B-Side Banter

🔥 Welcome back to B-Side Banter! 🔥I’m joined once again by What’s The Buzz, and this episode is PACKED with hip-hop and pop chaos. We’re breaking down 2025’s most polarizing albums — from Freddie Gibbs’ “Alfredo II” and Tyler, The Creator’s “Don’t Tap The Glass,” to Lil Wayne’s forgotten rock experiment and Playboi Carti’s bloated flop.We also debate whether 2025 has been a career-defining year or a creative collapse for some of music’s biggest names. Did Travis Scott sabotage his own rollout to spite Pusha T? Why did Taylor Swift’s new album fall flat? And is Drake’s “Iceman” going to save his legacy?Plus, we share our favorite albums and artist Mount Rushmores — from Gorillaz and Outkast to Jay-Z’s 4:44 and Lil Wayne’s legacy.If you love hip-hop debates, album breakdowns, and brutally honest takes, you’re in the right place. Hit that LIKE & SUBSCRIBE button and let us know in the comments: What’s been the best (and worst) album of 2025 so far? 👀

Some collectors chase hype — others chase history.In this episode of Pressed, I’m joined by Smitty from Smitty Soul Shack — a lifelong R&B, jazz, and soul collector — to talk about why classic records still move us in ways modern music can’t.We dig into:How his grandfather’s jazz collection sparked a lifelong passion 🎷Why soul and R&B hit differently (hint: it’s the church roots)The magic of bargain-bin finds and crate-digging storiesHow vinyl collecting has changed — the good and the badThe story behind a mysterious Stevie Wonder note that might involve soul legend Melba Moore 👀Tips for new collectors, and why the secret to enjoying vinyl is simply playing the record👉 What’s a classic record that still gives you chills every time you play it? Drop it in the comments — and don’t forget to check out Smitty’s podcast, Music is the Glue.

🌍 Welcome back to B-Side Banter! 🌍This week I’m joined by Jakk from A1234, one of the internet’s sharpest voices on global music discovery. We dive deep into the world’s hidden music gems—everything from the “Polish Beatles” to the wild underground scene of Japanese jazz punk.Jakk shares must-listen albums from every continent, stories of overlooked legends like Johnny Alf (the real pioneer of bossa nova) and Miriam Makeba (fighting apartheid with music), and even why Carol of the Bells was originally a Ukrainian protest song. We also explore what’s next in world music—could Italo Disco or Chinese rap shows be the next K-pop?If you love music history, global discovery, and finding artists before they blow up, this is the episode for you.🔥 Hit that LIKE & SUBSCRIBE button and tell us in the comments: Which country’s music scene do you want to explore next?

Few brands in vinyl spark as much debate as Crosley. In this episode of Pressed, I sit down with Caitlin and Barrett from Crosley Record Players to talk about the brand’s history, clear the air on whether Crosley Cruisers really ruin your records, and dive into how inclusivity and accessibility are shaping the future of vinyl.We also cover:• The surprising 100+ year history of Crosley, from radios to cars to record players• Whether the Cruiser is truly dangerous for your vinyl — or if it’s just a myth• Why the Cruiser matters as an affordable entry point for new collectors• Crosley’s national high school Cruiser contest and how it’s inspiring the next generation of music lovers• An exclusive look at their brand-new Cruiser CD player👉 What was your first record player? Was it a Crosley? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to know your story.

🔥 Djo’s moment is here. 🔥In this episode of B-Side Banter, I sit down with Kelly from Djo Daily to unpack the meteoric rise of Joe Keery’s music career. We trace his journey from Post Animal to Stranger Things fame, the viral breakout of “End of Beginning,” and why The Crux Deluxe might be the perfect album of the summer.We debate whether Djo should be considered a musician first, actor second, break down the unique nostalgia of his sound, and even dive into why he’s never released a single music video. Plus, we speculate on Stranger Things’ final season — will Steve Harrington survive?If you love dad rock, fandom deep dives, and discovering the future of indie rock, this one’s for you. Hit LIKE & SUBSCRIBE and let us know in the comments: Where do you rank Djo’s albums? 👀

🔥 One of the biggest names in music podcasting joins B-Side Banter! 🔥In this episode, I sit down with Cole Cuchna, the creator of the acclaimed Dissect podcast, for a deep dive into music, culture, and the art of analysis. Cole opens up about the grind of starting Dissect, why To Pimp a Butterfly changed his life, and how breaking down Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics forced him to reflect on himself.We also explore the polarizing world of Radiohead, Cole’s love for Kid A and In Rainbows, and his thoughts on Daft Punk as one of the most influential duos of our generation. Plus, Cole reveals his personal Mount Rushmore of artists, the albums he thinks will define this century, and why he’s cautious about revisiting Kanye West’s catalog.If you love music deep dives, legendary albums, and conversations that make you rethink the records you thought you knew, you don’t want to miss this one.

Vinyl collecting isn’t the same everywhere — and in Australia, it comes with a unique set of challenges. In this episode of Pressed, I’m joined by Jenny Jamball, an Australian collector, to talk about the struggles of finding pressings down under and her journey as a woman in a male-dominated vinyl community.We get into:• Why records are harder (and more expensive) to find in Australia 🇦🇺• The wild price difference between U.S. and Aussie bins• Jenny’s experience breaking into vinyl as a female collector• How gatekeeping impacts the community — and how to push back• Her favorite first records, most-played albums, desert island pick, and ultimate grail👉 What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a collector? Drop it in the comments — I’d love to hear your story.

🔥 Welcome back to B-Side Banter! 🔥In this episode, I’m joined by Agustina, a rising TikTok creator known for her love of 80s and 90s music — from The Smiths and The Cure to shoegaze, post-punk, and beyond. We dive into the blurred lines between goth and emo, the lasting influence of bands like Smashing Pumpkins, Cocteau Twins, and Depeche Mode, and what makes gothic music feel so grand compared to emo’s angst.We also explore how music connects generations, why Daft Punk’s albums are best experienced as complete works of art, and how artists like Charli XCX and Maggie Rogers are reshaping modern pop. Plus, we tackle music gatekeeping, TikTok hate, and what it really means to be a “true fan.”If you’re into alternative classics, timeless albums, and debates about legacy vs. new waves, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Drop a comment: Do you think older bands should keep releasing new albums? 👀

🔥 Welcome back to B-Side Banter! 🔥In this episode, I’m joined by Matt — better known as FuegoStein, one of the internet’s go-to voices for indie music discovery. We dive deep into the grind of touring for indie artists, why so many struggle to break through, and how merch and vinyl sales often keep them alive.We also break down the cultural impact of Noah Kahan’s Stick Season, the debate over gatekeeping when indie artists go mainstream, and how social media bits, fake beefs, and hot takes can skyrocket a band’s career. From Wednesday, Samia, and Viagra Boys to the endless TikTok beefs shaking up music right now — this one’s packed.If you love discovering new artists, hearing the real side of the music grind, and debating what makes or breaks success today, you’re in the right place. Hit that LIKE & SUBSCRIBE button and join the convo: Should fans stop gatekeeping indie artists? 👀

Welcome back to Pressed! In Episode 2, I’m joined by Giggens—a lifelong vinyl collector and co-manager of Static Era Records in Connecticut.We dive into the journey from being a kid digging through garage sales to managing a record store during the vinyl resurgence. Giggens shares:• How his personal collection grew to 3,000+ records 📀• Wild finds inside jackets (money, notes, even weed 😅)• The coolest 5,000-record collection the store ever bought• Thoughts on Crosley players and why beginners shouldn’t be shamed• Advice for anyone starting their own collectionStick around for the Quick Fire Vinyl Q&A, where Giggens reveals his first vinyl, most-played record, desert island pick, and ultimate grail.👉 If you’re ever in Milford, CT, check out Static Era Records—and remember to support your local record shops wherever you are.

🔥 Hip-hop is in flux — and we’re diving ALL the way in. 🔥In this episode of B-Side Banter, I’m joined by music reviewer Tyson to break down the current state of rap in 2025—from the cultural aftershocks of the Drake vs. Kendrick beef, to Tyler, The Creator’s surprising new direction, to the underground wave that’s reshaping the sound of the genre.We talk about what’s real vs. what’s hype, the artists carrying the torch for authentic lyricism, and whether rap’s mainstream future belongs to superstars or the underground. Plus, we dig into how audiences are redefining what “success” looks like in hip-hop today.If you’re here for raw takes, deep conversations, and no-fluff music commentary, hit that LIKE & SUBSCRIBE button and drop your thoughts in the comments 👇 Who do you think is defining rap’s future right now?

Welcome to the very first episode of Pressed! 🎶In this debut, I sit down with Jason from Groovline Vinyl to explore how a record collection is never really finished—it grows, shifts, and reshapes with every stage of life. Jason shares how his collection exploded during the pandemic, why he started buying bulk collections and reselling records, and how his love for vinyl eventually led him into DJing.We also dive into:• The thrill of finding 50 records for $100 on Facebook Marketplace• How reselling can actually build community and help others discover records• Why condition matters when you’re DJing with vinyl• The importance of building your collection, not just following trendsStick around for the Quick Fire Vinyl Q&A, where Jason reveals his first record, his most-played record, his desert island pick, and his ultimate vinyl grail.👉 How has your collection changed over time? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your story.

🔥 Welcome back to B-Side Banter! 🔥 In Episode 26, I’m joined by Alex Mars—better known as Vinyl by Mars, one of the top voices in pop music commentary across TikTok, Instagram, and Substack.We dive deep into:🎶 Taylor Swift’s upcoming album The Life of a Showgirl — will her return to Max Martin & Shellback mark another 1989-level era?🎶 The rise of Gen Z pop girlies (Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, Chapel Roan, and more) — are they reshaping the landscape of modern pop?🎶 Justin Bieber’s surprise R&B project Swag — how Dijon and McGee’s influence might be bigger than Bieber himself.🎶 Vinyl culture, the comeback of physical music, and how Gen Z is fueling it.🎶 Plus: Alex’s 5 must-listen albums and his personal Mount Rushmore of pop artists.If you love music reviews, industry deep dives, and cultural conversations, you’re in the right place. Hit that LIKE & SUBSCRIBE button, and let us know in the comments: Which new pop artist are you most excited about right now?

🔥 Erika is here for B-Side Banter Ep. 26, and she’s bringing the HEAT with some of the hottest music opinions you’ll hear all year.We dive into her love for Pink Floyd, The Strokes, and Arctic Monkeys, her obsession with Lana Del Rey & Björk, and her very strong feelings about Alex Warren, Addison Rae, Sabrina Carpenter, and Noah Kahan. From arguing why older music hits harder to picking 5 albums everyone must hear, this episode is a rollercoaster of music nostalgia, bold opinions, and hilarious tangents.💬 Agree or disagree with Erika’s takes? Drop your hottest music opinion in the comments!

In this episode of B-Side Banter, Tyler interviews Joe Donnelly, a music reviewer known for his engaging content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Joe shares his journey from radio to creating music review videos, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in music criticism. They discuss the reactions to Joe's ranking videos, particularly those on Radiohead and Pink Floyd, and the challenges of engaging with passionate fanbases. The conversation also touches on the cultural impact of Charlie XCX's 'Brat' album, the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne, and the vibrant state of Irish music today. Joe highlights emerging Irish artists and the balance between discovering new music while appreciating classic favorites.

On this episode of B-Side Banter, Tyler sits down with collector, curator, and music historian Smitty to talk about the crossroads of soul, hip-hop, jazz, and country—and why certain genres seem to resist blending.They cover everything from:• Smitty’s first jazz record at age 12 🎷• His complicated relationship with country music 🤠• Forgotten legends like Jackie Wilson & Frankie Lymon 🎤• Why the 80s might be underrated for pop 🕺• Industry plants, indie success, and the TikTok effect 🤖• Whether Michael Jackson or Prince takes the crown 👑It’s a mix of nostalgia, critique, and love for music’s past, present, and future.🟡 New episodes every week — subscribe to join the convo.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, Tyler interviews epotty, a passionate content creator and Tyler the Creator superfan. They discuss the recent surprise album release by Tyler the Creator, epotty's unique approach to music content creation, and the significance of Tyler's evolution as an artist. The conversation also touches on the impact of Odd Future, the characters Tyler has embodied in his music, and the influence he has had on the hip-hop genre. epotty shares her concert experience, favorite songs, and thoughts on the current state of music discourse, emphasizing the importance of nuanced discussions in the age of social media.

In this engaging conversation, Sal Luciano and Tyler delve into the current landscape of hip-hop, focusing on the dynamics between major artists like Drake and Kendrick Lamar. They discuss the buzz surrounding Drake's recent activities, including his upcoming OVO Fest and speculations about his new album. The conversation also touches on the impact of public perception on artists, the humor and charisma of Drake, and the surprise album drop by Justin Bieber. Throughout the discussion, they explore the complexities of hip-hop rivalries and the future of collaborations in the industry.

In this episode of B-side Banter, Tyler, Honeybee Reviews, and Mike Tee reflect on the music landscape of 2025, discussing exciting moments, disappointing albums, and the cultural impact of hip-hop. They delve into the state of the charts, the influence of producers like Jack Antonoff, and the mixed reception of Lorde's latest album. The conversation highlights the highs and lows of the music industry, providing insights into what has resonated with listeners and what has fallen flat. In this conversation, the hosts discuss various themes in music, focusing on underrated albums, worst albums, and the best albums of the year. They share their thoughts on specific artists and albums, highlighting the music industry's trends and the challenges artists face in taking creative risks. The discussion is lively and filled with insights into the current music landscape, making it a valuable listen for music enthusiasts. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the contrasting opinions surrounding Miley Cyrus's latest album, the unexpected success of Addison Rae's pop debut, and the ongoing debate about lyrical depth in pop music. They explore the rise of female artists in the industry, review standout albums of the year, and discuss anticipated releases for the remainder of 2025. The dialogue highlights the evolving landscape of music, emphasizing the importance of production quality and the unique identities of emerging artists.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, Tyler engages with What's The Buzz?, a content creator focused on hip hop. They discuss the evolution of short-form content, the complexities of hip hop news, and the artistic depth of figures like Pusha T. The conversation delves into current tensions in the hip hop community, particularly between Pusha T and Travis Scott, and explores the impact of marketing and streaming on music authenticity. They also review recent albums, highlighting both successes and disappointments in the music industry. In this engaging conversation, they discuss various aspects of the music industry, including Will Smith's unexpected return to music, the intricacies of music reviews, and the albums that resonate with them over time. They delve into the evolution of hip hop concerts, the appeal of CD collecting, and the powerful role of nostalgia in music, highlighting how it connects listeners to their past and shapes their experiences.

In this episode of B-side Banter, Tyler interviews Tyler Melton from Tyler for the Record, exploring the world of vinyl collecting. They discuss Melton's journey from a music enthusiast to a content creator, the importance of personal connections to records, and the various levels of collecting. The conversation also covers recommendations for beginners, essential equipment, and favorite artists, particularly focusing on Manchester Orchestra and their impact on Melton's musical journey. In this engaging conversation, they delve into the evolution of Manchester Orchestra, exploring their musical journey and experimentation. They discuss the challenges of live performances, the importance of supporting emerging artists, and share recent album recommendations. The conversation also touches on the thrill of vinyl hunting, the dynamics of Record Store Day, and the impact of deluxe album releases on collectors and fans alike.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, Tyler interviews James Shotwell from Country Minute, exploring the diverse world of country music. They discuss the evolution of the genre, the significance of Nashville as a cultural hub, and the impact of artists like Morgan Wallen on mainstream popularity. The conversation delves into the fusion of genres within country music, the role of traditionalism, and the recent changes in Grammy categories. They emphasize the importance of community, storytelling, and positivity in music criticism, while looking ahead to the future of country music and the emergence of new artists. In this engaging conversation, James and Tyler explore the evolving landscape of country music, discussing the excitement surrounding unique music ventures, the emergence of new artists, and the fusion of genres. They delve into the challenges artists face in staying relevant amidst the fast-paced nature of social media and the music industry. The duo also shares their favorite festival experiences and reflects on the recognition of talented artists like Kelsey Ballerini, highlighting the complexities of awards and audience engagement in the country music scene.

🔥 Welcome to INFLUENCE — a B-Side Banter series where we dive into the minds behind the music. 🔥In this episode, Tyler is joined by producer, writer, and mixer Caleb Wright — known for his work on Samia’s acclaimed Bloodless album. Caleb opens up about crafting the record, translating it for live shows, and why it just might be the album of the summer.We talk about the creative dynamic between artist and producer, the influence of Leonard Cohen and Flying Lotus, and how System of a Down (yes, really) left a lasting mark. Plus, Caleb shares his thoughts on working in non-traditional studio spaces, what makes a “bulletproof” song, and why Ethel Cain’s Perverts EP changed his life.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, host Tyler sits down with music and film contnent creator Myah Elliott for a deep dive into the cultural power of soundtracks, cinema, and live performance.They explore the evolving relationship between music and film—discussing everything from Pixar classics and Ryan Coogler’s direction to the rise of curated soundtracks from artists like Metro Boomin. Myah shares why animated films hit hardest, how movie theaters are still sacred (despite chaotic audiences), and what makes original storytelling so essential today.The conversation moves from Spider-Verse and Challengers to Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and the electrifying energy of live shows—especially Travis Scott’s Circus Maximus tour. Myah also reveals her top Michael Jackson songs, and the duo unpacks how music shapes identity, connection, and nostalgia.If you’re obsessed with film scores, concert highs, and the emotional overlap between movies and music, this episode is for you.

🔥 Welcome to the FIRST episode of Influence – a brand-new B-Side Banter segment! 🔥In this new series, we shift the spotlight to the creators behind the music—producers, songwriters, and engineers—diving into the sounds and artists that shaped them.I’m joined by Tone Def, the producer behind Briston Moroney’s breakout track Freaking Out on the Interstate, as well as work with Gatlin, The Moss, and more. We talk about the unlikely journey from Dr. Dre to Tom Petty to indie surf rock, how Radiohead’s Kid A blew his mind, and why the best records are often the simplest.Plus, Tone shares what makes a producer-artist relationship actually work, why music's gotten a little too safe lately, and what gives him hope for the next wave of experimentation.If you’ve ever wondered what makes a record feel good—and not just sound good—this one’s for you. 

In this episode of B-Side Banter, host B-Side Channel interviews Giggens, a full-time content creator and co-manager of a record store. They discuss Giggens' passion for music, particularly The Beach Boys, and his unique approach to album reviews that focus on positivity. The conversation delves into the darker aspects of The Beach Boys' history, the influence of both The Beach Boys and The Beatles on modern music, and Giggens' love for contemporary pop artists. In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the rise of K-Pop and its global influence on music, discussing its impact on American music culture and the appreciation of diverse genres. They delve into the evolution of music formats, particularly the resurgence of vinyl collecting, and the nostalgia associated with older music technologies like 8-Tracks. The discussion also touches on the future of music and content creation, highlighting the importance of supporting artists and the changing landscape of the music industry.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, host Tyler engages with Yusuf and Grace from Music Review World, discussing the platform's mission to provide in-depth music reviews and valuable feedback to emerging artists. They explore trends in music submissions, the impact of AI on music creation, and the importance of honest reviews in the industry. The conversation also delves into the challenges artists face in gaining exposure and the evolving landscape of music genres, particularly the resurgence of rock music. Yusuf and Grace share insights on their review process and the significance of marketing in the music industry, emphasizing the need for constructive criticism and genuine support for artists.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, Tyler from B-Side Channel interviews Carly Bogie, a passionate music curator and content creator. Carly shares her journey from starting a music blog in her college dorm to becoming a prominent figure in indie music curation on TikTok. The conversation delves into her transition from playlist curation to conducting interviews with artists, including her exciting experience interviewing FINNEAS. Carly discusses her favorite artists, including Phoebe Bridgers and Boy Genius, and the emotional connections their music evokes. The episode also highlights the magic of live music experiences, particularly at iconic venues like Red Rocks. In this engaging conversation, Tyler and Carly discuss their experiences with music, focusing on their favorite artists, the emotional connections they have with songs, and the complexities of understanding music lore. They explore the challenges of seeing favorite artists live, delve into the dynamics of The 1975, and share their top song recommendations. The discussion also touches on the balance between discovering new music and revisiting old favorites, as well as the emotional impact of music on their lives.

In this episode, we dive deep into the Drake vs Kendrick beef with guest Sal Luciano, a Toronto-based TikTok creator known for his passionate takes on Drake and music culture. We break down how the feud started, why J. Cole bowed out, and whether Kendrick’s Super Bowl shots crossed the line.We also explore how ghostwriting gets misunderstood in hip-hop, dissect Drake’s most underrated tracks, and talk about how the new generation of fans are changing the game. Plus: Sal ranks his 5 career-defining and favorite Drake songs—and yes, we talk about Ratchet Happy Birthday. 😬If you're a fan of raw music commentary, heated debates, and behind-the-scenes insights from two serious rap heads, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and drop your hottest Drake or Kendrick take in the comments! 👀

In this episode of B-Side Banter, Tyson Jones discusses his journey in music commentary, focusing on hip hop and the current landscape of the genre. He shares insights on the challenges of consuming music today, the resurgence of hip hop in 2023, and the impact of live performances on album sales. The conversation also delves into the Billboard 'Travis Scott Rule', the influence of Playboi Carti, and the expectations surrounding long-awaited albums. Tyson emphasizes the importance of honest commentary in music reviews and the subjectivity of musical opinions. In this conversation, Tyson Jones shares his experiences attending various music festivals, discussing the unique atmospheres and lineups of each. The dialogue shifts to the culture and etiquette surrounding festivals, emphasizing the importance of understanding the crowd dynamics. They explore the challenges of sound quality at large events and how live performances can alter perceptions of artists. The conversation then transitions to the evolution of hip hop artists, highlighting the impact of social media on their careers and the changing landscape of the genre. Tyson shares his thoughts on Tyler, The Creator's discography and Future's influence on the new generation of hip hop artists, concluding with a discussion on the challenges artists face in navigating their relationships with fans in the digital age.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, host B-Side Channel interviews Patrick Hicks, a music storyteller known for his engaging TikTok videos. They discuss Patrick's journey from starting on TikTok to evolving his storytelling style, focusing on influential artists like Juan Gabriel and Nina Simone, and exploring the impact of various musicians throughout history. The conversation highlights the challenges of condensing complex stories into short formats and the surprising reactions from audiences. Patrick shares his insights on the music industry and the importance of recognizing the roots of modern music. In this engaging conversation, Patrick Hicks shares surprising stories from music history, exploring the interconnectedness of artists and their journeys to fame. He discusses the origins of iconic bands like Third Eye Blind and The Cranberries, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in songwriting. The discussion also delves into the legacy of David Bowie and the evolution of punk music, highlighting how different genres influence one another and the personal nature of music appreciation.

In this episode, B-Side Channel interviews Mike Tee, a prominent music reviewer known for his engaging commentary on platforms like TikTok. They discuss various recent album releases, including Black Country New Road's new direction, Will Smith's unexpected return to music, and Lucy Dacus's exploration of love in her latest work. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by artists like Djo and Selena Gomez, who navigate their identities in the music industry amidst their acting careers. In this engaging conversation, Mike Tee and B-Side Channel delve into the world of music, discussing Saba's latest album, the intricacies of production, and the influence of iconic artists like Frank Ocean, Bjork, and Charlie XCX. They explore the emotional depth of songwriting, the impact of collaborations, and the evolution of music styles, providing listeners with a rich tapestry of insights into their favorite artists and albums.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, host B-Side Channel welcomes Ty, a TikTok creator known for his insights into rock, metal, and alternative music. The conversation explores Ty's musical journey, his favorite artists, and the evolution of his tastes over the years. They delve into the impact of iconic bands like The Cure and LCD Sound System, discuss the nuances of the metal scene, and share recommendations for new music, including Ty's thoughts on Playboi Carti's latest album. The episode highlights the beauty of music and the importance of exploring different genres.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, we’re diving headfirst into the chaos: from the worst popular rappers to our most controversial music takes. Honeybee Reviews joins me again as we debate Yeat, Koi Leray, Lil Yachty, and even icons like Lady Gaga and Drake. Plus, we play three rounds of blind ranking featuring Kendrick Lamar songs, Kanye West bangers, and the top 25 most streamed artists in the world.If you love hot takes, artist deep dives, and chaotic ranking games, this one’s for you. 🎙️🔥

Playboi Carti FINALLY dropped his long-awaited album MUSIC—but was it worth the hype? 🤔In this episode of B-Side Banter, I’m joined by Honeybee Reviews as we break down Carti’s newest project, the biggest surprises, and whether it lived up to five years of anticipation. From Kendrick Lamar’s unexpected feature to AI conspiracy theories surrounding The Weeknd’s vocals, we dive deep into everything you NEED to know about MUSIC.We also rank the top 5 Kanye West & Taylor Swift albums and songs, debate their legacies, and discuss how artists like Bon Iver and Radiohead are shaping music in 2025. If you love music debates, hot takes, and deep dives, this one’s for you!

🎙️ B-Side Banter is back with an exclusive look inside one of the most influential music publications—Pitchfork! In this episode, I sit down with Olivier Lafontant, an editorial fellow at Pitchfork, to discuss what goes on behind the scenes of music journalism, the controversy surrounding his reviews, and why Playboi Carti fans are growing impatient.We break down the truth about how Pitchfork ratings work, whether music reviews actually matter, and how a single phrase in an album review can spark a social media firestorm. Olivier also shares his Top 5 Playboi Carti songs, predicts when (or if) I Am Music will actually drop, and highlights the most exciting rising artists in hip-hop.🎧 Hit play for an unfiltered conversation about music journalism, rap culture, and the future of music criticism.

In this episode of B-Side Banter, I sit down with Kasey from Kasey’s Playlists, one of TikTok’s go-to curators for indie music discovery. With over five years of experience filtering through the endless sea of indie rock, folk, and pop, Kasey shares how she finds hidden gems, what defines “indie” today, and why some artists break while others struggle.We also dive into:🎤 The evolution of indie folk and indie rock🔎 The biggest challenges for indie artists in today’s industry🔥 Five indie artists to watch in 2025 (plus some hidden gems you need to hear)💿 The role of TikTok, playlists, and fan engagement in music discovery🎶 The most anticipated albums of 2025If you’re obsessed with finding your next favorite artist or love breaking down music trends, this episode is for you!

In this episode of B-Side Banter, I sit down with Aidan Nelson, the mastermind behind the viral New Music Friday TikTok series, to dive deep into the world of live music and 2025's most anticipated releases. Aidan shares his experiences attending 80 concerts in one year, revealing what makes live music so addicting and the culture shifts he's noticed post-COVID.We also get into 2025 music predictions, the albums we're most excited about, and the disappointments from 2024. From Chapel Roan’s breakout moment at Lollapalooza to Gracie Abrams’ rapid rise, we discuss the artists redefining the music scene.Plus, we touch on concert disappointments, wild fan interactions, and the impact of TikTok on new music discovery. Whether you're a live music fanatic or just looking for the next big thing in music, this episode has it all.Tune in for candid conversations, insider music reviews, and a sneak peek at what’s to come in 2025!🎧 Listen now and get ready to discover your next favorite artist!

🔥 I messed up. BIG TIME. 🔥In this episode of B-Side Banter, I’m coming clean about one of the WORST takes I’ve ever made as a music reviewer. I originally ranked Chappell Roan’s album and totally got it wrong—especially when it comes to the song “Coffee”. After dozens of listens, I’ve completely changed my mind, and I owe Chappell Roan and her fans an apology.🎶 I revisit my album ranking, reveal my new Top 5, and defend why “Coffee” is now my favorite track. Plus, I explain why I initially missed the brilliance of her ballads and how my “happy era” influenced my first impressions.

Mac Miller’s Balloonerism is here—but is it the best posthumous album ever? We break down his legacy, the hidden connection between Balloonerism and Good A.M., and where it ranks among the greatest posthumous releases. Plus, The Weeknd’s surprise Grammy appearance—was it a strategic comeback? And is Hurry Up Tomorrow really his final album? We also rank The Weeknd’s discography and discuss what’s next for hip-hop and pop in 2025.🎧 Follow B-Side Banter for deep music discussions, album breakdowns, and culture commentary!

🎤 Did we just witness the greatest hip-hop run of all time? 🎤In this bonus episode of B-Side Banter, we break down Kendrick Lamar’s historic year, from his record-breaking Grammy sweep to the viral rap beef with Drake that took over the internet.We discuss:✅ The explosive impact of Kendrick’s Not Like Us✅ How the beef transcended hip-hop into pop culture✅ Kendrick’s Super Bowl performance & massive tour with SZA✅ Why this run solidifies Kendrick as the GOAT of hip-hop✅ How he stacks up against legends like Kanye West, Jay-Z, & Nas✅ What’s next for Kendrick at the 2026 GrammysPlus, we dive into Kanye West’s legacy, the future of hip-hop, and whether we’ll ever see another artist have a year like Kendrick just did.

🔥 Welcome to the FIRST episode of B-Side Banter! 🔥In this episode, we’re diving DEEP into the 2025 Grammy Awards—breaking down the biggest winners, biggest snubs, and the most controversial moments. I’m joined by Honeybee Reviews, a top-tier music reviewer known for their in-depth takes on New Music Friday releases.We debate whether Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us deserved its historic sweep, discuss Beyoncé finally winning Album of the Year, and react to Kanye West’s wild Grammys appearance. Plus, we break down why Billie Eilish and Taylor Swift walked away empty-handed and whether Sabrina Carpenter’s wins were justified!If you love music reviews, deep dives into the industry, and all things music culture, you’re in the right place. Hit that LIKE & SUBSCRIBE button and let us know in the comments: Who was your biggest winner & loser of the Grammys? 👀