What the Riff Next Gen

The Electric Flag was the brainchild of guitarist Mike Bloomfield, and Long Time Comin' was their debut studio album.  The core of the band was formed by Mike Bloomfield on guitar, Barry Goldberg on keyboards, and Buddy Miles (soon to be with Jimmy Hendrix's Band of Gypsies) on drums.  Additionally, Nick Gravenites would sing lead on several tracks.
With "Long Time Comin'" Bloomfield wanted to create a sound that would feature what he called "American music."  He would draw inspiration from many sources including traditional country, gospel, and R&B, and the result would be a fusion of rock, jazz, R&B, and an early use of a horn section.  The sound would be described as an "eclectic approach toward American musical."  Critics would complement the group's sound on this album, though it would be somewhat of a failure commercially on the charts.
The Electric Flag would put out two albums in 1968, but would break up shortly before their second album was released.  Drug use affected the group's ability to perform, and Bloomfield would later admit that heroin caused his playing to fall apart.
Wayne brings us this classic of southern rock.
 
Wine
The full name for this song is actually "Drinking Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee," and is a traditional boogie-woogie blues song about a famous and not very good wine called Thunderbird ("the word is Thunderbird").  It was a creation of E & J Gallo Winery, made cheap with a high alcohol content.
Texas 
Buddy Miles sings lead on this blues track.  This sound would find traction with later groups like ZZ Top and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Bloomfield's playing was inspired by groups he heard in Chicago, and he would become known as one of the premier guitarists in rock music.  "I Wouldn't be an American, If it wasn't for Texas."
Killing Floor 
This is an updated take on the Howlin' Wolf blues classic.  It has a blues feel but with an upbeat tempo.  The Electric Flag would cover this long before Led Zeppelin would make it the basis for "The Lemon Song."  Jimmy Hendrix would play this at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival.
Groovin' Is Easy 
This is the "hit single" from the album.  The sound is different from the other blues-based tracks, and is a bit more time stamped for the age.  "Groovin's so easy, baby, if you know how.  You don't have to keep yourself forever slavin' - go out an chase whatever you're cravin'."
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
main theme from the animated series “Speed Racer”
While it would become a staple of after school and Saturday morning cartoons in the United States, this animated series was crossing the finish line of its run in Japan in this month.  
 
STAFF PICKS:
Summertime Blues by Blue Cheer
Rob starts off our staff picks with a cover of Eddie Cochran's song from 1958.  Blue Cheer was a psychedelic band out of San Francisco, and considered a precursor to the heavy metal band.  Many consider this song to be the first heavy metal song to chart in the U.S.  They were considered the loudest group in concert at the time.
I Thank You by Sam & Dave 
Bruce takes a soulful turn with the final Sam & Dave release on Stax records, as Stax ended a distribution deal with Atlantic Records (from which Sam & Dave were on loan).  It hit number 3 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart.  ZZ Top would cover this song later on, and it would be their second top 40 hit after "Tush."
(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay  by Otis Redding 
Brian's staff pick is another song from Stax records, and the last single from Otis Redding.  Redding died in a plane crash 3 days after recording this song.  It was Redding's biggest hit, and the first posthumous release in the U.S.  It hit number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Are You Gonna Be There (At the Love In) by The Chocolate Watchband
Wayne closes out the staff picks in fine hippie style with  this band out of Los Altos, California.  The Chocolate Watchband started in 1965 and would break up by 1970.  Supposedly Jerry Garcia plays guitar on this track. The story is that when the band's guitarist was too high to play, Garcia was in another studio in the same building, and sat in.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay by King Curtis & the Kingmakers
"Dock of the Bay" was so popular that it featured both Redding and this instrumental version on the charts.
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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.

Zebra is one of the great underrated bands of the 80's.  Randy Jackson (lead vocals, guitars, synthesizers, piano), Felix Hanemann (bass, keyboards, backing vocals) and Guy Gelso (percussion, backing vocals) formed Zebra in 1975 in New Orleans before moving to Long Island.  They were originally a cover band, playing rock with a prog rock bent from groups like Led Zeppelin, Yes, and Jethro Tull.  The band took the name Zebra after seeing a Vogue magazine cover featuring a model riding a zebra.  
It would be eight years from their founding before this eponymously named album would be their debut.  Zebra the album would become one of the fastest selling debut albums in Atlantic's catalogue, peaking at number 29.  Jackson's high vocals paired with both acoustic and electric guitars, supplemented with synthesizers and special effects would create a commercial success straddling the hard rock and prog rock genres.
Unfortunately, their debut album would also be their high water mark.  Zebra would produce a follow-up album which would hit the charts at number 84, then two more which would not chart.  Zebra took a brief hiatus in the early 90's, but the power trio would get back together and are still touring as of this podcast.
Rob brings us this album.
 
Who's Behind the Door
This single hit number 61 on the Billboard Hot 100, and number 10 on the US Rock charts.  The lyrics question death and what may lie beyond.  It starts with an amazing 12-string acoustic riff and ends with an epic space-aged wall of sound.  Jackson's high tenor parts are prominent.
When You Get There
This deeper cut takes a humorous approach to infidelity and a one-night stand.  “You wake up in the morning and you’re not feeling quite the same.  You feel a gentle hand upon you, but you seem to have forgotten her name.”
The La-La Song 
This song goes back many years to their touring days.  It has a distinctive prog rock feel. 
Tell Me What You Want
In our minds, this opening track from the album is reminiscent of the Alan Parson's Project or Def Leppard.  Its minor key and angst-filled lyrics depict the struggles a boy has with a girl to whom he gives everything and finds it is not enough. 
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Maniac by Michael Sembello (from the motion picture “Flashdance”)
This dance movie starring Jennifer Beals hit the screen in 1983.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Never Gonna Let You Go by Sergio Mendes 
Bruce starts off the staff picks with a ballad that Rick Beato calls "the most complex pop song of all time."  Originally written in 1982 by Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann and recorded by Dionne Warwick, there are 7 key changes by the time the chorus is reached.  Sergio Mendes would take this song to number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) by Journey  
Brian brings us the first single off the "Frontiers" album.  It is a break-up song written by Jonathan Cain and Steve Perry while they were on the road.  It was inspired by band members going through difficult divorces, and was premiered during the "Escape" tour.  The video...well, it leaves something to be desired.
Say What You Will  by Fastway
Wayne rocks out with a one-hit wonder from their debut self-titled album.  Fastway is a heavy metal band from Britain, and band members have connections to Motorhead and UFO.  The name comes from the combination of guitarist "Fast" Eddie Clarke and bassist Pete Way.  Dave King is on lead, and would move on to the Irish band Flogging Molly.
True by Spandau Ballet
Rob's staff pick is a staple of the 80's.  PM Dawn sampled this song, and gave the original a second life.  The lyrics were written as a tribute to Marvin Gaye - "Listen to Marvin all night long.  This is the sound of my soul."  This was the 6th biggest selling single of 1983 and Spandau Ballet's biggest hit.
 
COMEDY TRACK:
Intro to Monty Python's The Meaning of Life
The third Monty Python motion picture “The Meaning of Life” is great just because it had something to offend everyone.
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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.

For it's fifth studio album, Jethro Tull decided to satirize the concept album which was popular amongst prog rock acts like themselves, Yes, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer.  Thick as a Brick is a single piece of music spread across two album sides, and takes inspiration from Monty Python, poking fun at the critics, the audience, and the band itself.  Ian Anderson wrote much of the album, but the entire band contributed to the songs.  
The "concept" of this concept album is that the lyrics are written by an 8 year-old genius named Gerald Bostock, and the album is a musical adaptation of Bostock's poem.  The cover art continues the spoof, as it forms a 12-page English newspaper with both articles and advertisements that might be found in a small town paper.  
Contemporary critical reviews of the album were mixed, but retrospective reviews would all be positive.  Commercially the album was a success, hitting number 1 in the US, Canada, and Australia, and hitting number 5 in the UK.  
Brian brings us this prog rock spoof-turned-classic.
 
Thick as a Brick, part 1
This is the entire album side 1.  Most Jethro Tull fans will recognize the first few minutes as the radio cut of "Thick As a Brick," though most FM stations would truncate it as it drifts into the next movement of the suite.  Although it is one continuous piece of music, the movements are actually three- to five-minute songs stitched together to form a continuous whole.  
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The main theme from the motion picture “The Godfather”  
The ultimate mob movie was released this month, and was an offer we couldn't refuse!
 
STAFF PICKS:
A Horse With No Name by America
Rob's staff pick was America's first and most successful single off their self-titled debut album.  The song was originally entitled "Desert Song," and was inspired by prints by Salvador Dali and M.C. Escher.  One unusual thing about this song is that it is built on only two chords.
Chelsea Girls  by Spirit
Bruce brings us a deep cut in the leading track from Spirit's fifth album called Feedback.  This is the only Spirit album to feature John and Al Staehely as band members, and to not feature Randy California as a band member.  This album is a little more California country rock than the prog rock/psychedelic rock for which Spirit is better known.
30 Days In the Hole by Humble Pie 
Wayne presents the version of Humble Pie with guitarist Steve Marriott on lead vocals, as Peter Frampton had left the group.  This is off their fifth and most successful album, “Smokin.’”  This would become Humble Pie's best known song, despite the fact that it did not do well on the charts.
Stay With Me by the Faces
Rod Stewart's voice is hard to miss in Brian's staff pick.  This song chronicles the stereotypical one night stand of a band member on the tour.  Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood co-wrote this song, and  it is off their album "A Nod Is As Good As A Wink...To A Blind Horse."
   
COMEDY TRACK:
Taurus by Dennis Coffey
This rock instrumental was on the charts in this month.
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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.

Tears for Fears comes from Bath, England, and were formed by Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith.  Their first album, "The Hurting" was released in 1983 and was successful with songs like "Mad World" and "Pale Shelter."  However, their second album entitled Songs from the Big Chair, a title taken from the motion picture "Sybil" would be the one to propel them to super-stardom.  It peaked at number 2 in the UK and number 1 in the US.  In addition to Orzabal and Smith, Ian Stanley is on keyboards, and Manny Elias is on drums and drum arrangement.
Orzabal and Smith were inspired by electronic and synth-pop bands like Depeche Mode, Soft Cell, and Orchestral Manoeuvers in the Dark.  They started off as a duo initially called History of Headaches.  The name Tears for Fears comes from primal therapy, a psychological treatment developed by Arthur Janov.
Shortly after their follow-up third album ”The Seeds of Love,” Orzabal and Smith had a big falling out, breaking up the band in 1991.  They would get back together in 2000, and are still touring and releasing albums today.
 
Everybody Wants to Rule the World
This is the signature song from the album.  Bassist Curt Smith takes the lead vocals, and the lyrics are about the desire for power and about corruption.  It was a last minute addition to the album and was recorded in two weeks as the final track to be laid down.  
Shout
The lead-off track and second single to the album features Orzabal on lead vocals.  While many think this is about primal scream theory, Orzabal has said it is actually more about political protest.
Broken
This is a short piece with lyrics that have an angst-ridden declaration that we are all broken.  It is also commonly played in concert just in front of the next piece which also reprises Broken at the end.  
Head Over Heels
This is your classic “boy obsesses over girl” song.  It was released as the fourth single from the album, but it had been bouncing around for about 2 years along with Broken.  Orzabal takes vocal lead on this one.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Neutron Dance by The Pointer Sisters (from the motion picture "Beverly Hills Cop”)
Eddie Murphy's Beverly Hills Cop propelled both his career and this song originally appearing on a 1983 album to the top.
 
STAFF PICKS:
If I Had A Rocket Launcher by Bruce Cockburn
Wayne launches the staff picks with a protest song from Canada's own Bruce Cockburn.  The song lyrics tell the story from the perspective of the villagers experiencing warfare but being powerless to do anything about it.
Valotte by Julian Lennon
Rob brings us the title track from Julian Lennon's debut studio album.  The resemblance between Julian and his father are obvious.  Many think the river referenced is the Tennessee River near Muscle Shoals where portions of the album were recorded.
I Can't Hold Back by Survivor
Brian demonstrates that Survivor wasn't a one-hit wonder after all.  It starts with a nice acoustic guitar and builds quickly.  This single reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.  This is the first album with Jimi Jamison on lead vocals.
Sunset Grill by Don Henley
Bruce finishes off the staff picks with the ex Eagles’ single that hit number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100.  The Sunset Grill is a hamburger restaurant on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles.  The Austrian restaurant owner didn't know that his frequent visitor was Don Henley until after the song came out, making their hole-in-the-wall burger joint famous.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Listen by the Tears for Fears
We do a little double-dipping with this (almost) instrumental from "Songs From the Big Chair." 
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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.

Atlanta, Georgia's own The Georgia Satellites released their debut and self-titled album in 1986.  Dan Baird was their primary songwriter and lead vocalist on most songs.  Guitarist Rick Richards, bassist Rick Price, and dummer Mauro Magellan complete the band.  Originally formed as Keith and the Satellites in 1980, the band saw a number of personnel changes and a name change to The Georgia Satellites soon thereafter.  They honed their craft playing at a Buckhead bar called Hedgens on Monday nights.
The Georgia Satellites signed with Elektra Records in 1986 and released this debut album to significant commercial success.  The single "Keep Your Hands To Yourself" saw significant airplay on MTV, and went to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, denied the number 1 spot by Bon Jovi's "Livin' On a Prayer."  The band featured a southern rock sound with a boogie slant, and this debut would be certified Platinum by the RIAA.
The Georgia Satellites would produce two albums of original material and a third with both new and re-released tracks after this debut, but would not see the popularity return to the level of this first album.  Dan Baird left the band in 1990 and the band went on hiatus for a few years, but the remaining members would return to touring by 1993 and still perform today.
Wayne brings us this classic of southern rock.
 
Railroad Steel
This track is the third single from the album.  It did not chart on the Billboard Hot 100 but made it to number 34 on the Billboard Rock Charts.  The lyrics are about a guy who is cold, but whose heart can be melted by a particular woman.
Keep Your Hands To Yourself
"She said, 'Don't hand me no lines, and keep your hands to yourself!'"  This is the big hit from the album, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.  It is about a woman that will not give in to a guys pleading until they get married.  "You see, I wanted her real bad and I was about to give in.  Oh, that's when she started talking about true love, started talking about sin."
Battleship Chains
Though it didn't make the top 40, this was an entry into the Billboard Hot 100 at number 86.  It also features guitarist Rick Richards on lead vocals. This song was written by Terry Anderson and recorded by his band The Woods out of North Carolina.  The Georgia Satellites heard the band and recorded their own version.
Red Light
This is a deep cut, and is a song about a woman who is angry at her partner.  "Got Van Halen wailin' on the stereo  eight track.  Watch out baby that's what I said.  There's a red light, road block, bridge out ahead."
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Dentist! by Steve Martin (from the motion picture “Little Shop of Horrors”)
This movie based on the musical of the same name starred Rick Moranis and a psychotic plant living off human blood.  Steve Martin has a cameo as a sadistic dentist.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Ship of Fools by World Party
Rob starts off our staff picks with a British group which was basically a solo project for lead man Karl Wallinger.  While his band was a one-hit wonder, Wallinger collaborated with other artists like Sinead O'Connor and Robbie Williams, and was the musical director for the films “Clueless” and “Reality Bites.”  The concept of the lyrics is that there will be a price to pay from the way you are living today.  
The Way It Is by Bruce Hornsby and the Range
Bruce's staff pick is a piano driven soft rock song about civil rights and not getting complacent.  It hit number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.   "That's just the way it is - ah, but don't you believe them."
Everybody Have Fun Tonight by Wang Chung
Brian brings us a song originally conceived as a ballad, but adapted to a faster pace and dance orientation by producer Peter Wolf.  The self-referential verb "Wang Chung" is a nonsensical but catchy phrase.
(I am) Superman by R.E.M.
Wayne's staff pick is actually a cover song originally recorded by a band called The Clique.  Bassist Mike Mills sings lead on this song because Michael Stipe wasn't very enthusiastic about it.  When Stipe sings backup vocals in live performances, he holds his arms up and out as if he is Superman flying.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Walter's Theme by R.E.M.
We wrap up this week's podcast with an instrumental track off R.E.M's album "Dead Letter Office."
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.
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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.

Formed in London in 1969, Uriah Heep released their fourth and (to this point) most successful album, Demons and Wizards in May 1972.  This album would also see the debut of what is considered the classic lineup of Uriah Heep as bassist Gary Thain and drummer Lee Kerslake joined vocalist David Byron, guitarist Mick Box, and keyboardist/multi-instrumentalist/singer/songwriter Ken Hensley to form the group for this album.  While the album cover and title suggest medieval fantasy, Hensley has stated that it was just a collection of songs, not a concept album.  It is hard to deny the prog rock feel, however.
Uriah Heep is considered a forerunner of hard rock, heay metal, and progressive rock.  They have developed quite the cult following over the years, having released 24 studio albums, 20 live albums, and 41 compilation albums.
Roger Dean created the cover art, as he did for a number of prog rock groups including Yes and Asia.
The name Uriah Heep comes from a character from Charles Dickens' "David Copperfield"
Brian is featuring this album.  Friend of the show Bill Cook joins us in Bruce's place for this episode.
 
The Wizard
 Former bassist Mark Clarke and Ken Hensley wrote this song, the opening track to the album and the first single released from the album.  The lyrics are about a wanderer who meets "the Wizard for a thousand kings."  It would be the first Uriah Heep song to be made into a video.
Easy Livin'
The second single off the album would be the only one to chart in the United States, making it to number 39 on the Billboard Hot 100.  Surprisingly it did not chart in the UK.  This is a common cover for party bands, though it was intended to be taken ironically.
Circle of Hands
This is a deeper cut from the album, starting strong with the Hammond Organ.  With lyrics like "Circle of hands, cold spirits' plan, searching the land for an enemy,"  it is hard to not see a thread of fantasy running through the track.
Rainbow Demon
This track leads off side 2 of the album.  "There rides the rainbow demon on his horse of crimson fire.  Black shadows are following closely on the heels of his desire."  This slow anthem continues with the strong organ work and combines it with a fuzzy guitar sound.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Sitting Pretty (from the motion picture "Cabaret")  
Liza Minnelli and Michael York starred in this movie based on the Broadway show.
 
STAFF PICKS:
I Saw the Light by Todd Rundgren
Rob's staff pick was the lead-off track from Rundgren's third album, "Something/Anything?" and was placed there via inspiration from Motown's history of putting the hit songs first.  Multi-instrumentalist Rundgren wrote the track in 20 minutes and credits the use of stimulants like Ritalin for his prolific songwriting at the time.  
Run Run Run  by JoJo Gunne
Bill Cook brings us a shuffle beat number by Los Angeles based JoJo Gunne, a band formed by Jay Ferguson and Mark Andes after they left the band Spirit.  "We're all just papers in the wind."  
Sweet Hitch-Hiker by Creedence Clearwater Revival 
Wayne presents an underplayed swamp rock song from CCR.  This is off their last album with John Fogerty.  A restaurant called the Greasy King is referenced in the song, and that restaurant is in El Cerrito, the home town of the band members.
Baby Blue by Badfinger
Brian finishes off the staff picks with a song from an album produced by Todd Rundgren.  Badfinger was the first group signed to The Beatles' Apple Records.  This is the last top 40 hit in the US for the group.  
   
COMEDY TRACK:
Troglodyte (Cave Man) by The Jimmy Castor Bunch
This is a funk novelty song hit number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100.  The song is the introduction of a character called Bertha Butt, who would recur in other songs from the Jimmy Castor Bunch.
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.
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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.

Steve Winwood was a well known vocalist and guitarist throughout the rock era due to his contributions to the Spencer Davis Group, Traffic, and Blind Faith.  His solo career would hit its high water mark with his fourth studio album, Back in the High Life.  It was originally released in June 1986, and we are featuring it in February 1987 when the last single, “The Finer Things” was released and was headed up the charts.
Winwood had seen success as a soloist previously, but his last US album hit had been in 1980 when “Arc of a Diver” hit number 3 on the Billboard 200 chart.  For this new album Winwood  turned to Ron Weisner as manager, who had worked with Madonna and Michael Jackson.  Weisner encouraged him to record in New York, away from his home where Winwood was having marital difficulties.  He also encouraged Winwood to sing from the front of the stage rather than from behind the keyboards, positioning him as more of a front man than keyboardist.
To say the result was a success would be an understatement.  Five of the eight songs would be released as singles.  Winwood would become a household name with this album, crossing over to find success in pop rock and adult contemporary genres.
Rob brings us this album, and friend of the show Bill Cook joins us while Bruce is out.
The Finer Things
This song went to number 8 on the charts.  This synth-driven piece encourages people to take time to enjoy the moment.  While finer things are often thought to be luxury goods, Winwood instead portrays "finer things" in terms of relationships.  
Split Decision
Another single with a more rock-oriented feel, this track features Joe Walsh on guitar.  It went to number 3 on the U.S. charts. The lyrics reflect the idea that there are two faces to us - one confident, one not sure.  "One man puts the fire out, the other lights the fuse."
Take It As It Comes
This is a deeper cut even though it was released as a single, and features a horn section.  The lyrics take a stoic approach to life, that we need to take the good and the bad as it comes.
Back In the High Life Again
A huge hit on both pop and rock stations, this title track starts with Winwood playing a mandolin, and features James Taylor on background vocals.  This song would hit number 1 on the adult contemporary charts and number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100.  These lyrics take a more positive tact than "Take It As It Comes," expressing confidence that we'll be back on top soon.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Winner Takes It All by Sammy Hagar (from the motion picture “Over the Top”
Sylvester Stallone starred in this action movie focused on arm wrestling.  It was released in February 1987.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Stay the Night by Benjamin Orr 
Brian brings us a solo effort from former Cars bassist Benjamin Orr.  Both Cars front man Ric Ocasek and Orr had successful solo projects at the time.  This synth-heavy piece hit number 24 on the Billboard Hot 100, and was Orr's only venture into the top 40.  
Will You Still Love Me by Chicago
Friend of the show Bill Cook features a song off Chicago XVIII, their fifteenth studio album.  It is the second single from the album, and reached number 3 on the U.S. charts.  Jason Scheff, new vocalist and bassist for the band, sings lead in the place of Peter Cetera who had left the band to pursue a solo career. 
Fight For Your Right by the Beastie Boys
Wayne's staff pick rocks out with a an anthem from the debut album from the Beastie Boys, "Licensed to Ill."  It hit number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100.  This song was intended as a parody of "party" and "attitude" themed songs, but it took on a life of its own as a legitimate "attitude" song.
Ready Or Not by Lou Gramm
Rob's finishes the staff picks with the front man from Foreigner.  This is the title track off Gramm's solo album, and it made it to number 7 on the rock charts.  It is the second single from the album.    
 
NOVELTY TRACK:
Secret Agent Man/James Bond is Back by Bruce Willis
Bruce Willis was starring in Moonlighting at the time, and parleyed this into some music singles including this one.
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.
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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.

One of the founding groups of heavy metal is Judas Priest, and their eighth studio album entitled Screaming for Vengeance would be their commercial breakthrough album for North America.  In addition to the distincive vocals of Rob Halford, the Judas Priest lineup for this album included K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton on guitars, Ian Hill on bass, and Dave Holland on drums.
Judas Priest was formed in 1969, but did not issue a record on a major label until 1977 and their third studio album.  Their sixth studio album, British Steel, was the first to feature Dave Holland on drums and is considered their high water mark by most critics.  However, Screaming for Vengeance would find both heavy metal and mainstream rock success 
Friends of the show Joe Davis and John Lynch join us for this album while Bruce and Brian are away.
 
The Hellion
The lead track to the album is this short instrumental that builds to Electric Eye.
Electric Eye
This track follows The Hellion on the album and is often the leading song at Judas Priest concerts.  The inspiration comes from George Orwell's 1984 - the electric eye is the camera that the totalitarian government uses to watch over all in the dystopian community.  While not released as a single, this is a well known song played on rock stations at the time.
Riding the Wind
A deeper cut, this is everything you would want in a metal song - fast drums, screaming guitars, and high vocals in a minor key. “Tearin' up through life million miles an hour!  Blindin' all in sight, surgin' rush of power!  Well I'm riding, riding on the wind.”
You Got Another Thing Coming
The first single released from the album is now one of Judas Priest's signature songs.  It reached number 67 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it is the only Judas Priest song to make that chart.  The song reflects the idea of taking life by the horns, and not letting anything stand between you and your dreams.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Raised on the Radio by the Ravyns (from the motion picture “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”)
This movie came out in August of 1982, and would be a mainstay of midnight movies throughout the 80's.  This song is the leading track from the motion picture soundtrack album.
STAFF PICKS:
Favourite Shirts by Haircut 100
Rob's staff pick is also known as "Boy Meets Girl."  Haircut 100 is one of the New Wave bands which was a part of the second British Invasion.  It is a fast song with a conga feel.  
Everybody Wants You by Billy Squier
Friend of the show Joe Davis features the lead track from Squier's album "Emotions In Motion."  It hit number 32 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent six weeks at number 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.  The lyrics reflect the hazards of leaning on superficial looks.
Eye of the Tiger by Survivor
Friend of the show John Lynch brings us the main theme from Rocky III."  It was also the title song from their third album, and the single was released a day before the movie.  Naturally it rapidly climbed the charts and was the number 1 song for the month of August 1982.  
Beyond Belief by Elvis Costello
Wayne's staff pick is a deep cut off Costello's album "Imperial Bedroom."  A very complex and multi-layered song, the lyrics are also quite clever.  "Keep your finger on important issues/ with crocodile tears and a pocketful of tissues."
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Nuevo York by Santana
Santana's distinctive Latin infused guitar licks take us out on this week's podcast.
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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.

For their ninth studio album and Sammy Hagar's third album as lead singer, Hagar suggested Van Halen title it F*CK (... only the * was a letter).   Censorship in rock music was a controversial topic at the time, and Hagar wanted to push limits.  The name changed to For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge when Hagar was told by Ray "Boom Boom” Mancini that the vulgarity was actually an acronym for this phrase.  
For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge was intended to be a return to the rock roots of Van Halen after a number of albums featuring more use of synthesizers and a stronger pop feel.  The album took a year to make, as Van Halen was one of the most successful and well-known rock bands at the time, and the members were enjoying the material fruits of that success.  They also had their own recording studio (Eddie Van Halen's 5150 Studios), and money sufficient to not have to worry about rushing an album out.
Critical reception was mixed at best.  Nevertheless, it was a commercial hit, debuting at number 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart.  
We hope you enjoy this album podcast, and the debate on the David Lee Roth/Sammy Hagar eras of Van Halen.
P.S. Wayne is crazy if he doesn't like Sammy.
Guest contributor Joe Davis brings us his favorite Van Halen album. 
 
Judgement Day
This deeper cut is the second track from the album.  It is a fast moving, hard rocking critique of conservative Christianity’s moves to censor words and actions.  This song contains screams from Hagar and Anthony that are some of the loudest notes hit by the two on any Van Halen song.
Pleasure Dome
Joe picked this song because he considers it “the best guitar solo in any Van Halen song.”  Many consider the song to be inspired by Rush's “Xanadu,” and both take inspiration from the Samuel Taylor Coleridge poem “Kubla Kahn.” The lyrics reflect the temptation and trap that is a life focused on pleasure.
The Dream Is Over
This deep cut discusses the disillusionment when the dream of easy money or success following "the system" results in failure.  If a generation can't succeed by the rules of society, then “dream another dream, this dream is over.”
Runaround
Another deep cut, this one starts with a six-stringed bass guitar.  A number of innovations were featured in this album, from this six-string guitar to the use of a drill near the pickups to start "Poundcake."  The lyrics are about a girl who can't get pinned down.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
(Everything I do) I Do It For You by Bryan Adams (from the motion picture "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves")
Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman starred in this rendition of the classic Robin Hood tale.
 
STAFF PICKS:
It's You That Leaves Me Dry by EMF
Wayne gets the staff picks rolling with the Manchester sound.  This deep cut from the same album that gave us “Unbelievable” was a popular track in dance clubs in the UK.  The lyrics are about a bad relationship where one partner sucks the life out of another.
All the Time in the World by Junkyard
Rob brings us another deep cut with a Motley Crue feel.  Junkyard hails from Los Angeles, and this song went to number 24 on the charts.  The members of Junkyard were fans of the Southern Rock sound, though not fans of Southern Rock culture.
Losing My Religion by R.E.M.
Friend of the show John Lynch brings us one which is definitely not a deep cut!  This mandolin-based song is the lead single off "Out of Time," R.E.M.'s seventh studio album.  Lead singer Michael Stipe has stated that the song is not about religion - despite the title - but more about losing temper, or feelings of desperation.
Man In The Box by Alice In Chains 
Joe finishes off the staff picks with a track loosely about censorship, but more specifically inspired by a discussion about cattle being raised in small boxes with little room.  This also ushers in the start of the grunge era.
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Black Napkins by Frank Zappa
The always eclectic Frank Zappa finishes us off this week with a jazzy instrumental piece.
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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.
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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.

Today Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs is considered Eric Clapton's best work.  However, at the time that this double album debut by Derek and the Dominos came out it was considered both a commercial and critical failure.  Clapton met fellow Derek and the Dominos band members Bobby Whitlock (keyboards), Carl Radle (bass) and Jim Gordon (drums) when working with Delaney & Bonnie.  Whitlock and Clapton got together at Clapton's house and composed most of what would become the original songs on the Layla album.
The name Derek and the Dominos was chosen by Eric Clapton because he was tired of the supergroup approach to music and did not want his fame to overshadow the band.  Derek and the Dominos played a lot of small clubs in England in August, then went to Miami to record the studio album.
The group met up with Duane Allman in Miami, and Allman and Clapton struck up a close friendship from the start.  Allman would record on 11 of the 14 songs on the album.
Most know that the song Layla was inspired by Clapton's infatuation with Pattie Boyd Harrison, George Harrison's wife.  In truth, many of the songs on the Layla album were performed with Pattie Boyd in mind.
Unfortunately this double album is the only record these musicians would make together.  Clapton would struggle with drug addiction and depression for several years afterward, and Allman would die in a tragic accident in 1971.  The reputation of this album would grow over time, however, and is iconic today.
 
Bell Bottom Blues
This song was the first single, and was written by Clapton and Whitlock.  The inspiration for the song was that Pattie Boyd had asked Clapton to get her a pair of bell-bottom blue jeans while he was in the United States.  
It's Too Late
The album contains five covers including this blues song originally benned by Chuck Willis in 1956.  Clapton and Whitlock trade off on vocals, and guitar work is from Eric Clapton and Duane Allman.  The song would be performed on Derek and the Dominos' only TV appearance, on the Johnny Cash Show in January 1971.
Why Does Love Got to Be So Sad
You can hear a terrific jam between Clapton and Allman on guitar in this song.  It swings from A minor on the verses to D major on the chorus.  Whitlock and Clapton trade off vocal work.
Layla
This signature track was inspired by a 12th century tale called “The Story of Layla and Majnun.”  It is about a young man who falls hopelessly in love with a young girl only to be rebuffed by her father because of his obsession with her.  Clapton of course identified with the story of hopeless love because of his feelings toward Pattie Boyd Harrison.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Main theme from the television series “The Goodies”
This offbeat comedy series premiered in the UK in this month.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Share the Land by the Guess Who
Brian starts off the staff picks with the title track from the Guess Who's seventh studio album, and the first after the departure of guitarist Randy Bachman.  The lyrics reflect the growing popularity of the environmental movement.  Burton Cummings wrote this song and sings lead.
Cherryhill Park by Billy Joe Royal
Wayne brings us a story song about a young girl named Mary Hill who “was a thrill after dark in Cherryhill Park.”  The thrills end when Mary Hill marries a rich man.  Billy Joe Royal was born in Valdosta, Georgia.
Montego Bay by Bobby Bloom
Rob finds an early reggae-influenced rock song.  Bobby Bloom and Jeff Berry wrote this one-hit wonder.  It made it to number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100.  Sadly, Bobby Bloom died in 1974 at the age of 28.
Somebody's Been Sleeping in My Bed by 100 Proof (Aged in Soul)
Bruce's staff pick comes from the songwriting team of Holland-Dozier Holland after they left Motown Records to set up a separate label.  This song about discovering evidence of infidelity went to number 8 on the US pop charts, and was 100 Proof's biggest hit
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Overture by the Who
In the tradition of symphonic music, the Who began their rock opera Tommy with this overture. 
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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.

Some of the most popular songs from The Cult come from Sonic Temple, their fourth studio album.  They garnered some attention in 1985 when the single “She Sells Sanctuary” off their second album hit the US charts, and they had established a solid following as a “post punk” or “goth rock” band, but Sonic Temple would put them over the top with its more hard rock appeal.
The band lineup for this album consisted of Ian Astbury on vocals and percussion, Billy Duffy on guitar, Jamie Stewart on bass and keyboards, and newcomer Mickey Curry on drums.  Prior to Curry, the band had relied on Eric Singer for the first demos, and Chris Taylor for second demos at the drums.
While the critical reception was mixed with some considering the work too conventional, the commercial success was undeniable.  The album shot up to the top 10 in both the UK and the US, and was certified gold in the UK and platinum in the US.
Creative differences would destabilize the group on their fifth studio album and the group would break up after 1998.  However several reunions took place over the years, and the group is back together as of 2022. 
Brian leads the discussion of this album.
Sun King
Astbury and Duffy wrote this song, inspired by Louis XIV.  Known as the Sun King, Louis XIV is the French King who moved the royal court to Versailles.  The track is an explicitly masculine one.  “I’m a sun king, baby, let me take you by the hand.  Sun king, honey, we can rule across the land.” 
 Fire Woman
The first single from the album is this well known track.  As with all the tracks, Ian Astbury and Billy Duffy wrote this hit which peaked at number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 2 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks charts.  Astbury has stated that this is a universal symbol, an archetype of the femme fatale.
Edie (Ciao Baby)
Edie Sedgwick is the inspiration for this song.  Sedgwick was an actress and socialite who traveled in Andy Warhol's circles in 1960's New York.  Sedgwick lived fast and died young of a drug overdose.  She was 28 when she died.  Her last film was “Ciao! Manhattan.”  This is not the only song inspired by Sedgwick, as Bob Dylan's “Just Like a Woman” is supposedly inspired by Edie Sedgwick as well.
Sweet Soul Sister
This track was written in Paris, inspired by the Americanization of European culture.  It was the fourth single released from the album.  The song observes the love/hate relationship that comes with both the attraction and resistance experienced as a response to American culture, particularly in France.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The main theme from the television series "Saturday Night Live" 
Mike Myers joined the cast of Saturday Night Live, and original cast member Gilda Radner died in this month in 1989.
 
STAFF PICKS:
So Alive by Love and Rockets 
Rob begins the staff picks with a group that sounds a bit like INXS.  This single is off the self-titled fourth album from Love and Rockets.  “You're legs are strong and you're so, so long, and you don't come from this town.”  The single made it to number 3 in the U.S., and was considered the number 1 modern rock song in the U.S. for 1989.
Walkin' Shoes  by Tora Tora
Wayne features a rock-blues number from a group out of Memphis, Tennessee.  This underrated song made it to number 47 on the Billboard Hot 100, and the sound reminds us of Motley Crue and Led Zeppelin.  The group won studio time in a Battle of the Bands contest.  Tora Tora is still recording as of 2022.
Dreams In the Dark by Badlands
Bruce's staff pick is a hair band formed by former Black Sabbath members Ray Gillen (vocals) and Eric Singer (drums), former Ozzy guitarist Jake E. Lee, and former Surgical Steel bass player Greg Chaisson.  After Lee was fired from Ozzy's band by Sharon Osborne, he was motivated to form this band.  As mentioned previously Eric Singer had a hand in the demos of The Cult's album, and would go on to join KISS. 
Good Thing by Fine Young Cannibals
Brian  wraps up this week's staff picks with the second big hit from FYC's album, “The Raw & the Cooked.”  Fine Young Cannibals hail from Birmingham, England, formed in 1984 and disbanded in 1992.    
   
COMEDY TRACK:
Debbie Gibson Is Pregnant with My Two-Headed Love Child  by Mojo Nixon
This boogie-woogie comedy track is a good example of the type of parody song for which Mojo Nixon is famous.
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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.

One of the earliest examples of a prog rock record was Days of Future Passed, the second studio album by The Moody Blues. Originally a rhythm and blues band, The Moody Blues were in difficult financial straits when they convinced the record company to combine their music with orchestral elements and interludes in a single album.  The group recorded much of their sessions first, then provided these to conductor Peter Knight, who directed the London Festival Orchestra (the house orchestra for Decca Records) in arrangements and orchestral interludes.
The Moody Blues for this album are Justin Hayward on guitar, piano, and vocals, John Lodge on bass and vocals, Mike Pinder on keyboards and vocals, Ray Thomas on flute, piano, and vocals, and Graeme Edge on drums and vocals.
Days of Future Passed is created as a concept around a day in the life of "an everyday man."  It begins with a track appropriately entitled "The Day Begins," and concludes with a piece labeled "The Night," which we know as "Nights in White Satin," and "Late Lament."  
The album was somewhat successful when first released, but would climb in popularity over a long period of time, particularly on the growing strength of "Nights in White Satin" on FM radio in the U.S.  It would eventually peak on the album charts at number 2 in the U.S. - in 1972!
Brian takes us on this day trip.
 
Dawn:  Dawn Is a Feeling
Keyboardist Mike Pinder wrote this song, the first track sung after the Instrumental overture and spoken recitation.  As the name implies, it represents the start of the day.
Lunch Break
Bassist John Lodge sings lead on this song which he also wrote.  The fast pace is suggestive of the hectic period of lunch hour on a business day.  The song has an orchestral introduction which was recorded separately from the rest of the track.
Tuesday Afternoon 
Also known as "Forever Afternoon" or "Forever Afternoon (Tuesday?)", the song was originally intended to be named "Tuesday Afternoon" but was changed for the album.  It was released as "Tuesday Afternoon" when released as a single.  Justin Hayward wrote the song in Lypiatt Park on a (you guessed it) Tuesday afternoon.
Nights In White Satin/Late Lament
Hayward composed this hit at the age of 19 in Belgium, inspired by a gift of satin bedsheets given by his girlfriend.  The song is about a yearning love from afar.  The strength of this song would provide the success for both the album and The Moody Blues as a whole.  Late Lament was written by drummer Graeme Edge, and is recited by keyboardist Mike Pinder.  This is the only album track on which the band recorded with the London Festival Orchestra rather than separately.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
Won't You Be My Neighbor? (the main theme to the children's series Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood)
The television series starring Fred Rogers debuted nationally this month.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Tomorrow by Strawberry Alarm Clock
Bruce starts us off with a psychedelic and sunshine pop group out of Los Angeles.  This song is the first single off the group's second album, "Wake Up...It's Tomorrow."  It would hit number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, and would be their second and final top 40 hit.  "But right now I am with you, and together we can make it through."
Hey Baby (They're Playing Our Song)  by The Buckinghams
Rob's staff pick continues in the sunshine pop genre with a band out of Chicago.  This is off their album "Portraits," and made it to number 12 on the charts.  "Sunshine Pop" is rooted in easy listening and "advertising jingles."  The Buckinghams got their name in an attempt to channel some of the success of the British Invasion.  They had 5 top 40 hits in 1967. 
Nobody But Me by the Human Beinz
Wayne brings us a well-known cover originally performed by The Isley Brothers.  There are over 100 "no's" in this song and 47 "nobody's," making it quite literally a quite negative song.  While this would be the only entry into the top 10, it would become a staple of Fraternity parties from then on.    
Sunday Mornin' by Spanky & Our Gang
Brian  features Elaine "Spanky" McFarlane as lead woman for the band.  Spanky & Our Gang had a number of hits in the 60's.  This sunshine pop song peaked at number 30 as a single, and preceded the album by several months.  
   
COMEDY TRACK:
Here Come the Judge by Shorty Long
This funky novelty song was inspired by a skit on Rowan & Martin's "Laugh In," and was Long's biggest hit, rising to number 4 on the charts.
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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.

At a time when most music was coming out of the Seattle grunge scene or the Athens, Georgia college environment, Alabama's own Brother Cane is a reminder that good rock music can originate anywhere.  The band was formed by front man and guitarist Damon Johnson and bassist Glenn Maxey, and they were joined by guitarist Roman Glick and drummer Scott Collier.  Their self-titled debut album would peak at number 14 on the Billboard Heatseekers Chart.
Johnson wrote or co-wrote most of the songs on the album, but writing credits would be received by all band members for at least one song on the record.  
Maxey left the group shortly after the debut album was released, after which Glick would switch to bass and the band would bring guitarist David Anderson into the group.  Brother Cane would release three albums before disbanding, though they would reunite over the years, and are reformed as of 2022.
Friend of the show and owner of Monkey Wrench Brewing Wayne Baxter joins us for this podcast.
 
How Long
This track starts off slow and builds as the song continues.  The entire band receives songwriting credits for this song, as does their producer, Marti Frederiksen.  "How long my brother, can we  turn away?  
Got No Shame
This track is the lead single from the album, and the opening song for the album.  Authentic harmonicast Cooper Price starts the song with a true Southern sound.  This song made it to number 2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.  Johnson and Frederiksen wrote this upbeat, energetic piece as a "southern version of 'Welcome to the Jungle'."
Hard Act to Follow
A somewhat slower song with similarity to the Black Crowes, the lyrics talk about the difficulty of moving on after a breakup.  "You're a hard act to follow.  Can't find nobody quite like you."
Don't Turn Your Back on Me
The funky organ and heavy "wall of sound" style gives this song a lot of appeal.  We felt that the use of the vocoder hearkens back to Peter Frampton's work as well.  
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The theme from the television series “The Wonder Years”
The series that propelled Fred Savage to stardom finished it's run in 1993.
 
STAFF PICKS:
Lost In Your Eyes by the Jeff Healy Band
Brian's staff pick hearkens from Canada.  Norman Jeffrey Healy started playing guitar at the age of three.  Blind from a young age due to a rare cancer of the eyes.  Healy often plays guitar with the instrument in his lap.  This ballad was on the charts this month.
Jessie by Joshua Kadison 
Bruce brings us the lead single from Kadison's debut album, "Painted Desert Serenade," released in May 1993.  The songs on this album are ballads and soft rock, but there's more sophistication to them than the average love song.  This one is about a guy who seems constantly drawn back to a girl and her fantastic plans that never seem to work out.  Rod Argent is on keyboards and produced this song.
Who's Gonna RIde Your Wild Horses by U2
Friend of the show Wayne Baxter features the fifth single from the album “Achtung Baby.”  The lyrics are inspired by the pain of divorce, which guitarist The Edge was going through at the time.  A number of versions of this song were created, as the band struggled with the sound they wanted out of this track.
Honest to God by Brad Gillis
Rob's finishes the staff picks with former Night Ranger guitarist Brad Gillis playing with singer, guitarist, and co-writer Gregg Allman.  This has a heavy sound with Allman's distinctive vocals.  
 
INSTRUMENTAL TRACK:
Instrumental Jam by Emerson, Lake, and Palmer
The prog rock legends from the 70's had a new release in the 90's, and this instrumental piece from that album closes us out.  
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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.
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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.

The James Gang originated in Cleveland, Ohio, and is best known as a power trio consisting of Jim Fox on drums, Dale Peters on bass (Tom Kriss on bass for their first album) and Joe Walsh on guitars and lead vocals.  This Greatest Hits album captures work done on the first three James Gang albums where Joe Walsh is the principal songwriter and is front and center of the band.
Walsh joined the group just prior to their signing with a record label.  They produced "Yer' Album" in 1969.  This would be followed by "James Gang Rides Again" and "Thirds."  A live album would also be produced before Joe Walsh would depart the band in favor of solo work, and eventually join the Eagles.
While the group would continue on for several years after Joe Walsh's departure, they could never recapture the sound or hooks that Walsh brought to the band.  The James Gang disbanded completely after 1977, though occasional reunions and tours of the classic lineup have happened since then.
Friend of the show and owner of Monkey Wrench Brewing, Wayne Baxter features this album for this podcast.
 
Walk Away
Hard rock, funk, and soul can be heard throughout this song.  It was on the Billboard Hot 100, making it to number 51 in July of 1971 when it was out as a single off their third studio album.  It chronicles a rocky relationship in which the girl doesn't really want to keep things going.
Funk #49 
This track was the first single of the James Gang's second album.  The lyrics are about a wild girlfriend, but the core of the song is the instrumental work and Walsh's guitar riffs.  The name follows a previous song, “Funk #48,” which appeared on the first James Gang album.
Midnight Man
Another song off the “Thirds” album, this song has a mellower sound that hearkens back to the 60's.  Mary Sterpka is the female voice brought in as a session musician for this track.  
The Bomber:  Closet Queen/Bolero/Cast Your Fate to the Wind
This complex suite from the second album contains original works and covers from Maurice Ravel and Vince Guaraldi.  Ravel's will stipulated that “Bolero” was only to be played by full orchestras and threatened suit, causing many releases to exclude the “Bolero” section.
 
ENTERTAINMENT TRACK:
The theme from the television series “Mission Impossible”
The original television series made its exit in April of 1973.  
 
STAFF PICKS:
Space Oddity by David Bowie
Rob's staff pick is the opening track off Bowie's second studio album.  It was released in July 1969 just prior to the Apollo 11 moon landing.  After the success of the “Ziggy Stardust” album, “Space Oddity” was re-released and hit the charts in April of 1973.  
Little Willy by Sweet 
Brian brings us Sweet's biggest hit, peaking at number 3 on re-release as a non-album single.  The writers, Nicky Chinn and Mike Chapman, wrote a number of rock songs including  many more Sweet songs, Tony Basil's "Mickey," Tina Turner's "Better Be Good to Me," and "Heart and Soul" by Huey Lewis & the News.
Desperado by the Eagles
Bruce features the title track from the Eagles second studio album.  While this may be one of the best known songs from the Eagles, it was never released as a single.  When Linda Ronstadt covered it later in the year, it drew more attention to the group.  This was one of the first songs penned by the songwriting partnership of Don Henley and Glenn Frey.
Hocus Pocus by Focus
Wayne Baxter closes out the staff picks with an instrumental prog rock masterpiece from Dutch group Focus.  You don't hear too many rock songs featuring polka beats and yodeling.  We're doing the shorter U.S. single version, but there's a 10-minute version for those who need even more Focus.
 
COMEDY TRACK:
Freakin' at the Freakers' Ball by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show
This novelty song chronicles a trip to a freaky party, and wraps up the podcast for the week. 
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