Shows
Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)122: Field Guide to 1984In 1984, Prince, Twisted Sister, and Bruce Springsteen helped fill MTV's programming, while alternative acts like Echo and the Bunnymen and The Replacements filled college airwaves. In MLB, the Detroit Tigers dominated wire-to-wire behind the contributions of MVP Willie Hernández and Kirk Gibson. We cover it all.
2024-11-1058 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)121: Field Guide to 1990In 1990, the shift away from hair metal was nearly complete. While alternative music was about to explode, hip hop and country music began their decade of ascendance, with artists like Garth Brooks and Public Enemy gaining popularity. Meanwhile, in MLB, the Reds and A's were on a collision course with an unexpected outcome.
2024-02-051h 08Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)120: Field Guide to GeorgiaNot many states can match Georgia's production of great musicians and great baseball. From Otis Redding to Hank Aaron, the Allman Brothers Band to Dale Murphy, R.E.M. to Ronald Acuna Jr., Widespread Panic to Andruw Jones, we cover a lot of acreage in our Field Guide to Georgia.
2023-11-101h 25Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)119: Choo-In Hall of Fame InductionsEvery year we hold the Choo-In Hall of Fame inductions, which are intended to recognize artists that are unlikely to be enshrined into the actual Rock Hall, but we feel are equally deserving of the recognition. This year, Levi inducts XTC, Jonathan inducts Terry Allen, and Gabe inducts John Martyn.
2023-05-291h 04Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)118: Catching Up with Cobb & MLB PredictionsIn this episode we catch up with five-time guest Ricky Cobb, creator of Super 70s Sports. Ricky dives into his foray into television with the new Super Maximum Retro Show on Vice TV and shares his thoughts on the new rules for the 2023 MLB season. We then go around the horn sharing our ALCS, NLCS, and World Series predictions for the upcoming season.
2023-03-2857 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)117: Four Score & Seven Beers AgoIn this episode we dig into Score baseball cards, one of the big five card companies of the '80s and '90s. We review Score's designs over 10 years along with some of its most iconic cards. About halfway through the show, we pivot to a discussion about game and concert concessions - both inside and outside the venue.
2023-02-271h 03Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)116: Fleer & Clothing in the ConcourseIn this episode we dig into Fleer baseball cards, one of the big five card companies of the '80s and '90s. We review Fleer's designs over the years and some of its most iconic cards. About halfway through the show, we pivot to a discussion about band concert merch - from the bootleg swag found in the parking lot to the official stuff in the concourse.
2023-01-181h 00Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)115: Field Guide to 1992The year 1992 was superb for both music and Canada. In baseball, the Toronto Blue Jays claimed Canada's first World Series title, while the premium trading card market started to set a new standard for decades to come. In music, dozens of exceptional releases from new and veteran acts filled the shelves of Musicland and Sam Goody.
2022-07-051h 23Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)114: The Donruss DiveIn this episode, we take a deep dive into Donruss baseball cards. We primarily focus on the company's first decade or so of baseball card sets, discussing design motifs, iconic cards, and, of course, Diamond Kings. We even share a few of our favorites from over the years.
2022-03-181h 06Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)113: Choo-In Hall of Fame InductionsEvery year we hold the Choo-In Hall of Fame inductions, which are intended to recognize artists that are unlikely to be enshrined into the actual Rock Hall, but we feel are equally deserving of the recognition. This year, Jonathan inducts Fu Manchu, Levi inducts Robert Palmer, and Gabe inducts Sananda Maitreya. And, for the first time ever, we draft our All-Choo team of former MLB players.
2021-12-151h 31Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)112: Field Guide to the Bay AreaIn this episode, we take you beyond the late '60s and into the heart of the Bay Area's diverse musical landscape. We also round the bases with two of baseball's more successful franchises, the Oakland A's and the San Francisco Giants. From Rickey Henderson to Madison Bumgarner to franchise owners with never-ending wanderlust, we discuss some of the area's baseball history. Then we share some of our favorite music from the area, from the Pointer Sisters to the Doobie Brothers to Metallica to Too Short, and much more.
2021-08-161h 51Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)111: Country Goes CassetteIn this episode, we welcome guest panelist Tom Snyder as we cover country music from the 1980s and into the 1990s - an era that would welcome new trends, slicker production, and early forays into music video. From Urban Cowboy to Curb Records and Hank Jr. to The Judds we discuss the highs and lows of a genre that further cemented its place in the mainstream. Of course, we also attempt to tackle the 800-pound gorilla that is Garth Brooks.
2021-03-011h 15Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)110: Field Guide to the Twin CitiesThe Twin Cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota have been the source of a fair amount of rock and roll and baseball history. Along with guest panelist and musician Paulie Matushek, we cover a bit of each in this field guide. From the Replacements to Prince to Cory Wong, we share some of our favorite music to come from the area. Then we tackle some Twins history, from their championships at the Metrodome to all-time greats like Killebrew, Blyleven, Carew, and Puckett.
2020-10-121h 24Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)109: 100 for 100, Pt. 10We have reached the end of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll. Our shared items include an iconic piece of sports equipment, an important first name in the history of rock guitarists, a team that bounced back from a heartbreaking finish to the season, and much more.
2020-08-241h 18Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)108: 100 for 100, Pt. 9We enter the top 15 of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including a non-traditional instrument in rock, an all-time Chicago Cub, an influential collaboration at an early '90s award show, and much more.
2020-07-241h 11Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)107: 100 for 100, Pt. 8We enter the top 25 of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including band loyalty, a trailblazing music festival, a couple midwestern baseball stadiums, one west coast stadium, and much more.
2020-06-151h 19Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)106: 100 for 100, Pt. 7We continue a countdown of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including a high school tradition in vagrancy, a renewed interest in a rock sub genre, a Sunday childhood tradition, and much more.
2020-05-111h 19Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)105: 100 for 100, Pt. 6We continue a countdown of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including a gut-busting nostalgia sports Twitter account, an all-but-extinct music buying experience, a curse-breaking grand slam, and much more.
2020-04-091h 13Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)104: 100 for 100, Pt. 5We continue a countdown of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including a sinister musical craze, a classic baseball card set and subset, a 1980s music video, a nightly baseball program, and much more.
2020-03-251h 04Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)103: 100 for 100, Pt. 4We continue a countdown of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including bygone eras of ticket outlets and baseball card shops, an emotional supergroup reunion and pennant clinching win, our favorite artists from Illinois, and more.
2020-01-161h 15Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)102: 100 for 100, Pt. 3We continue a countdown of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including a pair of surprisingly popular bands, a too-good-to-be-true record club, an 8-bit baseball game, a baseball card set from the '80s, and more.
2019-12-181h 16Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)101: 100 for 100, Pt. 2We continue a countdown of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll, including a baseball player's unusual equipment choice, a champion of heavy metal, a relatively obscure baseball collectible, a defunct streaming audio service, a record store in Kansas and more.
2019-10-071h 07Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)100: 100 for 100, Pt. 1To celebrate this landmark episode, we begin a countdown of our 100 favorite things about baseball and rock and roll. Whether this is your first episode, your 100th or somewhere in between, thank you for listening.
2019-09-181h 06Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)99: Choo-In Hall of Fame InductionsEvery year we hold the Choo-In Hall of Fame inductions, which is intended to recognize artists that are unlikely to be enshrined into the actual Rock Hall, but we feel are equally deserving of the recognition. This year, Levi inducts Average White Band, Gabe inducts The Tubes and Jonathan inducts Gov't Mule. Warning: No baseball content in this episode.
2019-07-181h 26Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)98: Field Guide to 1989The year 1989 was a heckuva way to close out a decade. Upper Deck disrupted the trading card industry, giving us one of the most iconic baseball cards of all time, while an earthquake shook up the World Series between two Bay-area teams - the Oakland A's and San Francisco Giants. In the music industry, veterans like The Cult, XTC and Chris Rea offered superb albums that may be overshadowed by all-time classics from Tom Petty and the Beastie Boys. But newcomers like Nine Inch Nails, Nirvana, and - yes - even Milli Vanilli, made breakthroughs nobody would soon forget.
2019-06-031h 20Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)97: Opening Day 2019In what has become an MLB Opening Day tradition, we welcome back Ricky Cobb of Super 70's Sports as a guest panelist. In addition to catching up on Ricky's whirlwind year, we critique sports uniforms, discuss underrated '70s ballplayers and share our favorite vintage baseball video games. We then go around the horn to share some storylines we are looking forward to in MLB in 2019 and our playoff and World Series predictions.
2019-03-251h 30Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)96: Field Guide to PhiladelphiaFor our Field Guide to Philadelphia, we welcome Philly natives Craig Rosen and Perry Shall as guest panelists. Craig shares his memories of attending Live Aid at JFK Stadium, while Perry tells us about his involvement in the Philly music scene as both a graphic artist and musician. We all discuss local artists like The Hooters, Hall & Oates, Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes, Marah, The War On Drugs and many more. Craig then tells us about his favorite memories for a Phillies franchise that has experienced many highs and lows over the years.
2019-01-281h 16Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)95: Field Guide to DetroitDetroit, Michigan has exported some of the finest baseball, rock and, ahem, Motown in history. In this Field Guide, we pay homage to the city's World Series champion 1968 and 1984 Detroit Tigers, the franchise's best players (along with our more obscure favorites), old Tiger Stadium and much more. Then we shift to music and share our thoughts on Detroit's place among American music hubs, choose our Detroit "Mount Rushmore" of music and share favorite lesser-known album releases from the city.
2018-11-151h 14Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)94: Field Guide to 1993Joe Carter hit a World Series-winning home run off of Phillies reliever Mitch Williams in Game 6 of the 1993 World Series, making the Blue Jays back-to-back Series champs. And back-to-back winners was a theme carried throughout 1993 by rock's newest heavyweights. Both Nirvana and Pearl Jam followed their previous massive hits (which were still in the charts), with equally acclaimed follow-ups – In Utero and Vs., respectively. But the year was about much more than angst-ridden alternative rock. Hip hop continued its ascendency, both critically and commercially.
2018-10-081h 14Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)93: Field Guide to 1988It's 1988 and the revolution has begun. With debut albums from Soundgarden, Jane's Addiction, NWA and Eazy-E, rock is shedding its hairspray image and rap is getting ready to take over the mainstream. In MLB, a "performance-enhanced" revolution will introduce itself to America's Pastime in the form of The Bash Brothers, as sluggers Jose Canseco and Mark McGwire will lead the Oakland A's to 104 wins and its first AL pennant since 1974. Ultimately, a hobbled Kirk Gibson will provide one of the most iconic World Series moments in history and a lights-out Orel Hershiser will lead the Los Angeles Dodgers to their...
2018-07-091h 15Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)92: 2018 Choo-In Hall of Fame InductionsEvery year around the time of the actual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductions, we hold the Choo-In Hall of Fame inductions. The Choo-In Hall of Fame is intended to recognize artists that are unlikely to be enshrined into the actual Rock Hall, but we feel are equally deserving of the recognition. This year, Gabe inducts folk pioneers Fairport Convention, Levi inducts acoustic guitar virtuoso Michael Hedges and Jonathan inducts multi-faceted bass player Mike Watt. Warning: No baseball content in this episode.
2018-06-0443 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)91: Catching Up with the Not Black CrowesWe examine the ashes of the Black Crowes, as brothers Rich and Chris Robinson have each formed bands that lean heavily on Crowes material. We share our thoughts on Chris's new project, As the Crow Flies, and why he is such a contentious figure. We also discuss Rich's project, Magpie Salute, and our excitement surrounding their future.
2018-05-0139 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)90: Opening Day 2018We celebrate MLB's Opening Day by inviting back Ricky Cobb of Super 70's Sports as a guest panelist. Ricky shares some details on his podcast and upcoming book. We then share some storylines we are looking forward to in MLB in 2018 - from new rules and players to old rivalries. After sharing our ALCS, NLCS and World Series predictions, Ricky shares his favorite 1970's baseball card set. Then Levi reviews his 2018 Topps collection before Gabe opens a brand new pack. Happy Opening Day, folks!
2018-04-021h 29Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)89: Field Guide to 1982To help us recap the year in baseball and rock that was 1982, we welcome guest panelist Paulie Matushek - a lifelong Milwaukee Brewers fan and lead guitarist for the People Brothers Band. Paulie discusses the Brewers team that lost to the Cardinals in the '82 World Series and other baseball memories. We then share some of our favorite music of the year, including the lesser-known releases from ABC, the Blasters, and Phil Lynott, as well as the more popular releases from KISS, Dire Straits, and Michael Jackson.
2018-03-051h 06Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)88: The Art of the Movie SoundtrackWe welcome back filmmaker Adam Galassi as we take a deep dive into movie soundtracks and scores. From original scores like The Godfather, Robin Hood Prince of Thieves and The Shape of Water to group compilations like Judgment Night, Say Anything and Rushmore, we cover quite a bit of ground - referencing more than 60 films over the course of 70 minutes. And we still didn't get to everything we wanted, which explains the rumors of a sequel already in the works. So buckle up and enjoy the ride as we take you through this blockbuster of an episode.
2018-02-051h 11Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)87: Interview with Collin DupuisCollin Dupuis is a two-time GRAMMY-winning mixer and engineer credited on of our favorite albums of 2017, Marty Stuart's Way Out West. Collin has also worked with Dr. John, the Black Keys, St. Vincent, Lana Del Rey and Angel Olsen, as well as other personal favorites like Grant-Lee Phillips, Brownout and Bombino. We chat with Collin about his sessions with Bombino and Marty Stuart, as well as his "old-school" recording techniques, some of his favorites moments in recorded music and DIY recording tips. But to start the show, we discuss the Cubs' top brass insisting Sammy Sosa come clean if he...
2018-01-1651 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)86: End of Year CelebrationWe celebrate the end of 2017 with a chat about our highlights of the year - including album releases, concerts, MLB moments and much more. We also discuss the new Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class of inductees. Thanks for listening in 2017. Here's to another generous year of rock and baseball.
2018-01-021h 12Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)85: Interview with Graphic Designer Margo NahasGraphic designer Margo Z. Nahas is best known for her work on Van Halen's 1984 and Stevie Wonder's Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants, along with albums by Seals & Crofts, Rick James and Autograph. Margo chats with us about the process of designing those albums and much more. She also shares some of her favorite album covers and whether or not connecting with the music on the record is important in the design process – an answer that may surprise you.
2017-12-0455 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)84: Malcolm In the MiddleWe pay tribute to AC/DC founding member Malcolm Young, who passed away at age 64. AC/DC's Back in Black album has sold 23 million units in the United States. As part of the grab bag portion, Gabe and Levi guess other all-time best selling albums in U.S. history. We then discuss bands that, like AC/DC, made the transition from one lead singer to another. But for the heart of the order, we honor Malcolm Young and discuss what made him so special and, relatively speaking, under appreciated. Finally, we share some baseball cards to close the episode.
2017-11-2256 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)83: Tom Petty Around-the-Horn SetlistIn light of Tom Petty's untimely death, we create an around-the horn-setlist to celebrate his deep catalog. The opening grab bag portion of the show includes a debate on whether you'd want to forever wear Dodger or Astro uniforms (if you had to choose one), Metallica's recent appearance in Manchester, England and a trivia question on two former MLB players born on Halloween. We wrap up with a Show Your Cards segment.
2017-10-3056 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)82: Interview with "Let's Play Two" Director Danny ClinchDanny Clinch joined us to discuss his upcoming film, "Let's Play Two", which documents Pearl Jam's two nights at Wrigley Field during the Chicago Cubs run to the 2016 World Series. Danny also shares his connection to baseball and elaborates on another project of his - a documentary on the late Shannon Hoon of Blind Melon. We also have a grab bag of discussions to start the show and a Show Your Cards segment to close the show. Enjoy!
2017-09-2853 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)81: Late Bloomers in Rock & MLBWe are back! In this episode, we catch up on late season MLB developments before delving into a grab bag of topics, including Mark Twain's umpiring debut, expansion team all-timers and feuds in rock. Our main topic covers late bloomers in both rock and MLB. Rock's late bloomers may include artists who we feel produced their best output either late in life or simply later in their career. We then close with a very satisfactory Show Your Cards segment.
2017-09-211h 11Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)80: A Wisconsin State of MindPatrick Sullivan joins us to discuss the Tall Tales Festival, which he organizes and will take place on August 11 and 12 in Burlington, Wisconsin. In the spirit of discovering new music at festivals, we share some of our favorite artists that we discovered in a live setting. Patrick then shares his experiences growing up as a Milwaukee Brewers fan and his take on the current state of the team. We all then show our cards!
2017-07-311h 11Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)79: Field Guide to 1967We celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Summer of Love and all things baseball and rock from 1967. The 1967 MLB season featured the Impossible Dream Boston Red Sox, led by Triple Crown winner Carl Yastrzemski. The Red Sox ultimately faced the Bob Gibson and Orlando Cepeda-led St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. While the year in music was largely dominated by the release of The Beatles' Sgt. Peppers, we discuss some other popular, though overshadowed albums from the year, including LPs by Love, Procol Harum and Bobbie Gentry. We then share some favorite 1967 baseball cards.
2017-07-0555 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)78: Artists to See, Games to Have SeenWe start the show discussing potential MLB expansion cities, gourmet stadium hot dogs (we even build our own) and this date in music history, which leads to a discussion of what one tour we'd want to have caught in the 1980s. Then we each share three bands that are on the top of our to-be-seen checklists. We follow that with three games of MLB's past that we would have liked to have seen in person. Finally, we each share baseball cards.
2017-06-151h 16Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)77: Remembering Chris Cornell & Gregg AllmanWe welcome guest panelist Adam Galassi as we remember the lives and musical contributions of Chris Cornell and Gregg Allman. Helming Soundgarden and the Allman Brothers Band, respectively, both Chris and Gregg are all-time rock icons, and both are deeply entrenched in our musical tastes. We close the otherwise heavy show with a bit of levity, bringing back the Show Your Cards segment. Adam celebrates Star Wars 40th anniversary with a unique trading card, while Gabe, Levi and Jonathan share cards of Seattle Mariners and Atlanta Braves.
2017-05-291h 08Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)76: Choo-In Hall of Fame InductionsWe hold the Choo-In Hall of Fame inductions every year around the time of the actual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductions. The Choo-In Hall of Fame is intended to recognize artists that are unlikely to ever be enshrined into the actual Rock Hall, but we feel are equally deserving of the recognition. This year, Levi inducts guitar god Roy Buchanan, Jonathan inducts Seattle mainstay Mudhoney and Gabe welcomes Tesla. We then conduct our first ever Build-A-Band by holding a fantasy draft which includes all of the 2017 Rock Hall inductees. Jonathan also shares a story of an unlikely encounter with...
2017-05-1559 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)75: Field Guide to Pearl JamPearl Jam nerds unite! Guest panelist Michael Davis joins us for our Field Guide to Pearl Jam on the heels of the band's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We talk about what we feel makes Pearl Jam great, including the band's studio work, live shows, attention to detail and activism. We then hold the requisite Desert Island Album Draft of Pearl Jam LPs. Finally, Michael provides his dream Pearl Jam Bridge Benefit setlist.
2017-04-1755 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)74: 2017 MLB Predictions, 1977 LollapaloozaGuest panelist Ricky Cobb joins us again as we prepare for the 2017 MLB season. Ricky is the host of the Super 70s Sports podcast. In this episode, Ricky helps us decide which current Major Leaguers should be zapped with a '70s ray gun and what acts would've played at a 1977 Lollapalooza festival in Chicago. Finally, we dig deep into predictions for the upcoming 2017 MLB season, including awards and playoff contenders.
2017-03-271h 30Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)73: The Undeniable Optimism of Spring TrainingHope springs eternal, especially at Major League Baseball's Spring Training. In this episode, we recap the MLB offseason and discuss some relatively anonymous Spring Training heroes of yesteryear. Levi shares some Spring Training factoids. Gabe dishes out some Arizona and Florida rock and roll trivia. We close with stories of failed comebacks from Babe Ruth and Bret Saberhagen.
2017-03-0656 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)72: Field Guide to 1970's Country MusicWhile the 1970s were a period of grand experimentation for rock and roll, country music was also going through its own metamorphosis. The social upheavals that molded much of pop music during the 1960s found their way to Nashville and Texas the following decade. We discuss artists ranging from Porter Wagoner, Don Williams and Ronnie Milsap to Waylon, Willie, Jerry Jeff Walker and many, many more. Tag along as we scratch the surface of one of country music's most important decades.
2017-02-0641 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)71: Double Threats: Singing Actors, Acting Musicians and Bob UeckerThe Beatles and Elvis were some of the first two-way entertainers - both on the stage and on the screen. In this episode, we discuss some of the lesser known attempts at juggling the two talents - from Bruce Willis and Don Johnson to David Johansen and Dwight Yoakam. We also discuss the various baseball players who have also taken the plunge into acting, notably Bob Uecker and various Mets and Yankees on Seinfeld. We wrap up with a casting of the 2016 MLB season, calling on the likes of Ryan Reynolds and Alec Baldwin to help fill out our film...
2017-01-1641 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)70: Field Guide to Power Trios in Rock and OutfieldsThree is the magic number for this episode. We start by discussing some of the most significant trios to ever play together in MLB outfields, from the 1961 New York Yankees to the 1995 Cleveland Indians and several before and since. We then discuss power trios in rock, including all-time bands like Rush and Nirvana, as well as lesser known acts like Radio Moscow and Taste.
2017-01-021h 02Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)69: MLB Hot Stove, Band Trades, 2016 in ReviewWe recap the MLB transactions during the hot stove season, which included all three of our teams. We then pitch trades where we suggest swapping musicians between bands. Finally, we bid adieu to the often soulless year that was 2016. Alas, we find the high points, recapping our favorite moments in MLB, album releases and live shows from the year.
2016-12-1259 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)68: MLB Awards, Music MVPs, Hidden Tracks, Offseason NeedsWe kick back and have some fun discussions about the recent MLB awards, including Kris Bryant's MVP and a continuing string of Dodgers winning Rookie of the Year. We then offer our own MVPs of rock for 2016. On the heels of a significant hidden track discovery on Pink Floyd's new box set, we share our favorite hidden tracks. Finally, we go around the horn discussing our MLB teams' offseason needs.
2016-11-2150 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)67: The Cubs Win the World Series, Black Crowes Keyboardist Eddie Harsch PassesNot sure if you heard, but the Chicago Cubs won the World Series. Lifelong Cubs fan Levi Leach shares his emotions during the roller coaster ride. We then remember Black Crowes keyboardist Eddie Harsch, who passed away at age 59.
2016-11-0733 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)66: MLB 2016 and Desert Trip Reviews, Rock Hall NominationsWe kick off the show talking baseball, covering the playoffs and some notable stats from the 2016 season. We then discuss the Desert Trip music festival that was held over two weekends in Indio, California. To close, we give our votes for each of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees, which were announced last week.
2016-10-2455 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)65: Desert Trip Around the Horn Setlist ExtravaganzaIn anticipation of the incredible Desert Trip music festival, we team up to create dream setlists for Paul McCartney, Neil Young, The Rolling Stones and Roger Waters. Check out episodes 55 and 64, respectively, for our Bob Dylan and Who setlists. Get ready for our requests for deep cuts and incredible collaborations.
2016-10-0356 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)64: Scouting The WhoWe welcome uber Who fan Betsy Blodgett for this special episode devoted to The Who. We examine Pete Townshend's perfectionist behavior, Roger Daltrey's voice, John Entwistle's underrated songwriting and the impact of Keith Moon's death. We also have a fantasy island album draft and create a dream setlist.
2016-09-1949 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)63: Field Guide to 1981We look back on 1981, a year that split us in two. In baseball, a mid-season strike quite literally split the MLB season into two halves, resulting in playoff and non-playoff teams that defied logic. Popular music was also split in two as a pair of momentum-gaining genres - metal and new wave - began to define the decade.
2016-09-0554 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)62: Interview with Comedian Ryan BuddsRyan Budds is a comedian and writer who has recently launched his own podcast, Trivia With Budds. We chat with Ryan about getting started in comedy, opening for Dennis Miller and dealing with hecklers. Ryan also discusses his new podcast, Trivia With Budds, which takes his bar show to the internet. We also try stumping Ryan with a few trivia questions of our own. This interview has a bit of everything and culminates in a live rodent invasion in Ryan's backyard.
2016-08-2236 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)61: Interview with Fu Manchu Guitarist Bob BalchBob Balch joined Fu Manchu in 1996 as the lead guitarist. He's since founded Sun & Sail Club and the guitar lesson website PlayThisRiff.com. In our interview, Bob discusses his Fu Manchu sound, early musical influences and helping design a custom axe for Reverend Guitars. He also shares stories about his first guitar lessons as a kid and attending California Angels baseball games with his dad, who once got to hang with Leslie Nielsen in an airport.
2016-08-0130 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)60: Interview with Drummer Joe WintersDrummer Joe Winters helped found The Steepwater Band in 1998. By 2005, the band was headlining the Chicago Blues Festival and touring throughout the United States and Europe, sharing the stage with Gov't Mule, Buddy Guy, Wilco and many more. In our interview, Joe discusses the making of the band's new album, Shake Your Faith, along with the advantages of getting the band's music licensed for use on TV and in film. Joe also shares stories about trading phone calls with Eddie Van Halen and being a bat boy for the 1983 Chicago White Sox.
2016-07-1830 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)59: Field Guide to 1976Musician and music connoisseur John White joins us as a guest panelist for the entire episode, as we look back on the year of our bicentennial, 1976, just in time for Independence Day. The Cincinnati Reds, better known as the Big Red Machine, were on their way to a second straight World Series title, led by Joe Morgan, Johnny Bench and George Foster. Sluggers Mike Schmidt and Dave Kingman were mashing in the National League, while rookie pitching phenom Mark Fidrych was taking the American League by storm. Popular music had its own mashers in 1976 – namely, prog and its keyboardists. Progressive roc...
2016-07-0452 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)58: Field Guide to 1996We look back on 1996 - a pivotal time for our music tastes and the beginning of a dark time for baseball. While we listened to new albums by Pearl Jam, the Black Crowes and Rage Against the Machine back then, we've since grown fond of Olivia Tremor Control, Zakk Wylde and Cowboy Junkies. The start of MLB's super-steroid era resulted in ridiculous numbers across the league. Chris Hoiles hit the only cliche game-winning grand slam in MLB history and a relatively obscure pitcher won the AL Cy Young award. Oh yeah, and the Yankees won their first of a few...
2016-06-2043 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)57: Field Guide to 1986We look back on 1986 - a fascinating year in rock and roll and Major League Baseball. While we listened to David Lee Roth, Poison, and Georgia Satellites back then, we've since grown fond for New Order, Steve Earle and Kraftwerk. Peter Gabriel and Dire Straits videos dominated MTV and still hold up today. In Major League Baseball, we dig deeper on the dominance of and challenges facing the 1986 World Series champion New York Mets and its eclectic mix of characters, including Dwight Gooden, Keith Hernandez and Gary Carter.
2016-06-0651 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)56: Collecting Baseball Cards Between 1986 and 1993In this week's episode, we remember collecting baseball cards as kids - from about 1986-1993. Gabe remembers starting with 1986 Topps, while Jonathan remembers stocking up on Mike Greenwell and Ellis Burks cards. Levi throws some professional card trading lingo around and recalls Beckett price guides of yore. It all makes for a lot of fun running down memory lane.
2016-05-0942 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)55: Scouting Bob DylanIn this week's episode, we give the Bob Dylan scouting retrospective he's earned. We start with a quick overview of misconceptions and misgivings about Dylan. We then have a fantasy island album draft. Finally, with the rumors of Dylan playing a star-studded rock god festival we've dubbed Ol'chella, we create an around-the-horn dream Dylan setlist for the gig.
2016-05-0245 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)54: MLB's Surprises and the Passing of PrinceIn this week's episode, we quickly catch up on the biggest surprises in Major League Baseball's first few weeks, including the underperforming Astros and the dominating Nationals. We then discuss the legacy of Prince, which leads to a discussion about the control an estate can have over a musician's unreleased recordings.
2016-04-2535 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)53: Steve Miller Vs. the Rock Hall, We Induct Our Newest Choo Hall MembersIn this week's episode, we discuss Steve Miller's scathing remarks about the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, his induction by the Black Keys and their response. We also induct our second class of members into the Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo Hall of Fame, which is devoted to musicians we feel are deserving to be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, but unlikely to gain entry.
2016-04-1829 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)52: MLB Opening Week, Pearl Jam & Guns N' Roses Tour ReportsIn this episode, we recap the first week of the Major League Baseball season, including the Chicago Cubs and Trevor Story. Jonathan then gives his eye-witness report after attending the first two shows of Pearl Jam's U.S. tour in Florida. We close the show by recapping the surprise Guns N' Roses gig at L.A.'s Troubadour and the first two scheduled dates in Las Vegas.
2016-04-1137 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)51: MLB Opening Day & 2016 PredictionsIn this very special super-sized episode, RRSSC welcomes back Ricky Cobb to help us ring in Major League Baseball's Opening Day. We trade our playoff predictions for the 2016 season, along with our best guesses for the MVP and Cy Young awards. We also weigh the pros and cons of MLB's evolving Opening Day to include more Sunday games before the traditional Monday openers.
2016-04-041h 06Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#50: Get Off My Lawn!In this episode, we discuss the latest rumors of Axl Rose joining AC/DC for the remaining dates of their tour and the other drama surrounding the band over the last few years. We then talk about Lollapalooza's 25 year history and its evolution in light of recent criticisms of mega-festivals. To close, we speculate on the impact of new smokeless tobacco bans in some Major League Baseball cities.
2016-03-2833 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#49: Sabermetricians of RockIn this episode, we remember the late Keith Emerson, founding member of Emerson, Lake and Palmer, who passed away at age 71. Levi gives his report from the Cubs' Spring Training game he attended in Mesa, Arizona. And we debate whether Spring Training games should be played in the evening, as some players suggest.
2016-03-2132 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#48: This Changes Nothing, Chase UtleyIn this episode, we welcome special guest Steve Hofstetter. Steve is a comedian and host of Major League Podcast. Steve talks about the early success of his podcast, his childhood Mets fandom and working with the Yankees during the team's 2000 World Series victory over the Mets. We also ask Steve about his veteran experience at throwing out first pitches and which teams he sees as contenders in 2016.
2016-03-1450 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#47: Openings and ClosingsIn this episode, we discuss Sturgill Simpson's new song and what it means to be an "outlaw" country artist. We then discuss Graham Nash's recent remarks about the demise of Crosby, Stills and Nash. On the heels of the announcement of Alice In Chains opening for Guns N' Roses, we share our most memorable opening acts from past shows. Finally, as Spring Training kicks into gear, we do a refresher on the MLB free agent moves this past offseason.
2016-03-0738 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#46: Management MaterialIn this episode, we discuss Major League Baseball's rule changes for 2016, Yoenis Cespedes wearing his hat backwards and the types of managers that question such actions of their players. This leads to our discussion of best managers in baseball and what, exactly, makes a good manager. We also share releases from Pat Matheny, Yuck, Pinkshinyultrablast, Mondo Drag and a bunch of retrowave bands.
2016-02-2947 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#45: The Fine Art of the TributeRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo has reformatted to shorter episodes and full webcam video - once again - on our YouTube channel! In this episode, we discuss Lady Gaga's David Bowie tribute at the GRAMMYs, the Grateful Dead tribute by indie bands and the Pitchfork Festival lineup slated for July in Chicago. As pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training, we also eagerly jump into prognostications, fueled by Jonah Keri's SI.com MLB preseason power rankings.
2016-02-2241 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#44: Twenty-Two, Squirrely and LoudRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo has reformatted to shorter episodes and full webcam video - once again - on our YouTube channel! In this episode, we chat with guitarist and songwriter Marc Ford. Marc played with The Black Crowes before starting his formidable solo career. He discusses grass roots record production, the evolution of the music business and his guitar technique. He also discusses collaborating with Dickey Betts and Mike Campbell, early music influences, and attending some of the first GNR club shows.
2016-02-1529 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#43: On Cosmic RevolutionariesRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo has reformatted to shorter episodes and full webcam video - once again - on our YouTube channel! In this episode, we chat with Calixte Stamp, who married Chris Stamp - an original manager for The Who - in 1979. Calixte discusses Chris' work with The Who, Jimi Hendrix and more. She also talks about living in New York City and visiting CBGB's, The Cotton Club and other historic venues.
2016-02-0831 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#42: Three Snakes and One DrummerRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo has reformatted to shorter episodes and full webcam video - once again - on our YouTube channel! In this episode, we chat with Steve Gorman, the host of Steve Gorman SPORTS! and drummer for the Black Crowes and Trigger Hippy. He discusses the Baltimore Orioles, rediscovering Devo, touring with David Bowie and recording with Warren Zevon on his final album.
2016-02-0140 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#41: Hail, Hail the Lucky OnesRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo has reformatted to shorter episodes and full webcam video - once again - on our YouTube channel! In this episode, we discuss the Mets re-signing of Yoenis Cespedes, the passing of rock legend Glenn Frey and we create our dream setlist for Pearl Jam at Bonnaroo 2016 to be held in June.
2016-01-2548 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#40: Safe Travels, StarmanRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo has reformatted to shorter episodes and full webcam video - once again - on our YouTube channel! In this episode, we discuss the MLB free agent signings of Chris Davis and Ian Kennedy. We then move on to the rumored Bonnaroo lineup, which includes Pearl Jam, LCD Soundsystem and The Dead & Co. Finally, we remember an absolute rock legend in David Bowie.
2016-01-1844 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#39: Let Lemmy Watch Your PurseRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo has reformatted to shorter episodes and full webcam video - once again - on our YouTube channel! In our first episode of 2016, we discuss the MLB Hall of Fame vote, Ken Griffey Jr., Mike Piazza, Bonds, Clemens and more. We also discuss the legacy of Lemmy from Motorhead. To close, we contemplate the rumored Guns N' Roses reunion lineup and what it will take to entice us to attend a show.
2016-01-1136 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#38: In With the NewIn the Leadoff, we discuss the Cubs big acquisitions and the recently announced Rock Hall inductees. In the Heart of the Order, we discuss our favorite albums of 2015, including Levi's biggest bin finds of the year. In the Bullpen Session, we share music from Professor Longhair, She & Him, and Steve Hillage.
2015-12-231h 06Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#34: Scopes Trial RepriseIn the Leadoff, we discuss the MLB playoffs, including the runs made by Levi's Cubs and Jonathan's Royals. In the Heart of the Order, we discuss Southern Rock and its evolution over the last 45 years. In the Bullpen Session, we share music from The Blasters, John Hammond and Marty Stuart.
2015-10-201h 06Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#32: Two Sides of the CroonIn the Leadoff, we discuss the MLB playoff races, Levi attending NedFest and Gabe looking forward to Riot Fest. In the Heart of the Order, we discuss solo projects in rock - everything from George Harrison to Jenny Lewis. In the Bullpen Session, we share music from Steve Gunn, Neil Diamond and Royal Headache.
2015-08-311h 02Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#25: You're Welcome, Jim MartinIn the Leadoff, we discuss the baseball season thus far, the never-ending Motley Crue farewell tour and the Rock Hall induction ceremonies. In the Heart of the Order, we induct our own Shoo-In Hall of Fame bands. In the Bullpen Session, we recommend music from Bop English, Jaco Pastorius and The Blank Tapes.
2015-04-2648 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#23: Really Tough DecisionsIn the Leadoff, we discuss the latest in Spring Training developments. In the Heart of the Order, we continue our Guitarist Bracket and work our way down to the final four, while pitting some of rock's best guitarists against each other. May vs. Frampton, Cobain vs. Richards, Page vs. EVH, and more!
2015-04-021h 12Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#22: It's Not Art - It's A CompetitionIn the Leadoff, we discuss the latest in Spring Training developments. In the Heart of the Order, we introduce our first Guitarist Bracket and plow through a round of 32 matchups pitting some of rock's best guitarists against each other. Knopfler vs. Harrison, Page vs. Weir, Townsend vs. Iommi, and more!
2015-03-241h 21Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#20: We've Got Your Back, BeyIn the Leadoff, we discuss the lameness of Kid Rock, his comments on Beyonce and Spring Training position battles for the Cubs, White Sox and Royals. In the Heart of the Order, we discuss the news of the record industry syncing release dates to Fridays worldwide and other promotions the industry has attempted over the years. In the Bullpen Session, we recommend music by Return to Forever, Beck and Lo-Pan.
2015-03-0357 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#19: Texas - Beyond AstrodomeIn the Leadoff, we discuss pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training, nostalgia rock tours, brisket and the personal impact of Texas baseball and music. In the Heart of the Order we welcome special guest Will Johnson (Centro-matic, South San Gabriel), a musician and artist from Denton, Texas. Will discusses the chances for his St. Louis Cardinals this season, his baseball paintings and his current living room tour. In the Bullpen Session, we recommend music by native Texas bands Centro-matic, Wo Fat and The Sword.
2015-02-2459 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#12: Of Bob Seger and BullpensWe start with discussing the improbable run of the Kansas City Royals into the World Series. Our main discussion covers proposed changes to baseball and rock concerts to make both more enjoyable experiences.
2014-10-211h 02Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#09: Of Gary Busey and Lenny DykstraWe discuss our favorite and least favorite rock biopics and baseball films. What did Sid and Nancy and Field of Dreams do right that Walk the Line and Ray did wrong? What would it take to make an Alice Cooper or 1989 Oakland A's movie?
2014-08-281h 01Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#08: Of Jorge "George" Bell and Steve GormanWe discuss the moves made - or not made - by the White Sox, Cubs and Royals at the MLB trade deadline. In this spirit, we also shake up the rosters of some of rock history's greatest bands and discuss the potential results. Finally, we discuss infamous trades in the history of our favorite teams.
2014-08-0254 minRock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#07: Of Ratt and Rick SutcliffeWe reveal our All-Star teams of rock. Levi mourns the loss of Jeff Samardzija, traded by the Cubs. We discuss the merits of the MLB All-Star game.
2014-07-191h 05Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#06: Of John Fogerty and Chris SaboWe discuss the first half of the MLB season, Bonnaroo 2014 and Bonnaroo's history. We create our own Bonnaroo lineups. We also discuss significant, though overlooked, rock music festivals of the past.
2014-07-011h 12Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#05: Of Parquet Courts and Scott BorasWe hold a fantasy draft consisting of young bands that we're ready to commit to for our rock music franchises. We also discuss past MLB draft busts and review the 2014 MLB Draft selections by the Cubs, White Sox and Royals.
2014-06-161h 12Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#04: Of Chris Robinson and Manny RamirezWe discuss the merits of VIP packages in both baseball and rock concerts. We also discuss the evolution of etiquette and expectations of these live experiences.
2014-05-261h 03Rock & Roll Shin-Soo Choo (Audio)#03: Of Jose Canseco and Terence Trent D'ArbyWe discuss guilty pleasures in both baseball and rock fandom.
2014-05-121h 05