EarWax

One more before the EarWax crew takes a summer break, so let's make it iconic, yeah?Born This Way. Lady Gaga. You already know it. Now come learn about Mother Monster and one of most "most" albums of the 2010s. Hilary and Cody try to get their arms around an album that is a relentless onslaught of pop, helmed by an artiste who makes no bones about pushing to be a superstar.Whether gay, straight, or bi, lesbian, transgender life, Born This Way was made to be cranked waaaaaaaay up.Thanks for hanging with us since we've come back, and we will see you all on September 4th!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Whatever will you do without us talking about Music This Week for the next couple of months? Well, don't worry about that right now. Instead, tune into what we've got going on one more time before our summer break!Spencer hits us up with some new releases, and stories about a Tarantino/Kylie Minogue collab, the resurgence of The Cardigans (hell yeah), and plenty of other goodies.We got the news. We got the tunes. Once more as we head into summer!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

1989 was a year soooo fine in hip-hop. Queen Latifah was right at the top of the class with her debut album All Hail the Queen.DJ Mark the 45 King chose some elite samples to pair with Queen Latifah's buttery smooth flows. Packed with empowering bars, and what's that?...an electro club jam? Well, I'll be.Hilary and Cody marvel at the production of this album, the elegance of those who grace the mic, and the total radiance of Queen Latifah!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Hey hey hey we've got some new jams and some stories to cover on Music This Week.Spencer dives into the collab between Olivia Rodrigo and Robert Smith (so dang cool), the Knicks winning the chip, and all the hot cuts coming out today.Muuuuuuusic. Thiiiiiis. Weeeeeeeek.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Is your rage at an all time high right now? Not sure where the outlet is? This record is your answer, and this week's episode will tell you all about it!The Dicks' Kill From the Heart is 0% subtle. All gas. Gary Floyd's pointed lyrics (he wrote all the songs, mostly, except the ones he didn't write) mix with the fiery energy of the Buxf Parrot, Glen Taylor and Pat Deason. The concoction is volatile, but you can't help but coming back for more.Cody and Hilary hang on for dear life talking about throwing liver into the crowd, why the dobro works on a hardcore record, and just how much Dicks emphasize precisely where they stand.It rocks. It educates. It confronts. It punches you in the face and tells you it's gonna do it again. Kill From the Heart lets you know...the Dicks are coming.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Plenty of hot hot hot new release and some goss goss goss...eh, I don't love that one, but whatever, we're keeping it. Spencer leads the way, considering the new vanguard of pop stars, and giving flowers to a pop star making their way back to the spotlight.What's coming out this week? Find out here. What's the music news this week? Also find out here.It's Music This Week. Booyah.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Power ballads forever! That's our official take, especially after this week's episode of EarWax.More. MORE. MOOOAAAAR! That's the theme and vibe of Céline Dion's Falling Into You. With producers galore and vocals that soar, this record is ALL. Simply ALL, and then some. Motorcycles, intrigue, Meat Loaf, David Letterman? Oh, it all connects, baby. And the through line is Queen m'fn Céline.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Spencer has all the new releases fit to print, and all the print fit to discuss on Music This Week.Paul McCartney's press tour rolls on. Backrooms is crushing it, and dropping new Boards of Canada tracks. And you know Vince Staples is gonna have something hot coming out.All that, more, and then a bit more even. Check out what we got goin' on, on Music This Week!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

If landmark records that are kinda remixes and also kinda historically murky are your jams, then look no further. The EarWax crew has you covered this week, chopping it up about the dub classic King Tubbys Meets Rockers Uptown.Cody and Hilary discuss very pressing matters such as the various Augustus Pablos, the coolness of names (and there are plenty of cool names on this album), and the unbelievable genius that was King Tubby.This record is on the ground floor of remixing culture, and its influence has spread far, far beyond reggae/dub. The players on the master tapes that Augustus Pablo brought in are a laundry list legends in the scene. To have them all on one album, and throw in King Tubbys immense talent as well...man, what an embarrassment of riches!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Who wants moooooaaaar AI in their pop culture? We don't! But we do want to share Music This Week!Spencer guides us through the new releases, as well as stories about an AI Ozzy that is totally gonna be great, Drake's place atop the charts, and Stephen Colbert's place atop our hearts.We've got takes; they may not be hot, but they are Music This Week.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

We love showing L.A. love. And Los Angeles (and more specifically, East Los Angeles) loves Los Lobos! How Will the Wolf Survive? was the group's breakthrough record, after finding a home inside the Sunset Strip punk scene of the 80s. The fascinating mix of rock, country, traditional Mexican music, and everything in between gives Los Lobos the keys to the doors of many genres.A smart, sharp record that cooks as much as it educates, How Will the Wolf Survive? took Los Lobos from playing sets alongside the Blasters and the Germs into the national conscience. And they have not only survived, but they are still absolutely killing it to this day.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Did you miss us? We thought of you the whole time, we promise. Well, we're back now with more Music This Week!Spencer gives us the low down on what's coming out today, and then we get into the oh so wonderful news about AI in music. Huzzah!But seriously, Jack Antonoff has a great take on being a musician.Doechii and Lady Gaga causing a kerfuffle for their song...kinda not causing a kerfuffle? Only 37 million views, what are we the minor major leagues?All that, and so much (well, a little) more!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Calm. Vibes. Futuristic. Ethereal. Brilliant. This is Brian Eno. And this is Ambient 1: Music for Airports - the focus of this week's episode of EarWax.Where do you go after Roxy Music? Oh, I don't know, how about a crazy run of incredible solo albums leading up to this one? Eno was already basically a legend, so why not just try something out? Recovering from a car wreck, my guy decided to spearhead a whole new genre. And so he did, and he channeled his...interesting take on airports into the glory we hear on record.Oh and also Hilary recounts the whole history of muzak (and Muzak) while Cody is amazed at it all. It's a scene, an episode, and f'n great record!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Kick ass music. I could really stop there and it would be a perfectly apt episode description. Hiatus Kaiyote's Choose Your Weapon is where we're headed for this week's episode of EarWax!A mix of jazz and soul and...video game music?...Hiatus Kaiyote takes us on a journey through time signatures, wisdom, and the mystical. Ohhh, and do you like Studio Ghibli? Well, so do they, and there may be some references buried (in that it's a literal song title).This is a smart record, a dense record that will have you coming back for more helpings. Choose Your Weapon delivers - lock into what you want, and enjoy the ride.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Well, well, well, what have we here? New Releases, you say? But wait, there's more! We've also got news about music, this week. We've got pop stars going country. We've got lost and found Coachella gear. And we've got Kanye shows being shuttered. What more do you want? Well, if you want more, let us know what more you want!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

You are not ready for this one. You think you are, and you probably are and I'm just hyperbolizing, but you're not ready for this one. EarWax. Usher. Confessions.Already on top of the world, Usher mixed messiness and sexiness and decided he was going to reign supreme in the 2000s. And so he did. Club bangers, salacious storytelling, and hooks that haven't left our heads since 2004.Confessions did everything right by talking about doing everything wrong.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

More new releases hot off the vinyl pressing plant and coming at ya this week!Spencer and crew also talk about Justin Bieber's Coachella set (can you predict whether or not Cody will be a fan of the idea?), the Rock Hall inductees, and whether or not Sade is going to grace us with her presence and a performance when the time comes!Intrigue, opinions, and music...It's Music This Week.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Truly one of the most bonkers albums we have tackled on the show, this week the EarWax crew is taking on the genre of "Japanese funk-fusion rock based on an Italian children's picture book." That's right, Masayoshi Takanaka's "Rainbow Goblins"!A story about rainbow eating goblins with zero analogy attached at all, Takanaka makes maximalism razor sharp. Soaring guitar melodies backed with insanely tight grooves, all telling the story of seven color goblins who were just so hungry they HAD to invade paradise and eat the best rainbow of all time.Does Cody maybe side with the goblins? Well, you'll have to listen to find out exactly why he does! (Or does he?!)Shout-out to the Internet Archive, where you can find this album.The Budokan show? Heck yes we have it! Right here.Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Alllllllright dudes and dudettes, we've got another batch of new releases and takes on music news!Led by the inimitable Spencer, we take on the latest development with the Michael Jackson biopic (and how much we just looooove biopics. Can we get 20 more in the pipeline please?), Kanye's unfortunately triumphant return, and Afroman's triumphant triumph.Wanna hear what's coming out? Wanna hear the music news? Tune. In.It's Music...This Week.

Hey, look at us, 100 episodes. How about that? And what's a 100th episode without a legendary guest spot? Pfffffffft, we got it covered. John Flansburgh and John Linnell of They Might Be Giants dropped by the show to talk about their new record "The World Is to Dig", as well as touching on their illustrious career of over forty years!From their approach to arrangements, winning a Grammy for a sitcom theme, and a few historical side streets (shout-out William Allen White), these guys were thoughtful, kind, and cool as hell. The new record is a total jam, and it was a pleasure to hear it early and chop it up with John F. and John L.Huge thanks to They Might Be Giants, and thank you all who have stayed with us for 100 episodes!Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Have we reached rock bottom? Well, Music This Week maaaay just have the answer, or at least an opinion!Spencer guides the crew through new release from Arlo Parks and others, before diving into stories about Bob Dylan's bizarre Patreon content (I hate it. - Cody), Eurovision, and a lovely look at Bob's Burgers.There was no mention of Sexistential in the room, so I'll have to bury it here! Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Plenty to talk about in this week's installment of Music This Week. We got new releases galore, some old faces, some new faces, some aliens?Jay-Z talked about hip-hop beefs, so we talk about him talking about hip-hop beefs. Priced out of concerts? Psh, same, brother, same. Let's dump on Ticketmaster and LiveNation some more!Spencer guides us through the headlines, and we give him our opines...(Eh, I don't love that joke, but I'm keeping it in.)Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Buckle the hell up, or down, or sideways, or however your buckle buckles. We are one away from triple digits here on EarWax. And the 99th episode is one for the books.The Runaways are a moment in rock history, and one that brings up some inconvenient truths about an era we looooooooove to look at through rose-tinted glasses.For all of the many, many obstacles foisted upon them, the Runaways self-titled album is primo cut ROCK. Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

We are back with a new installment of Music This Week! Did we miss last week? We did. Do we have a very compelling reason for that? Oh, we do, but more on that later!Spencer guides the crew through a discussion on Ticketmaster/Livenation's backroom dealings with the DOJ, pirates pirating Johnny Blue Skies, and a slew of new releases that we recommend you dive into!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Country crooners get no better than the legendary Patsy Cline, and that is just who we are covering this week on EarWax!"Showcase" is exactly that, a tour de force for one of country music's top vocalists of all time. Recorded right on the heels of a near-fatal car crash, and accompanied by the Jordanaires, this record contains versions of her two massive hits - Crazy and Walkin' After Midnight - along with gorgeous tracks that swoon, swing, and lilt.Patsy Cline persevered through a tremendous amount of adversity in her career. "Showcase" is a great example of an artist defying the odds and cementing their status among the hall of greats!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Time for a little (read: a whole hell of a lot) neeeeon sleaze. The EarWax crew tackles one of synth pop's greatest albums - Soft Cell's "Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret"!Marc Almond and David Ball combined into a force of nature, marrying low and high tech into a shimmering rawness that sounds and feels relevant today.Their label didn't understand them, some of the public tried to condemn them, but Soft Cell understood precisely who they were playing for, and the duo helped showcase a side of England that the buttoned-up rank and file preferred to ignore. "Non-Stop Erotic Cabaret" is catchy, weird, vulnerable, and vulgar. For all of those reasons and more, it is to be played loudly while dancing!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

What's happening in music this week, you wonder? Psh, how about you tune in right here to find out. Spencer guides the crew through plenty of new releases, as well as an examination of this year's Rock Hall nominees, and the resurgence of Labi Siffre!We got a few opinions, some excitement, and a whole lotta chopping it up!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Need some immaculate vibes? We got plenty of them right here on this week's episode of EarWax.How does one make a record this great? And how do they do it on their first try? Air was in some kind of zone, churning out a timeless piece of retro-futuristic electro-pop. It moves, it grooves, and it makes you sad, happy, horny, and sexy all at once.Moon Safari feels outside of time, and makes you want to stay in that space forever.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

The EarWax crew glide through the groovy, melodic, gorgeous, towering artistic statement of Brittany Howard's first solo album, "Jaime."After a meteoric rise to fame with Alabama Shakes, Brittany Howard felt that her next move needed to be extremely personal. She had so much to say, and wanted to bear the sole responsibility of crafting that statement.The result speaks for itself (although we talk about it, too). "Jaime" is a beautiful tribute, a tapestry of sound, and a timeless record.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Did you love Music This Week, last week? Well, here is Music This Week for this week! Some upcoming releases, some talk about PinkPantheress, and reflecting on the late career bump of Labi Siffre.So much excellence, all distilled into just a few minutes!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

How about a little something new for the folks, eh? We're dropping a weekly segment where Spencer gives us upcoming releases, as well as some music headlines. Along with Hilary and Cody, this is a quick drop in to prep you for the new music that's coming out, and to keep your thumb on the pulse of what's happening in the wide weird world of music!This week I'm told there is extensive mention of Peppa Pig...so you've got that to look forward to. Enjoy!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

EarWax has retuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrnnnned! We are back and relaunching with a certified classic that is a whole lot of styles mixed up and spat out in the way that only Big Boi and Andre 3000 can.OutKast had already let it be known that the South had something to say, and here on Stankonia do they say it better than ever. Weird, hip, boundary breaking and game-changing, this album only further cemented the duo as the kings of the South.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodEmail: [email protected]:Produced by Hilary Miller, Claudia Rivera Tinsley, Spencer Belden, and Cody TinsleyEdited by Claudia Rivera TinsleyAll original music written and performed by Spencer BeldenArtwork by Hilary Miller

Did you miss us so much that you couldn't stand to see us leave for even one week? Bro, same! So how about an awesome interview with one of the coolest bands out there today?Charlie Wayne and Lewis Evans of Black Country, New Road dropped by to talk about their new album "Forever Howlong," and share some of the music that has inspired them along the way.These guys absolutely rule, and it was a total pleasure chopping it up with them. A huge thank you to Lewis and Charlie, and another big thanks to the rest of the group for putting out such a killer record.Check out "Forever Howlong", and go see Black Country, New Road on tour!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

We don't always cover compilation albums, but when we do, we make sure they are the most glorious. Such is the case with this week's episode of EarWax!Hilary and Cody dive into the cool power/punk-pop of Buzzcocks. A greatest hits album made for a band about to tour the United States...where they had very little following. Singles Going Steady is a literal timeline of the band up until that point, and showcases the band's penchant for hooks over politics. The perfect marriage of pop and punk coming together to form a banger of a compilation.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Good gahd! This week the EarWax crew hits the One and covers the Hardest Working Man in Show Business. Mr. Please Please himself, James Brown!Whatchu know about betting on yourself? James Brown told his label a live record was the sauce, and when they said no, he financed it himself.The legendary Apollo, a raucous crowd, and James Brown's electrifying performance collide to create this blistering time capsule of 1962."Live at the Apollo" captures James Brown and the Famous Flames in their element. At 300 shows/year, they were razor sharp, and delivered a vicious set that stands the test of time.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

You want some feel good tunes? Oh, we got 'em this week. How about a little Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass!Swingin' 60s meets the coolest square sounds out there. With a lineup that included members of LA's legendary Wrecking Crew, this album bops and bounces along breezily.Herb Alpert is a dude we should all be glad is as successful as he is. His investment into music education, and his humility at yet another resurgence in popularity rank him high on our favorite artist's we've covered.Whipped Cream & Other Delights is in every garage sale, clearance bin, and attic collection ever. And why? Because it rules, obviously.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Pop meets pretension (and we mean that as a positive) this week on EarWax!Hilary and Cody dissect Stereolab's deceptively catchy "Dots and Loops." Beneath the pop coating lies lyrics warning about the modern age, loneliness, and wars of many iterations.Stereolab's ambition is their calling card, and it is on full display on this record. Never ones to shy away from marrying catchiness with headiness, they bask in both elements to create something both as functional and memorable as "Dots and Loops."Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Lock in to a groove and turn the vibes up to "Immaculate," this week the EarWax crew dives into The Roots' "Things Fall Apart."Cody and Hilary touch on the Soulquarians, and the sessions that resulted in some of the most stunning work of this era. "Things Fall Apart" was the result of two batches of sessions - one a host of Philadelphia community members and friend so the group. The next at Electric Lady Studios, with folks like Lady B, Mos Def, and J Dilla in the room."Things Fall Apart" is one of those records that you've heard, even if you haven't. Its thumbprint is all over contemporary hip-hop, soul, jazz, and R&B. With the group ready to break through, they created something that did more than break them, it locked them in as legends.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Whiskey River take our minds right into one of the most consequential country records ever made! Cody and Hilary dig into "Shotgun Willie," the album that Willie considered as him "clearing his throat." With the man and the legend already firmly established with a handful of country standards under his belt, here the myth began.Nashville didn't understand him, so Willie headed to Austin to hang out with the weirdos and the hippies. There he found his place, got cozy, and proceeded to spearhead a movement that would rewrite the book about what country music is.Willie Nelson is an American legend, and "Shotgun Willie" is where we get our first glimpse of him fully in his comfort zone.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

*cough cough cough cough* Bow down to the Lords of Darkness and the Gods of Heavy Metal - Black Sabbath!Cody and Hilary try and fail to approach Sabbath's "Master of Reality" with some semblance of restrain, but what are we really talking about? This record crushes from front to back.From the opening riff to the finality of Into the Void, Black Sabbath's third record set the template for stoner metal, doom metal, sludge metal, (insert adjective) metal. They are gods. They are Black Sabbath.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

We're only happy when...we're covering a kick ass band and record like Garbage's self-titled!Hilary and Cody discuss the fascinating chemistry that was initially pitched (derisively) as "three producers and a girl." Hey, maybe that is true, but man does that combo rock. Granted, it helps when that girl is Shirley f'n Manson.Garbage crafted, or uncrafted, pop music. Deconstructed hooks pieced together to create a brilliant noise.Oh, and their first live show has a connection to Gwar...Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Bow at the feet of the Queen of the Divas - Mariah Carey!Cody and Hilary discuss "The Emancipation of Mimi," an album that was made after Mariah had taken a few personal and professional body blows.Being the champ she is, she took it all in, and spat it back in her critics' faces with a record that is equal parts vocal gymnastics lesson and absolute party."The Emancipation of Mimi" is Mariah Carey shrugging off all the baggage, and deciding it's time to have fun while letting the haters know that she isn't going anywhere.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Look at you, now look at us. How you like that? EarWax is going K-pop this week, and I don't know if we'll ever go back. Hilary and Cody cover BLACKPINK's appropriately-named "The Album." The system that has produced some of the biggest music in the world - the South Korean idol system - is a fascinating study in manufacturing celebrity. At its apex sit four women who have conquered the world, and this record was their international announcement that the top of the pops runs through South Korea.Twenty-four lean minutes of non-stop bangers, "The Album" is a party record released at a time when everything else looked awfully bleak. BLACKPINK made sure that we had something to dance to, and we have not stopped since.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

"Blondie is a Group" was a pin campaign put together by Blondie's manager as a way to cover his own screwup by picking the iconic photo for this week's album - "Parallel Lines." (PS: It didn't work and he was fired shortly after. Oops.)We all know Blondie is a group, and we also know the core of Chris Stein and Debbie Harry have given us some absolute bangers. After two records, the label wondered how they could put this group of meddling kids (loosely defined) on the top of the charts.Their solution was producer Mike Chapman. Does he come across as a bit of a jerk? Yes, resoundingly. Did the band turn in their most critically and commercially successful album to date under his production? Also, yes, resoundingly.With classics such as "One Way or Another" and "Heart of Glass," it would be hard for the label to go wrong picking a single...Find out how they did just that, and a ton more about "Parallel Lines," on this week's episode of EarWax!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

The greats seize the moment, and Tracy Chapman did exactly that right after the release of her self-titled album, and the subject of this week's episode!Cody and Hilary discuss Tracy Chapman's journey to reluctant stardom. Never seeking anything more than to have her songs heard, this debut reflects the quiet confidence that draws so many to her work."Fast Car" is legendary, "Talkin' Bout a Revolution" was a theme song for a literal revolution, and "Behind the Wall" is a devastating, gorgeous piece.When Wembley Stadium called, Tracy Chapman was ready for the moment. No frills, just music, and a message.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Mysteries abound this week on EarWax! Never has "the man, the myth, the legend" rang truer than when we dive into "Who Is William Onyeabor?"A bizarre mix of funk, soul, and porto-techno, this record is a collection of songs pulled from Onyeabor's brief but prolific discography. His life and career remain largely enigmatic, due in no small part to his own efforts.We ask "why" and "how," because we want so badly to understand the context for which such forward-thinking music sprang. Ultimately, "Who Is William Onyeabor?" provides very little answers to those questions, but it serves a greater purpose - it grooves.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Peace, and humptiness forever! A mantra we should all do well to abide by. How about a little lumpy oatmeal and sort-of concept album this week?Digital Underground is just one of those groups that are okay being a little weird, a lot goofy, and very (oh so very) phonky. Shock G and dudes like Schmoovy Schmoov, Chopmaster J, and Money B all brought Parliament into hip-hop.Sex Packets is hyper horny, major vibes, and only kind of actually about sex packets, which may or may not be real. Ask NASA, but maybe NASA lies?!Check out the episode to hear Cody and Hilary break down this classic!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

We all stand on the shoulders of giants, the ghosts of those that came before. But some shoulders carry more weight than others. Billie Holiday is a foundation upon which decades and generations of music has been built.Hilary and Cody discuss Lady Day's penultimate album "Lady in Satin." In many ways, it feels like this record is a metaphorical retelling of her own life. Struggle, hardship, perseverance, and victory, all blended up and poured out through that voice. She sounds different than we're used to, but unmistakably Billie Holiday.On "Lady in Satin," you can feel Lady Day rise to the occasion once more to give us this testament to determination and sheer talent.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

It's quite simple, really. Challenge authority, refuse to back down, and never be complacent. Dead Kennedys brings all of that to this week's episode of EarWax!Cody and Hilary discuss San Francisco's charged political history, and how folks who don't like power structures and institutions there are more than willing to turn out and turn up. In the middle of all the turbulence is the punk scene, and Dead Kennedys are the standard-bearers. Brash, uncompromising, and sharp as tacks, Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables is a force of nature. It will blow the doors off your apartment, and put you out on the streets marching in protest, right where we all belong.Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis

Johnny Cash - the Man in Black - was almost more myth than man. But what it is undeniably true is the power of this week's record: At Folsom Prison.With his career hanging in the balance, Cash delivered a performance that deftly walked the line (pun fully intended) of addressing the harsh realities of his audience with moments of levity.Cash and the Tennessee Three are on fire, and the set lists contained timeless classics from his catalog to that point. And yet, the most storied track may be one that isn't his, but from an inmate at Folsom...Check out the episode, and like, subscribe, and share the show with folks who should know the story behind this iconic album!Thanks for listening! Check out everything we have going on via the info below:Instagram: @earwaxpodTikTok: @earwaxpodAmoeba on Instagram:@amoebahollywood@amoebasf@amoebaberkeleyQuestions, Suggestions, Corrections (surely we're perfect): [email protected]:Edited by Claudia Rivera-TinsleyAll transition music written and performed by Spencer Belden"EarWax Main Theme" performed by Spencer Belden feat. David Otis