Shows
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Music for the Weather ChannelMiniepisode: Music for the Weather Channel by Paul Ciampanelli & Kirk Pynchon2025-05-0527 min
Music Raygun172: Paul McCartney CoversIn this episode, Kirk and Paul take a look at 10 YouTube musicians who cover classic by Wings and Paul McCartney.
Watch the videos featured in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwkBtmWrUCYOUZNIz-VQhk9RRAU2sEY-G2025-02-031h 07Music RaygunMiniepisode: Otherkin 1960s Psychedelic Sunshine PopIn this episode, Kirk gives a final report on his son's university Beatles class, Kirk and Paul review their Spotify Wrappeds, and there's a quiz of music-themed trivia.2024-12-1651 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: A Book About Fleetwood MacKirk just finished reading Mark Blake's "Dreams: The Many Lives of Fleetwood Mac," so in this episode, Kirk and Paul talk about Fleetwood Mac. Then they do a music trivia quiz.2024-12-0227 minMusic Raygun168: Paul HunterIn this episode, Kirk and Paul look at the career of Paul Hunter, who since the mid 1990s has directed more than 100 music videos. We picked 10.2024-11-251h 12
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Taxman or Batman?In this episode, Kirk's son sends an update from his Beatles college course, Kirk and Paul play Boy Band Bank Heist with New Edition, and there's this trivia quiz about music.2024-11-0427 min
Music Raygun165: Michel GondryIn this episode, Paul and Kirk watch music videos directed by filmmaker Michel Gondry ("Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind," "Be Kind Rewind," others) in the 1990s and 2000s.2024-10-141h 24
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Music Knowledge Beamed Directly Into Your EarsIn this episode, Kirk and Paul look for a new introduction to the podcast; Kirk's son checks in about his college Beatles course; and there's a quiz on music trivia.2024-10-0724 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Spotify CrazyIn this episode, Kirk reviews a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, Paul challenges Kirk to another round of Popularity Contest, and Paul attempts candy from the music trivia quiz.2024-09-0932 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: 1st-Name BassistIn this episode, Kirk presents the second part of his two-part book report on the new Journey bio. Then Paul challenges Kirk to a new game. Then it's the music trivia quiz.2024-08-2623 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Literally Corporate RockIn this episode, Kirk and Paul talk about Nolan Thomas and Journey, Kirk plays the Popularity Content game, and blah blah music trivia quiz.2024-08-1226 min
Music Raygun159: Music Videos 1984In this episode, Kirk and Paul explore 10 music videos from the year 1984, "one of the top years in pop music" according to "many" according to Kirk.2024-07-221h 24
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Harriet Wheeler's Ramekin of RanchIn this episode, Kirk and Paul play the laser round, and Kirk tries for candy in the music trivia quiz.2024-07-1525 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Taylor Swift Guava Sao PauloIn this episode, Kirk and Paul talk about ODB recording his feature on the "Fantasy" remix, then Paul plays the laser round and Kirk seeks to keep his streak going in the music trivia quiz.2024-01-0118 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Dough, BroIn this episode, Kirk and Paul talk more about the origins of emo, Kirk plays the laser round, and the music trivia quiz goes back to basics.2023-10-1614 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Me Still RightIn this episode, Paul corrects Kirk and has more to say about Beat Happening, Kirks recs a doc, and Paul tries to extend his winning streak in the music trivia quiz.2023-09-0420 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Every Song Is Like Low-Grade Jackson BrowneIn this episode, Kirk and Paul talk "Daisy Jones & the Six," Kirk plays the laser round, and the Great Music Trivia Slugfest of 2023 continues.2023-05-1529 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Canned Heat or Hot Tuna?In this episode, Kirk and Paul talk about seltzer, Kirk plays the laser round, and Paul tries to win candy with a third straight victory in the music trivia quiz.2023-02-2015 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Target MusicIn this episode, Kirk and Paul eulogize Christine McVie from Fleetwood Mac and Bob from "Sesame Street," then go through their Spotify Wrapped lists for 2022. Finally, Kirk fights like a wombat to hold onto his winning streak in the music trivia quiz.2022-12-1248 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: It's Nonsense, but It's RealIn this episode, Kirk and Paul talk Swifties vs. Ticketmaster. Then a greedy Kirk attempts to build even further on his already out-of-control trivia quiz winning streak while Paul fights valiantly to stop him once and for all.2022-11-2818 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Flip a TableIn this episode, Kirk and Paul recommend "Weird: The Al Yankovic Story" and Ice Spice, respectively. Then Paul revisits the 1992 Kiss 108 concert at Great Woods again. In the music trivia quiz, Kirk tries to add to his streak and win more candy.2022-11-1432 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Respect the GlueIn this episode, Kirk and Paul talk seltzer and boy band boys. Then Kirk tries to win candy in the music trivia quiz.2022-10-3136 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Release It in the FallIn this episode, Kirk and Paul discuss the greatness of Ween, potential new seltzer flavors, and the enduring legacy of Mick Mars. Then Kirk has a chance, for the first time in a long time, to win candy from the music trivia quiz.2022-10-1719 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: 2 Dogs Barking at a BoneIn this episode, Kirk and Paul discuss the legacy of Terry Glaze, Penn State's early '90s boom-bip Beastie Boys-sounding duo Joey Valence & Brae, and a Madison Cunningham coincidence. After that, Paul challenges Kirk to a laser round with a test. Finally, Kirk seeks to get a streak going in the music trivia quiz.2022-10-0327 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: BeigeThis week, Kirk and Paul discuss selling out, Kirk's love for Young Gun Silver Fox, and the genius of Brian Wilson. Then Kirk plays the laser round, and Paul tries to extend his streak in the music trivia quiz.2022-08-2227 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: I Know That Your Favorite Is TerryThis week, Kirk and Paul try some new seltzer flavors, Kirk brings a new game to the miniepisode, and Paul tries to win more candy from the music trivia quiz.2022-07-2533 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Taking the WThis week, Kirk and Paul discuss Andrew Gray's real name, Julien Temple's real daughter, the real online game Heardle, real MTV programming and the future of "The Real World Homecoming." Kirk plays the laser round then tries to build his new streak in the music trivia quiz.2022-06-1323 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Barb, Stacy and LuanaThis week, Kirk and Paul discuss the subtext of "Like a Prayer," Kirk plays the laser round, and the music trivia quiz continues.2022-05-1619 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: A Lagniappe of Folderol and MiscellanyThis week, Kirk and Paul talk about seltzer and backronyms; Kirk challenges Paul to a laser round; and the music trivia quiz rolls ever on.2022-05-0222 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: You Went ApricotThis week, Kirk and Paul talk about the 2022 Super Bowl halftime show. Still celebrating the podcast's fifth anniversary, they count down the top 10 most popular "Music Raygun" episodes by downloads. And Paul tries to build a streak in the music trivia quiz after ending Kirk's last time.2022-02-2825 minMusic Raygun98: Greatest HitsThis week, Kirk and Paul celebrate five years of "Music Raygun." To do that, they're revisiting their greatest hits. Paul picks his five favorite videos that Kirk brought to the show in the past, Kirk picks his five favorite videos of Paul's, and they rewatch them together again. Thanks for listening for the last five years or however long you've enjoyed the podcast. There's plenty more to come.
Video playlist: https://bit.ly/3BPBjhv2022-02-211h 24Music RaygunMiniepisode: Slaves to the FlavesThis week, Paul is caffeinated, Kirk has two recs while Paul has half of one, and Kirk attempts to tie Paul's record for most consecutive wins in the music trivia quiz.2022-02-1432 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Very Snitty Toward Each OtherThis week, Kirk and Paul discuss the book “Sweet Dreams: The Story of the New Romantics” by Dylan Jones, then there’s a laser round, then Kirk fights to extend his winning streak in the music trivia quiz and, thusly, eat more candy.2022-01-1724 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: A Worse-Than-Being-Dead TimelineThis week, Kirk and Paul discuss Rick James’ early career, rank all the songs on the “Purple Rain” soundtrack, and Kirk tries to extend his candy streak in the music trivia quiz.2021-12-1343 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Living That Jog LifeThis week, Kirk and Paul talk about Don Lennon, Kirk challenges Paul to a laser round, and Kirk attempts to earn candy with a third consecutive win in the music trivia quiz.2021-11-2924 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Keeping It A Solid 80This week, Kirk and Paul talk recommendations and revelations, “Trading Card Corner” returns, and Kirk tries to extend his streak in the music trivia quiz.2021-11-1543 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: As Cool as It GetsThis week, Kirk corrects himself for, like, the first time ever; Kirk's kids are cooler than Kirk (or Paul); Paul challenges Kirk to a laser round; and the never-ending music trivia quiz contest continues.2021-11-0128 minMusic RaygunMiniepisode: Brunch With Diamond and PearlThis week, Kirk and Paul are talking about the drummer documentary “Count Me In” on Netflix, Kirk tests Paul with a new game of “Laser Round,” and Paul goes for five wins in a row in the music trivia quiz.2021-09-2026 minMusic Raygun84: Off-Brand Picks 2This week, Kirk and Paul talk about music people might be surprised to know they like in this sequel to the first “Off-Brand Picks” episode. For Kirk, that means music with guitars. For Paul, it means Indonesian folk music with guitars. Plus some other stuff too.2021-08-021h 09Music RaygunMiniepisode: Exquisite PenmanshipThis week, Kirk and Paul talk about Paul's handwriting, hearing "Dueling Banjos" at the supermarket, and opening another factory-sealed pack of ProSet SuperStars MusiCards from 1990. In the music trivia quiz, Paul attempts to increase his winning streak to two.2021-07-2640 minMusic Raygun83: Saxophone 2Early in the show's run, Paul and Kirk put out an episode of "Music Raygun" all about saxophones. That episode became one of the podcast's most popular ever. So on that episode's fourth anniversary, here's finally a sequel. Another episode about sax, sax players, sax solos, everything sax.
This episode's video playlist: https://bit.ly/3hKGtm9 (YouTube)2021-07-191h 32Music Raygun81: College RockWe're back! After a long pause, here finally is the 81st episode of "Music Raygun." In this episode, Paul and Kirk are talking about college rock, the precursor the '90s alternative rock boom, college rock is the left-of-the-dial music favored by college radio DJs (and those willing to stay up late watching MTV) in the '80s. Yes, there is R.E.M. in this episode.2021-06-141h 27
Music RaygunPandemisode: I Can't Feel My Face ValuePaul and Kirk eulogize the late, great Shock G of Digital Underground. Then both of them play the laser round. And finally, they each explore their top five songs you didn't know are secretly about drugs.2021-05-0347 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: Start Getting RealPaul and Kirk conclude their discussion of the original cast of "The Real World." This time, they recap the final three episodes of the new reunion series, "The Real World: Homecoming." Norman struggles. Julie goes from America's sweetheart to America's mom. Becky quadruples down on her terrible opinions. And Heather chops onions. For this final episode of the trilogy, "Top Fives" is about Paul and Kirk's top five songs of 1992.2021-04-191h 34Music RaygunPandemisode: Could You Get the Phone?Paul and Kirk continue their discussion of the original cast of "The Real World." This time, they recap the first three episodes of the new reunion series, "The Real World: Homecoming." How have the roommates changed over 30 years? Eric turned out to be a shaman. Julie turned out to be a real mom's mom. And Becky turned out to be kind of the worst. For this second episode of the trilogy, "Top Fives" is about Paul and Kirk's top five songs of 1991.2021-04-051h 19Music RaygunPandemisode: Return to the Purple OneIt's our birthday! For the "Music Raygun" fourth anniversary show's "Top Fives" segment, Kirk and Paul return again to the theme of their very first episode back in March of 2017. But before that, Paul has a few things stuck in his craw that he wants to speak on in the return of "Don't at Me." And Paul's also in the hot seat when Kirk takes over "Laser Round" for the first time.2021-03-081h 00Music RaygunPandemisode: With Glowing Hearts We See Thee RiseKirk liked playing the laser round so much last time that we brought it back, back, back, back, back again. After that, Paul and Kirk list off their top five artists from the Great White North.2021-02-2257 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: So Dumb, Yet I Sing AlongIt's the 21st biweekly pandemisode, but Paul and Kirk are trying not to think too much about that as they discuss what the soundtrack to "Wet Hot American Summer" would sound like if the movie were made today and set in 2001, and they also each go in on their top five dumb songs that they love unironically. Plus, Kirk steps into the octagon for the first ever "Music Raygun" laser round.2021-02-0848 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: I'm Going to Hire You to Be My MajordomoPaul and Kirk throw it back to the '90s and early '00s when they count down each of their top five songs of all time from the Bad Boy Records label.2021-01-251h 04Music RaygunPandemisode: Every Girl's Name Was StacyPaul and Kirk kick off the new year by talking (more) about the Bee Gee's documentary, eulogizing MF Doom and Shabba Doo, and finally addressing the existence of hair metal.2021-01-111h 20Music RaygunPandemisode: That Ain't ZydecoPaul and Kirk fight Amy Grant haters, hate on Frank Zappa lovers, read some listener mail and hash out their top five hip-hop one-hit wonders.2020-12-1442 min
Music RaygunPandemisode: ThanksgivingHappy Thanksgiving! Paul and Kirk count down their personal Thanksgiving top fives, whatever that means to them.2020-11-2338 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: If I Ever Went Solo, My Favorite MC Would Be MeTOP FIVE RAPPERS OF ALL TIME ON MUSIC RAYGUN! Paul and Kirk discuss each of their favorite MCs, so no surprise this episode deals heavily in '80s and '90s hip-hop. But before that, Kirk recommends a new artist that he likes, taking the conversation on another tangent about backronymed artists' names. And don't at Paul or Kirk about Fleetwood Mac's lyrics or INXS.2020-11-0250 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: Right Here Greater Than Human NaturePaul and Kirk eulogize Eddie Van Halen and Johnny Nash. Kirk talks about an upcoming new jack swing documentary podcast miniseries (even though "Music Raygun" got there first). Hot takes about Bon Scott and whether "Thriller" or "Billie Jean" is the better song. And the guys discuss their top five Beatles covers.2020-10-1955 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: The Pumpkin Spice Latte ShowPaul and Kirk talk about Prince (again), and give the "Don't at Me" business to Queensryche and a taco commercial! Plus a ranking of the best autumn songs from Dream Academy, Nick Drake, the Cure, the Beatles and more!2020-10-0551 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: The Mellow, Ethereal, Rainy-Down PartIs the work of composer John Barry highly detectable, or does Paul have a good ear? What did Kirk think of "808," the documentary about the 808 drum machine? And what are Kirk and Paul's top five favorite band names of all time? Curious about the answers to all of these questions? You won't be after this episode of "Music Raygun."2020-09-0745 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: Living in a TruckPaul and Kirk say hot takes about The Who's "Eminence Front" and which Fine Young Cannibals hit is this goodest thing. Plus they count down their top five songs from their respective birth years, which, if you don't know when they were born, you'll have to listen to find out.2020-08-1046 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: The Rolling Stones, MacklemorePaul and Kirk count down their top five songs other than "Don't You Forget About Me" that appear in John Hughes movies. Plus Kirk recommends new music, Uncle Marc offers his songs that smooth him out, hot takes about the Rolling Stones and Macklemore, and more!2020-07-271h 09Music RaygunPandemisode: Stand-Up Piano Players, MadonnaOn this pandemisode, hot takes about on-their-feet pianists and Madonna's song "Boderline." And Paul and Kirk name their top five songs that must be retired, we never need to hear them again.2020-06-1548 minMusic RaygunPandemisode: Backstreet Boys vs. 'N Sync, Huey Lewis and the NewsOn the pandemisode: SWV on "Survivor," trying to name the Backstreet Boys, the most nostalgic song for Gen Xers, and Paul and Kirk's all-time top five earworms.2020-06-011h 01Music RaygunPandemisode: R.E.M., Berlin vs. Missing PersonsThis week, don't at us about Mike Mills singing lead or the difference between Berlin and Missing Persons. We play "Tribute," our fun tribute bands guessing game. And for "Top Five," the topic is songs about social distancing.
Listen to Paul and Kirk's "Top Five" social distancing songs on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3dPMRnm2020-05-181h 00Music RaygunPandemisode: The Black Eyed Peas, Deer Tick vs. Deerhoof vs. Deerhunter (w/ Tony Ciampanelli)The world's a mess, but your friends Paul and Kirk are here to help you through it. This week we discuss Prince's ouevre; Billboard's top rock songs 2010-19; the rules behind gold and platinum record status; whether or not you should hate the Black Eyed Peas; the differences between Deer Tick, Deerhoof and Deerhunter; and our top five side ones track ones. It's all topped off with another round of the never-ending music trivia quiz.2020-05-041h 15Music RaygunPandemisode: Beyoncé vs. Mariah Carey, Falco vs. Taco (w/ Tony Ciampanelli)The pandemic goes on, but so does the podcast. In addition to regular segments "Don't at Me" and "Prince Tweets 2 U," a socially distanced Paul and Kirk discuss Teddy Riley vs. Babyface, "Let's Go Crazy: The Grammy Salute to Prince" and their respective Top 5 Songs I Used to Hate but Now I Love. Plus, by popular demand, the return of Paul's dad Tony to moderate the music trivia quiz.2020-04-271h 08Music RaygunPandemisode: The Rembrandts, Foreign Lyrics (w/ Tony Ciampanelli)After some time off for social distancing, the boys are back, sort of. Paul and Kirk are recording from their respective homes to bring you an extra-long miniepisode, giving you something to do while you're social-distancing/self-isolating/self-quarantining. There's talk of the recently deceased musicians Adam Schlesinger and John Prine, reflections on Luther Vandross and the "Breakin'" film series, "Don't at Me," "Tribute" and, as a special treat, Paul's dad joins the show to facilitate the music trivia quiz. All that and slightly more on this special pandemisode of "Music Raygun." Keep washing those hands, babes.2020-04-2048 min
Music Raygun76: Cover SongsAn episode about cover songs was long overdue, so here it finally is. Paul and Kirk each discuss five of their favorite cover versions, which ones outshine the originals and which ones are just weird. Covered artists include the Isley Brothers, Marvin Gaye, the Beatles, Lil Nas X, the Cure, Gloria Gaynor, Ike and Tina Turner, the Time and Sonic Youth. Which artists do the covering? Listen and find out. To see the videos featured in this episode, visit musicraygun.com/playlists.2020-01-181h 07
Music RaygunMiniepisode: The Boyboy West Coast and HeartWe're back from the holiday break. Kirk gives Orville Peck a second chance. Hot takes about The Boyboy West Coast and Heart. Paul tries to prevent Kirk from building a winning streak in the music trivia quiz. And, because you demanded it, the return of "Trading Card Corner."2020-01-1332 min
Music Raygun75: Best New Music 2019Just under the wire, Paul and Kirk are sneaking in one last end-of-year best-of list for you. Here you'll find each of their top five — possibly top three? no, top five — new songs/music videos of 2019, counted down. Happy New Year! To see the videos featured in this episode, visit musicraygun.com/playlists.2019-12-3058 min
Music Raygun74: Music MoviesThe idea for this episode has been around for almost as long as the show's existed, and now it's finally here. Paul and Kirk talk about some of their favorite music movies. Not documentaries, and not biopics, but movies that are about fictional bands, music fans, the music industry, etc. Some surprising choices and some strange films to add to your list of must-watch movies. To see the videos featured in this episode, visit musicraygun.com/playlists.2019-12-161h 17
Music RaygunMiniepisode: John Mayer and PrinceKirk and Paul talk about the announced Bee Gees biopic. Hot "Don't @ Me" takes about John Mayer and Prince. And Kirk defends his two-win streak in the never-ending music trivia quiz.2019-11-1115 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Lana Del Rey and Paula AbdulPaul talks about a paperback book Kirk found on the street and gave to him. "Don't @ Me" has hot takes about Lana Del Rey vs. Ann Powers, and the legacy of Paul Abdul's debut album. Paul tries again to build a winning streak in the trivia contest, and Kirk tries again to stop him.2019-09-1620 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Baby Band T-Shirts and Sophie B. HawkinsKirk promotes a new music comedy show, not because he's involved in it (he's not) and not because it's sponsoring the show (it's not), but just because it's so good. Paul follows up on a Roger Miller tune that turned up on a previous miniepisode. On "Don't @ Me," Paul talks about band T-shirts on babies, and Kirk has an opinion about a Sophie B. Hawkins song. After that, it's the return of "Prince Tweets 2 U." And, finally, Paul tries to turn his previous music trivia win into a music trivia winning streak. All that and more in less than 20 minutes...2019-09-0219 min
Music Raygun62: Duets and CollaborationsJust like "Music Raygun" is a collaboration between Paul and Kirk, all the video clips on this episode feature musicians singing or otherwise working together. These duets span the 1960s, '70s, '80s and '90s. One of them has Michael Jackson, and no, it's not a duet with one of his siblings or Paul McCartney. To see the videos featured in this episode, visit musicraygun.com/playlists.2019-07-011h 09
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Extreme and Song LyricsKirk returns to his minepisode chair to weigh in on Paul's music selections in the previous miniepisode. Kirk stans lo-fi hip-hop beats. Also, there's a new "Don't @ Me," and one of these jabronis tries to get a streak going in the music trivia quiz.
CHILLHOP/LO-FI HIP-HOP
ChilledCow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hHW1oY26kxQ
ChillhopMusic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bebuiaSKtU42019-06-1116 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Best New MusicPaul's solo on this miniepisode because he was sick this week and couldn't record with Kirk when they normally would've. In an all-new, one-time-only format, Paul presents some of his favorite records released over the past few months. Check out new music from up-and-coming bands Hi, Gene!, Corner Boys, Roid Rage, Necking, and the Dead Ringers.
Hi, Gene!: https://higene.bandcamp.com
Corner Boys: https://cornerboys.bandcamp.com
Roid Rage: https://roidrageband.bandcamp.com
Necking: https://neckingband.bandcamp.com
The Dead Ringers: https://thedeadringersmd.bandcamp.com
Paul's frequently updated "Best New Music" playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/prc401/playlist/1...2019-05-2718 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Paula Abdul and Vampire WeekendPaul and Kirk discuss their field trip to the Annenberg Space for Photography to see the exhibit "Contact High: A Visual History of Hip-Hop." Also, Uncle Marc checks in about smooth jazz. Under discussion: Paula Abdul's performance at the Billboard Music Awards, and is Vampire Weekend something Kirk would like in a million years? Finally, Paul tries to defend his three-win streak in the music trivia quiz.2019-05-1321 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Beyoncé and MotörheadKirk clarifies Ween and Paul clarifies "Freaks and Geeks." Kirk has a piping hot take about the Knowles sisters. Paul ordains the Sexiest Song Ever. And there's drama in the trivia quiz.2019-04-1523 min
Music Raygun56: PianoIn an episode that focuses on one instrument, Paul and Kirk look closer at some of the great pianists in history. Like Chico Marx. And Dennis DeYoung, of course. Kirk finally realizes, thanks to a little help from "Russian Doll," that he loves Harry Nilsson. Oscar Peterson teaches Dick Cavett to play piano like any of the great jazz pianists. Wolfgang humiliates Antonio right in front of the Holy Roman Emperor. Some snot-nosed college-boy piano player shows Billy Joel how it's done. Plus lots and lots more. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicraygun.com/playlists.2019-04-081h 32
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Vinyl Collectors and Jefferson AirplanePaul and Kirk have more to say about Vanity 6, because of course they do, every episode of this podcast should be about Vanity 6. Also under discussion are the Andantes, Epix's new punk doc, Johnny Rotten, Marky Ramone and Richard Hell. And don't @ them about your vinyl collection or Jefferson Airplane/Starship.2019-03-1821 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Janet Jackson and Song LengthPaul talks about a recent encounter he had with the lead singer of Nada Surf. Then things get vicious in the "Don't @ Me" segment when Kirk attacks Paul personally for no reason. Despite the unprovoked aggression, Paul recovers to defend his music trivia win streak.2019-02-0417 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Paul McCartney and Mumford and SonsPaul and Kirk celebrate the holiday season by discussing the rumored Prince jukebox musical, sharing their galaxy-brain "Don't @ Me" takes, and competing in a over-so-fast trivia "contest" in which one of them fails so badly that most of the quiz is just an expo mission.2018-12-1020 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Halsey and QueenFeeling festive? Kirk and Paul are both excited for the holiday season. Kirk has some thoughts about how getting older has affected his outlook on the holidays ... and on hip-hop. In "Don't @ Me," someone in Kirk's life contributes a hot take, and Paul's take takes list form. Then Paul tries like hell to break Kirk's winning streak in the music trivia quiz. Will he succeed? Probably not.2018-11-2618 min
Music Raygun45: Boy BandsBack in January 2017, your hosts recorded what’s now the show’s lost pilot episode. (Paul accidentally destroyed the file trying to teach himself audio editing.) The subject of that episode: What was the first boy band? And that discussion came from Paul and Kirk having the same debate with their co-workers many months earlier. Now, finally, it’s our long-awaited boy bands episode. This ‘90s-heavy episode takes you from Menudo to One Direction, with most of the big names in between, and some you might’ve forgotten you remember. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicraygu...2018-11-051h 40
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Yes and 'A Star Is Born'A question about a particular song reminds Paul why Twitter is fun, Kirk has a strong opinion about a movie he hasn't seen, Uncle Marc checks in and Paul tries to break Kirk's winning streak in the trivia quiz.2018-10-1518 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Len and Maroon 5Paul and Kirk dip into the listener mailbag. Kirk talks about seeing Anita Baker in concert last month. The "Don't @ Me" takes are short but spicy. And the music trivia quiz this time is... well, just listen.2018-10-0224 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Prince and Smash MouthPaul and Kirk put a bow on the most recent regular episode with a few final thoughts about new jack swing. Kirk goes off the dome with a hot take for "Don't @ Me." Paul wrote his down. Plus: Will Kirk finally break his multiweek losing streak in the music-trivia quiz, or will Paul continue to crush him like a jelly bean?
Thanks to RadioPublic for naming "Music Raygun" one of its Indies to Watch!2018-09-1714 min
Music Raygun41: New Jack SwingThis episode has been a long time coming. Paul and Kirk talked about having new jack swing as a topic back when they first conceived of “Music Raygun.” Why did it take so long to get here? Because this is the most important music in Kirk’s life. And he needed a lot of time to marinate in exactly what he wanted to say about it. So steel yourself, because not every music podcast out there is treating Guy, Today and even Basic Black with this much reverence. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicraygun.com/playli2018-09-101h 45
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Panic! At the Disco, Pet Shop Boys, Blancmange and Wham!Paul and Kirk redress a couple of glaring omissions from a recent episode, answer the question of that "Last American Virgin" soundtrack song, and mark what would've been Michael Jackson's 60th birthday. All that plus "Don't @ Me" and the music trivia quiz.2018-09-0318 min
Music Raygun40: Zbigniew RybczynskiFor the first time on “Music Raygun,” Paul and Kirk have chosen to focus on the work of one particular music video director. In this case, it’s Polish filmmaker Zbigniew Rybczynski. While his isn’t exactly a household name, Rybcynzski’s avant-garde influence was essential to developing music video as an art form during the golden age of MTV in the ‘80s. That’s why he was one of the first winners of the Video Vanguard Award at the MTV Video Music Awards. And, hey, the music ain’t bad either. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit m...2018-08-271h 14
Music Raygun36: Music Videos 1995–97For the first time since the second episode, we’re focusing strictly on music videos from a specific era. In this case, 1995-97. Given the age gap between Paul and Kirk, and their musical tastes, they experienced those years very differently from each other. But that only means this is an especially interesting and eclectic episode. So what were you doing in the mid to late ‘90s? Maybe you’re in for some reminiscing. Or maybe you’ll hear some tunes from 20-plus years ago that are new to you. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicray...2018-07-021h 23
Music Raygun35: DetroitHere’s a new entry in the show’s series profiling music from different cities, states and regions of the USA. This time it’s a long look at Detroit, Michigan, aka Detroit Rock City, aka the Motor City, aka Motown. Detroit is a storied music metropolis that’s generated countless legendary artists. But Paul and Kirk avoid those mythical names to focus on the somewhat lesser-known singers and bands to emerge from the city of the straits. That doesn’t mean this episode doesn’t kick ass, though. Oh, it kicks ass. To see the videos we watch in this episode...2018-06-181h 39
Music RaygunMiniepisode: The Chainsmokers and MeatloafPaul and Kirk answer some listener mail; a brain-melting correction changes everything they thought they knew about the "Boston" cover art; a band name backronym is added to the list of all-time greats; the boys play an all-new game; and the Trivial Pursuit: R.P.M. Edition tie is broken at long last after an honest-to-God music trivia slugfest. All that plus "Music Raygun" theme music composer Bagweed serves "A History of Vile Ents." It's the most loaded miniepisode yet! Download Bagweed's EP, "Now I Am Become Def" at https://bagweed.bandcamp.com.2018-06-1136 min
Music RaygunMiniepisode: The Darkness, GG Allin, Amy Grant and Bob Dylan (w/ Isabel Nelson)Say yay, because Isabel Nelson is back as our guest for a new miniepisode. Paul, Kirk and Isabel kick things off on a fun note by talking about rock-star suicides. Then it's another installment of "Don't @ Me," where Kirk drops one of his spiciest takes yet (but don't @ us about it). And the music trivia expo mission is a nail-biter right down to the last question.2018-05-2821 min
Music Raygun33: Slow Jams (w/ Katie Willert)It’s time to snuggle up with your lovers under those covers, because you’re listening to the Quiet Storm on Music Raygun. Paul and Kirk welcome back Katie Willert to join them once again. This time they’re talking about slow jams, aka baby-making music. What constitutes a “slow jam” is open to interpretation. But one thing’s for sure: If you put the songs from this episode on an unlabeled cassette tape and play it for someone you invited to your dorm room, you’ll be dry-humping in no time. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit...2018-05-211h 36
Music RaygunMiniepisode: Van Halen and 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?'We're back for another miniepisode as Kirk tries to redeem himself following a crushing defeat in the previous trivia game. Also, starting right now, you'll find the "Don't @ Me" segment living here in our miniepisodes. Exciting, right? And listeners want to know: Why does Paul keep calling Kirk "Krag"? The answer to that question and 12 others in this heart-pounding miniepisode of Music Raygun.2018-04-0213 min
Music Raygun24: Los AngelesKirk and Paul already paid tribute to their respective hometowns of Cleveland and Providence, so now it’s time to acknowledge their shared current home: Los Angeles. All the clips in this episode feature bands from LA. But Kirk and Paul skew hard to their different favored genres. Kirk brings rap, R&B and funk to the table. Paul prefers garage rock, punk and power pop. And Angelyne makes an appearance, naturally. It’s a schizophrenic good time. Just like Los Angeles itself! We love/hate you, Butt Town. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicraygun.com...2018-01-151h 24
Music Raygun22: Happy HolidaysMerry Christmas, happy Hanukkah, happy Kwanzaa, wonderful solstice and cool Yule to everyone. We know a lot of people say they hate Christmas music, and to them we ask: Are you listening to the right Christmas music? We hope you’ll find something to like in our holiday playlist, which includes Grace Jones, The Ramones, Kurtis Blow, Kaela Kimura and more. There’s also a holiday treat from the worst boy band of all time. And Paul and Kirk reflect on a year without George Michael in the world. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicraygun.com...2017-12-181h 09
Music Raygun19: Dance (w/ Isabel Nelson)We’re joined by special guest Isabel Nelson, a friend of the show and, like Kirk, a trained dancer. That’s why the focus of this episode is dance. Isabel and Kirk are here to speak intelligently about the art form, with thoughtful comments rooted in their education and experience. Paul’s here too, to say his dumb opinions based on nothing. We’re talking about Gene Kelly, Bob Fosse, Boogaloo Shrimp and many others. It’s an especially visual episode, so be sure to check out the featured playlist for yourself. To see the videos we watch in this episode, v...2017-11-061h 36
Music Raygun18: HalloweenIt’s the most frightening episode of the show yet. Kirk and Paul are celebrating Halloween with the very spookiest and ookiest music clips they could find on YouTube. Some of them are Halloween-themed videos. One’s just something that terrified Kirk for no explainable reason when he was a kid. There’s also another visit with the great Bev and Bob. Listen to this eerie episode to get you in that Halloween mood, but don’t be surprised if by the end of it your hair has turned bone white! To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit mu...2017-10-231h 26
Music Raygun15: PunkKirk had his time to shine with the disco episode, but this one is all Paul’s doing. It’s finally time to talk about punk. Cretins hop, Pistols curse, and GG Allin does, well, the things that GG Allin did before he passed on. Knowing that Kirk doesn’t actually like punk music, Paul made sure to load this episode up with interesting archival material, including a fantastic old interview with John Holmstrom and Legs McNeil, and a look at that infamous “battle of the bands” episode of “CHiPs.” To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicraygun.co2017-09-111h 48
Music Raygun9: Grab BagWe always say every episode of “Music Raygun” features a particular music artist, concept or topic. Well, we lied to you about that. Because this time, our topic is... no topic. It's the first "grab bag" episode. We each chose a few of our favorite videos that, frankly, defy categorization. But they’re too good to ignore just because we normally make a themed podcast. We’ll watch a dance contest, a domestic dispute, and the most coked-out band in the world. Also, Paul convinces Kirk to like punk. To see the videos we watch in this episode, visit musicraygun.com/play2017-06-191h 39