Soul. The official name of this song is "Hot Pants (She Got to Use What She Got to Get What She Wants)," and this is part 1 of a 3-part funk song. Parts 2 and 3 appeared on the B-side of the single for part 1.
“Love the One You're With” by The Isley Brothers
Rob brings us a soulful cover of the Stephen Stills song you've likely heard before. The Isley Brothers would take this version to number 3 on the R&B charts, and it was their 5th top 40 single. The Isley Brothers got their start in the 50's, and brought a fusion approach to gospel harmonies.
“Smiling Faces Sometimes” by The Undisputed Truth
Wayne's staff pick continues the soulful tact with this psychedelic soul production. The Undisputed Truth was known for their unusual costumes and makeup, predating the glam-rock trend. Beware of the handshake that hides the snake. Can you dig it?
“Riders on the Storm” by The Doors
Andy finishes off the staff picks with this song inspired by “Ghost Riders in the Sky.” The dark lyrics were inspired by serial killer Billy Cook, who killed six people while hitchhiking in California. This single was released just before Jim Morrison died in Paris.

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“K-Jee” by The Nite-Liters
This instrumental hit was on the charts at the time, and would make a re-appearance on the disco motion picture “Saturday Night Fever.”
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
45 min
July 13, 2020 1981 - August: (various artists) ”Heavy Metal” Soundtrack
In 1977 Leonard Mogel began publishing a dark, illustrated, steampunk, and somewhat erotic science fiction and fantasy magazine called Heavy Metal, and in 1981 an adult animated sci-fi fantasy film by the same name was produced by Mogel and Ivan Reitman. The film would become a mainstay of the midnight movie circuit (along with “the Rocky Horror Picture Show”) throughout the 1980's, and would also lead to a hit album which would peak at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart.
The movie mirrors a comic book, in that it strings together a number of shorter vignettes into an entire animated movie. The shorts are loosely held together by the frame of the Loc Nar, an orb that is the ultimate evil.
Filled with terrific rock tracks, the soundtrack would become mired with legal issues, causing the CD to not be released until 1995. If you wanted to hear it before that, you needed to buy the LP.
We're only giving you a taste of this album, folks. You really should download and listen to it in its entirety.
Friend of the show Andy Burt stands in for Bruce in this one way ticket to midnight.

Heavy Metal (Takin' a Ride) by Don Felder
This is the title track by once and future Eagles alumnus Don Felder. Fellow Eagles alumni Don Henley and Timothy B. Schmit also contribute backing vocals. The track would be the only Felder solo effort to chart, appearing at number 43. The music is associated with the film episode entitled B-17.
Veteran of the Psychic Wars by Blue Oyster Cult
Penned by Eric Bloom and British author Michael Moorcock, this song appears in the story entitled Harry Canyon. John Candy voices the Sergeant in this segment. The song itself reflects a futuristic soldier exhibiting PTSD.
Heavy Metal by Sammy Hagar
“Headbangers in leather!” This song was written for the movie. “It's a one-way ticket to midnight! Cal it - Heavy Metal.” This iconic track is played in the segment called So Beautiful & So Dangerous.
The Mob Rules by Black Sabbath
The short entitled Taarna contains this track. Ronnie James Dio is the front man for this iteration of Black Sabbath. "If you listen to fools, the mob rules." This is the concluding vignette from the film.
“Reach Out” by Cheap Trick
Wayne doubles up with his out-of-order staff pick, from the Heavy Metal Soundtrack. This track also takes place in the Taarna vignette.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK
“Bad Moon Rising” by Credence Clearwater Revival
"An American Werewolf in London" was on the big screen at this time, with some amazing special effects in this day. CCR contributed this song as the theme of the film.

STAFF PICKS:
“Gemini Dream” by The Moody Blues
Brian's staff pick comes from a synthesizer heavy hit from prog rock superstars The Moody Blues. It hit number 12 on the charts, and comes from their album "Long Distance Voyager." Justin Hayward and John Lodge co-wrote this song.
“Really Wanna Know You” by Gary Wright
Rob brings us another synth-heavy hit from the artist best known for "Dreamweaver." Wright worked closely with ex-Beatle George Harrison, and developed an affinity for eastern religion which permeates his music.
“Hold on Tight” by E.L.O.
Guest Andy finishes off our staff picks with this somewhat Rockabilly boogie number 2 charting track from the Electric Light Orchestra. It is off their sci-fi themed album “Time.” At the time, it was the most expensive video produced. Interestingly, it only hit number 24 in France despite the fact that it has french lyrics in the song.

COMEDY/INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Birdy Song” by The Tweets
Bruce gets blamed for this comedy song choice to finish off an otherwise awesome podcast.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
39 min
July 06, 2020 1987 - May: Hoodoo Gurus ”Blow Your Cool!”
We’re headed back down under this week with Australian group Hoodoo Gurus and their third album, Blow Your Cool! The Gurus formed Sydney in 1981 under songwriter, guitarist, and lead singer Dave Faulkner. The group was fleshed out by Richard Grossman on bass, Mark Kingmill on drums, and Brad Shepherd on guitar, harmonica, and vocals. Hoodoo Gurus were most popular on college radio, and this album was released at the peak of their popularity.
The Gurus were influenced by B movies and pop culture of the 60's, and the similarity to the B-52's is clear.
Friend of the show Joel Nabors brings us this album, which he heard at Auburn on WETL. Enjoy this trip back to “college in the 80's!”

Party Machine
This upbeat song features Brad Shepherd on harmonica, and is a song about getting paid, having no obligations for the weekend, and headed out to party. "Dig my words, it's a happening scene! Hitch a ride on the Party Machine."
The Middle of the Land
This track is a little more hard rock oriented, with heavy percussion. It is about evangelical preachers and hypocrisy.
What's My Scene
A catchy guitar riff starts this song which was the most popular one off the album. It's about looking at life and love, and wondering when you're time will come. "Now the stage is set, where's my Juliet, baby?"
Good Times
This is a fun song which features The Bangles on background vocals. There was a planned tour co-headlined between the Hoodoo Gurus and The Bangles, but the skyrocketing popularity of The Bangles at the time resulted in the Gurus being the opening act.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The theme from the television series “The Twilight Zone”
In May 1987, "The Twilight Zone" motion picture director John Landis was found not guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of actor Vic Morrow and two child actors, killed in a helicopter accident.

STAFF PICKS:
“Holy War” by John Butcher Axis
Wayne's staff pick features a rocking song with an easter feel from New England songwriter John Butcher. This song describes people who use religion to fight a holy war. Butcher identified with Jimi Hendrix, and the name Axis comes from the Hendrix album "Axis: Bold as Love."
“Midnight Blue” by Lou Gramm
Brian brings us the lead single from Foreigner frontman Lou Gramm's solo debut. "Life is simple. It's either cherry red, or midnight blue." Cherry red is everything going well, midnight blue is dark and mysterious. They lyrics describe a couple who are broken up, but the boy vows to come back again.
“Weapons of Love” by The Truth
Rob's staff pick digs deep from a group formed in 1982. This is The Truth's best selling single, and the title track from their album of the same name. Weapons of Love peaked at number 7 on the rock charts.
“Just Like Heaven” by The Cure
Joel rounds us out this week with a well-known song from another college rock favorite. It sounds surprisingly upbeat, though still somehow melancholy, from ordinarily dark goth group The Cure. "Spinning on that dizzy edge. I kissed her face, I kissed her head."

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
"Initiation" by Helloween
This instrumental track opens German heavy metal Helloween's album "The Keeper of the Seven Keys: Part I."
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
34 min
June 29, 2020 1994 - January: Alice in Chains “Jar of Flies”
Seattle based Alice in Chains may have been associated with the grunge music for which Seattle was famous at the time, but they departed from the standard grunge scene in many ways. Jar of Flies was actually an EP rather than a standard album, and so was shorter than the extended length albums that many groups were producing during the CD era. While Alice in Chains had more of a heavy metal sound than many of their contemporaries, this album was their second acoustic EP. It was also the first EP to ever debut at number one!
Alice in Chains featured Jerry Cantrell on guitars and vocals, Mike Inez on bass and vocals, Sean Kinney on percussion, and frontman Layne Staley on lead vocals. Kinney and Cantrell formed the group in 1987 with Staley on vocals and original bassist Mike Starr. Starr would leave the group in 1993 to be replaced by former Ozzy Osbourne bassist Mike Inez.
The band name came from a glam metal group also named “Alice in Chains” which Layne Staley had been in previously. That group was defunct, so the name was resurrected. The EP was supposed to simply be a few days' break after touring, but that break turned into over two weeks, and “Jar of Flies” was born.

We hope you enjoy this presentation of WHAT THE RIFF?!? and note that Bruce was out this week, and Fan of the Show, Joel Nabors joins us in his place.

Nutshell
This second track from the EP was written by Cantrell, Inez, and Kinney. The song was the opener when the band performed on MTV Unplugged in 1996. The dark lyrics are thought to reflect frustration with fame.
I Stay Away
A departure from many of their pieces due to the use of strings, Staley wrote the lyrics after coming out of rehab. A huge stadium tour was planned after the EP came out, but Staley had relapsed and they had to drop the tour. This song was nominated for Best Hard Rock Performance Grammy in 1995.
No Excuses
This is the big hit from the album that you’ll recognize. Staley and Cantrell create a dissonant vocal duet in this track which also mirrors the dissonance in their relationship. The song became the first Alice in Chains song to hit number 1 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock Tracks. Surprisingly, it was not released as a single at the time.
Don't Follow
This deeper cut was penned by Cantrell, who begins on lead vocals, with Staley joining on harmony. A softer track, this song also drops the percussion and adds a harmonica.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Bed of Roses” by The Indians (from the motion picture "Reality Bites")
The soundtrack to this movie overshadowed the movie itself. Ben Stiller directed and starred in this comedy.

STAFF PICKS:
“Going, Going, Gone” by The Posies
Wayne's staff pick is also a deep cut from the soundtrack to "Reality BItes." The Posies were also from Washington, as was Alice in Chains. The song has a Smithereens feel, and is considered one of the Generation "un-hits." The Posies played with Burt Bacharach for the movie "Ausin Powers: International Man of Mystery."
“Under the Same Sun” by the Scorpions
Rob brings us a softer, deeper cut from the Scorpions. It has an unusual start with a sitar. This is from their 12th studio album. Believe it or not, the Scorpions started way back in 1964, and celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2015. The song is about coming together as one.
“Pincushion” by ZZ Top
Joel Nabors' staff pick features a little ol' band from Texas. This is off of “Antenna,” their 11th album and first with RCA. This would be their last song to chart, and spent four weeks at number 1 on Billboard. “I'm just a pincushion - do everything she ask.”
“Linger” by The Cranberries
Brian brings us an anthem of the 90's. MTV put this alternative song into high rotation at the time. Noel Hogan wrote the music, and the original lyrics were written by Niall Quinn, who was previously the lead singer for The Cranberries. O'Riordan wrote her own lyrics about regret when she joined the group.

COMEDY TRACK:
“Whale and Wasp” by Alice in Chains
We finish off this week by going back to Jar of Flies with this instrumental track.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
43 min
June 22, 2020 1966 - August: Wilson Pickett “The Exciting Wilson Pickett”
While you may think of Motown when you first hear Wilson Pickett, this sound is neither from Detroit or its counterpart from Philadelphia. This is from the deep south with the deep soul of the 2 M's - Memphis and Muscle Shoals. The Exciting Wilson Pickett was Pickett's third studio album and firmly established his credentials as one of the leading lights of Soul music.
Pickett grew up in Alabama, and like many soul singers at the time he got his start in church. He had a contentious relationship with his mother who he described as "the baddest woman in my book." Eventually he went to live with his father - and further honed his singing style - in Detroit.
Many tracks on this album were recorded at Muscle Shoals with a backup band called The Swampers. Lynyrd Skynyrd would cite them as they "were known to pick a song or two." The Swampers would tour with Pickett and form an interracial act during a time when this was unusual..
Wilson Pickett was known by a number of names including "Wild Wilson" or "Wicked Pickett," and was known for his wild lifestyle. He would have a number of difficulties with alcohol and cocaine over the decades, which would put him in trouble with relationships and the law. Wilson Pickett was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991.
Wilson Pickett died of a heart attack in 2006, just weeks shy of his 65th birthday.

The Land of 1,000 Dances
This song was a minor hit in 1963 for Chris, Kenner, but became a top 10 hit for Pickett. While he doesn't name 1,000 dances (and the name of the song never appears in the lyrics), he does name 16 including the Pony, The Mashed Potato, and The Twist. You may remember this song from the movie "Forrest Gump."
Barefootin'
The second track featured in today's podcast is also a remake (originally recorded by Robert Parker), with a faster tempo than the original. Check out that horn section by The Swampers.
99-1/2 Won't Do
This is a slower track based off a gospel track transitioned to a love song. "I got to have all your love, night and day. Not just a little part, but all of your heart, sugar, Ninety-nine and a half just won't do."
In the Midnight Hour
This is a signature song he co-wrote, and also connects with gospel songs - I may meet Jesus soon in the morning, maybe in the midnight hour. This song was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or artistically significant."

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Theme from the television series “Gilligan's Island”
This comedy was current in 1966, but we all remember this from reruns on afternoon TV after school.

STAFF PICKS:
“Over Under Sideways Down” by The Yardbirds
Bruce brings us a song inspired by Rock Around the Clock by Haley and the Comets. It came out as a single in May 1966, and was on the charts at the time. That's Jeff Beck on the lead guitar, and he also plays bass on this track as well.
“Sunny Afternoon” by The Kinks
Rob's staff pick made it to #14 on the Billboard charts. Brothers Ray and Dave Davies formed The Kinks in 1964, and Ray Davies wrote this song. It is about the massive taxes that the British Labour party was pushing out under Harold Wilson.
“You Don't Have to Say You Love Me” by Dusty Springfield
Brian's staff pick features his favorite female vocalist from the 1960's. Springfield heard this tune originally in Italian, and had new lyrics written for it. She cried when she first heard this song with the new lyrics. A number of artists covered this song, including Elvis Presley.
“Sweet Young Thing” by The Chocolate Watchband
Wayne features an American garage band from California, who sing about a Peeping Tom spotting his “sweet young thing” at a party. Wayne found this group off a compilation album called Nuggets: Original Artyfacts from the First Psychedelic Era 1965-1968.

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
“Jeff's Boogie” by The Yardbirds
This instrumental from the B-side of “Over Under Sideways Down” wraps us up this week's podcast.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
27 min
June 15, 2020 1977 - October: E.L.O. “Out of the Blue”
By the time they released their seventh studio album, Out of the Blue, British rock band E.L.O., also known as the Electric Light Orchestra was a successful machine for rock hits with a “Beatleseque Pop” sound. The Beatles connection was not random, as guitarist and founding member Roy Wood wanted to introduce strings, violins, cellos, basses, horns and woodwinds to Rock music, and “pick up where the Beatles left off.” ELO was formed by Wood on guitar, Bev Bevan on drums, and Jeff Lynne on vocals and guitars. Over time Lynne would become synonymous with the group.
Out of the Blue is a double album written by Jeff Lynne in less than a month. He was staying in a chalet in the Swiss Alps and couldn't come up with any songs during several weeks of dreary weather. One day the sun came out, and an incredible burst of creativity came upon Lynne as a result. The album makes extensive use of strings, and also a vocoder to produce unusual sounds. The album was accompanied by a tremendous special effects-laden stage show and tour.
Jeff Lynne acquired the rights to the name Electric Light Orchestra from co-founder Bev Bevan in 1999, and tours as Jeff Lynne's ELO today.
Sit back and enjoy - “there ain't a cloud in sight!”

Turn to Stone
This track opens the album. Jeff Lynne stated in a Rolling Stone interview that this is one of his most favorite songs — he loves the "shuffle beat." It was the first singe from the album, and reached number 13 on the US Billboard chart.
Wild West Hero
This is a deeper cut from the album, with a softer, wistful sound and great harmonies. Westerns were a popular genre when Lynne was growing up. The band's cello player played the honky tonk piano. Supposedly Jeff Lynne wrote this in 4 minutes.
Standin' in the Rain
Side three of the double album is subtitled “Concerto for a Rainy Day,” with four tracks about the weather. This deeper cut leads off the concerto, and you can hear a vocoder about 30 seconds in, with a thunder crackle voicing the words "Concerto for a Rainy Day."
Mr. Blue Sky
This well known song is the final track from “Concerto for a Rainy Day,” at which point the sun comes out. The major key and fast pace give this song an amazingly optimistic feel. Rob wants this played at his funeral — “Never mind I’ll remember you this way.”

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“That's All Right” Elvis Presley
The last concert recorded by The King before his death was broadcast in this month. Elvis had passed two months earlier in August 1977.

STAFF PICKS:
Brick House by The Commodores
Bruce's staff pick started as a jam originated by bassist Ronald LaPread. Producer James Carmichael challenged the band to turn it into a song. Band member William King brought it home and his wife, Shirley Hanna-King wrote the lyrics based off the expression “built like a brick $#@!-house.” Drummer Walter “Clyde” Orange sings lead instead of their normal front man, Lionel Ritchie, because the band thought he had the right funky voice for it.
Strawberry Letter 23 by The Brothers Johnson
Brian keeps up the R&B flavor with this Quincy Jones' produced song. It tells the story of the 23rd love letter between two lovers.
Whips and Furs by The Vibrators
You can count on Wayne for a deeper punk cut. He discovered this on a compilation album. Good new-fashioned rock!
Isn't It Time by The Babys
Rob's staff pick was penned by Babys bass guitarist Jack Conrad and songwriter Ray Kennedy. It is Kennedy's story about falling in love with a Mademoiselle. The song alternates between a soft and hard rock sound, and the chorus goes back and forth between the left and right channels. “I just can't find the answers to the questions that keep going through my mind, Hey Babe...isn't it time?”

INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
The Iron Dream by Hawkwind
We finish off this week's podcast with a prog rock instrumental piece.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
38 min
June 08, 2020 1982 - January: The J. Geils Band ”Freeze Frame”
This tenth studio album by The J. Geils Band would be a departure from their blues rock and mainstream pieces for which they were known in the 70's, and would be their most commercially successful. Freeze Frame took The J. Geils Band from a regional band to international stardom.
The band consisted of John (J.) Geils on guitar, Seth Justman on keyboards, Stephen Bladd on drums, Danny Klein on bass, Peter Wolf on lead vocals, and Richard Salwitz (aka Magic Dick) on harmonica, trumpet, and saxophone. The album was arranged and produced by keyboardist Seth Justman, and all songs were either written or co-written by Justman.
Part funk, part new wave, Freeze Frame has the band teetering on the experimental edge. Unfortunately the band would not be able to hold up. Front man Peter Wolf left in 1983 because “they wanted to continue in a pop-techno way. It wasn't my thing.” (per Wikipedia). They would record one more album with Seth Justman on lead vocals, then disband in 1985.
There are a lot of hits off this album, and most of the songs will transport you back to a period in the early 80's where MTV was just beginning to “Take Off.”
Join us now before your blood runs cold, and your memory has just been sold!

Freeze Frame
Peter Wolf and Seth Justman wrote this one, and it is the lead song off the album. A freeze frame is a still image taken from a video, and the song uses a number of photography and film terms to tell the story of an obsession with a girl. “test trip, proof sheet love is hard to find.”
Rage in the Cage
This one was not released as a single, but it still got air play, and you may remember the driving harmonica jam. It tells the story of a guy who gets laid off, feels trapped in his town, and only finds relief in his transistor radio. “It don't take a PhD to know I'm goin' nowhere fast. I've got to move - I'm on the move. It don't take much to see this town is livin' in the past. They all just seem to wanna tie me down. Let me hear that radio!”
Flamethrower
This song was the B-side to “Freeze Frame.” It didn't hit the top 40, but it made it to #25 on the R&B charts. The song is about a woman who punches the clock in a blue collar job and cuts loose at night.
Centerfold
This is the big hit off the album, and the track that changed The J. Geils band seemingly overnight. The bad had been a pretty big thing in Boston and Detroit, but they landed on the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine, and on an opening slot touring with The Rolling Stones after this song came out.

ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
“Arthurs Theme” by Christopher Cross
Dudley Moore's comedy film “Arthur” was in the cinemas at this time.

STAFF PICKS:
“My Girl (Gone, Gone, Gone)” by Chilliwack
Rob brings us the first top 40 US hit by a Canadian rock band named after the sixth largest city in British Columbia! Front man and lead guitarist Bill Henderson said they took the name even though none of the band members were from that city. They liked the way the name sounded like a First Nation word, which fit with the sound that the band was striving to achieve.
“Trouble” by Lindsey Buckingham
Brian's staff pick comes from the Fleetwood Mac guitarist and singer's debut solo album, "Law and Order." Mick Fleetwood contributes to this album on the drums, though Buckingham decided to loop a handful of measures of the drums throughout the song. Though it was a departure from Fleetwood Mac, you still have the feel of that group.
“I'll Fall In Love Again” by Sammy Hagar
Wayne's staff pick features the Red Rocker after his Montrose days, and prior to his time in Van Halen. This song chronicles a man moving on from a broken relationship. "It's alright with me now, I'll get back up somehow. And with a little luck, I'm bound to win - I'll fall in love again."
“Tora, Tora, Tora (Out with the Boys)” by Rod Stewart
Bruce finishes off our staff picks with this 6th single from Rod Stewart's eleventh studio album,“Tonight I'm Yours.” Stewart makes a return to rock after his departure to disco in the late 70's. "I wanna talk about motorbikes, cars and things. No sophistication or designer jeans. I'm no angel, but I know what I like - a little rough and tumble on a Friday night."

COMEDY TRACK:
“Take Off” by Bob and Doug McKinsey
Geddy Lee lends his vocal talents to this track from SCTV's sketch comedians from the Great White North, played by Dave Thomas and Rick Moranis.
Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?”
NOTE: To adjust the loudness of the music or voices, you may adjust the balance on your device. VOICES are stronger in the LEFT channel, and MUSIC is stronger on the RIGHT channel.
Please follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/whattheriffpodcast/, and message or email us with what you'd like to hear, what you think of the show, and any rock-worthy memes we can share.
Of course we'd love for you to rate the show in your podcast platform!
**NOTE: What the Riff?!? does not own the rights to any of these songs and we neither sell, nor profit from them. We share them so you can learn about them and purchase them for your own collections.
44 min

About What the Riff Next Gen

From the publisher's feed

Every episode of “WHAT THE RIFF NEXT GEN” brings a ROCK AND ROLL album that debuted on the U.S. Billboard charts during a random month between 1995 and 2005. Four Classic Rock fans discuss the artist and 4 tracks from the album as it plays in the background. Then we riff on 3 additional “staff picks” of other artists that were also on the charts during that month and year. You’ll hear Classic Rock bands that were still producing new work, as well as some newer Alternative and Grunge bands that were gaining momentum during this Millennium Y2K Period. We encourage you to find and purchase the tracks and albums from Apple Music, Spotify or your other favorite music service. Please subscribe so you don’t miss any release! In addition to “Next Gen” you can search our ORIGINAL “What the Riff?!?” episodes (1-373) covering 1965 - 1995. We also invite you to follow us and learn more about us @whattheriff on Facebook.

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