Shows
Backwards Beats PodcastCan - Ege Bamyasi (#454)This week on Backwards Beats, we dive into Ege Bamyasi by Can the 1972 release that helped define krautrock (aka “cosmic rock”) and quietly influenced decades of music to come.
Recorded in Cologne using minimal gear and maximum experimentation, the album blends hypnotic grooves, tape-era production tricks, improvisation, and unconventional song structures. With vocalist Damo Suzuki delivering abstract, mantra-like vocals, and drummer Jaki Liebezeit locking into impossibly tight yet fluid rhythms, Ege Bamyasi feels both locked-in and untethered.
From the near-10-minute opener “Pinch” to the explosive pulse of “Vitamin C,” this record balances jam-band spontaneity with razor-s...
2026-02-171h 23Backwards Beats PodcastBo Diddley - Two on One (#455)Dan and Carl explore Bo Diddley / Go Bo Diddley – Two On One, diving into the foundational sound that helped shape rock and roll. The conversation focuses on Bo Diddley’s signature rhythm, his influence on generations of artists, and how these early recordings balance innovation with repetition. The hosts examine the historical context of late-1950s rock, the role of Chess Records, and how Bo Diddley’s approach to groove, performance, and songwriting helped define the language of rock music that followed.
Key Points
The “Bo Diddley beat” as a defining rhythmic innovation and its roots in Afro-Cuban and blues...
2026-02-101h 29
Backwards Beats PodcastCivil Disobedience - Songs to Revolt To pt. 1Music is a fantastic vehicle for communication, both verbal and nonverbal. Music can cause joy or invoke anger. Music can stand as a rallying cry. In this Sidetrax episode, we dive into songs of civil disobedience.
#civildisobedience #resist #protestsongs
2026-02-0644 minBackwards Beats PodcastAl Green - Greatest Hits (#456)Dan and Carl dig into Al Green’s Greatest Hits (1975)—a deceptively “easy” entry on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list (#456). What starts as a discussion of timeless soul classics quickly turns into a deeper look at Al Green’s singular vocal style, the Hi Records sound, and the musicianship that makes these songs feel effortless while being anything but. Along the way, they explore Green’s gospel roots, his peak creative run in the early ’70s, and the complicated personal history that sits behind some of the most romantic music ever recorded.
Key Points
Why a greatest h...
2026-02-031h 20Backwards Beats PodcastSinéad O'Connor - I Do Not Want What I Haven't Got (#457)In Episode 56 of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Sinéad O’Connor’s 1990 breakthrough album I Do Not Want What I Haven’t Got, ranked #457 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. The hosts explore O’Connor’s uncompromising artistry, emotional directness, and complex relationship with fame, while unpacking the musical and cultural impact of her most famous recording, “Nothing Compares 2 U.”
Along the way, they examine her vocal technique, production choices, and fearless creative risks, including the album’s striking a cappella title track. The conversation balances historical context, music theory, and persona...
2026-01-271h 45Backwards Beats PodcastJason Isbell - Southeastern (#458)In this episode of the Backwards Beats Podcast, Carl and Dandive into album #458 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list: Jason Isbell’s 2013 masterpiece, Southeastern. The duo explores Isbell’s journey from his roots in Alabama to his tenure with the Drive-By Truckers and his eventual path to sobriety, which served as the catalyst for this deeply personal record. Featuring guest commentary on vocal techniques from director Julia Cowles, the episode breaks down the album’s shifts from haunting folk narratives to gritty Americana.
Music Referenced
Decoration Day by Drive-by Truckers
the Dirty South by Drive-by...
2026-01-202h 14Backwards Beats PodcastKid Cudi - The Man on the Moon: The End of the Day (#459)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Kid Cudi’s 2009 debut Man on the Moon: The End of Day, album #459 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums list. They unpack why this record mattered at the time, how Cudi became one of the architects of “emo rap,” and whether the album’s mix of vulnerability, psychedelia, and pop-rap ambition still holds up. Along the way they debate Kanye’s influence, Cudi’s limitations as a vocalist, and whether the album works better as a full narrative arc than as a collection of individual tracks.
Key Points
Kid Cu...
2026-01-131h 59Backwards Beats PodcastMelodrama by Lorde (#460)In Episode 53 of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl kick off Season Three by diving into Lorde’s Melodrama—album #460 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. The conversation frames Melodrama as both a breakup record and a loose concept album, tracing the emotional arc of a single house party from start to finish. Along the way, they unpack Lorde’s rapid rise, her relationship with pop stardom, and how this album cemented her voice as one of the defining sounds of modern pop.
The episode balances context and critique, looking closely at Lorde’s songwritin...
2026-01-061h 47Backwards Beats Podcast2025 A Year In Music - Reflections on Seasons 1 & 2This special Year in Music Highlights episode of Backwards Beats is a curated reaction show built from our 10 most popular episodes of the year. For each episode, we selected one standout moment the clip that generated the strongest response, and then reflect back on what we learned.
Join us as we reflect on our journey through podcasting in 2025.
The highlights come from episodes covering:
Arcade Fire (Funeral), Sheryl Crow, Selena, Lady Gaga, Bonnie Raitt, Muddy Waters, John Mayer, Harry Styles, and LTJ Bukem.
This episode works as:
• A best-of entry point fo...
2025-12-301h 20Backwards Beats PodcastAce Frehley Remembered (Sidetrax)In this Sidetrax Episode, Dan is flying solo digs in to Ace Frehley's amazing contributions to the original 6 KISS records. This episode features a cover of the song Fractured Mirror.
Go over to our Patreon for the full - uncut episode at https://patreon.com/backwardsbeatspodcast.
2025-12-2331 minBackwards Beats PodcastThe Isley Brothers - If You Were There - Carl's CoversIt's that time again! Carl will roll for his fate and create a cover off one of the albums reviewed in season 2! Come check out his process and hear what his silly mind comes up with in this exclusive Sidetrack season short!
2025-12-1735 minBackwards Beats PodcastToo Much Stereo - The Urge (Convince Me!)In this Side Tracks episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tear into Too Much Stereo (2000) by The Urge—a band they both respect but feel never got the recognition their musicianship deserved. They explore the group’s blend of ska, rock, punk, reggae, and 80s–90s alt flavors, and break down why this record is so energetic, so well-played, and unfairly overlooked. Between deep dives into bass lines, vocal technique, and production choices, they also wander into some unhinged tangents (including what you can hide inside a turkey), plus plenty of 311 references and genre-nerd enthusiasm.
Key Points
Album...
2025-12-0959 minBackwards Beats PodcastDiscipline by King Crimson (Convince Me!)Dan and Carl dive into Discipline by King Crimson for a Convince Me! episode. Dan brings the 1981 reinvention-era Crimson to Carl, who’s heard of the band more than he’s actually heard the band. What follows is a deeply nerdy, musically technical, and surprisingly heartfelt discussion about prog rock, mis-buying albums as teenagers, King Diamond confusion, interlocking guitar madness, Adrian Belew’s vocal chops, Fripp’s strict musical geometry, and why this seven-track album still hits like a brick of ideas.
They break down each song, calling out rhythmic trickery, Chapman Stick wizardry, Talking Heads DNA, Zappa-es...
2025-12-0254 minBackwards Beats Podcast666 The Number of the BEAT (BONUS)In this Sidetrax episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl explore the pull of songs built on 6/8 and other six-based feels. They break down why this meter hits differently, how it shapes emotion and groove, and why it shows up everywhere from soul classics to modern pop. The discussion moves from music theory basics to a curated tour of standout tracks across decades, plus a few surprises, fake sponsors, and a live listening reaction.
Key Points
How 6/8 differs from 3/4 and 4/4, and why the “feel” matters more than the notation.
Why the six-feel creates sway, momentum, and emotional weight.
Hist...
2025-11-251h 00Backwards Beats PodcastBon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago (#461)Episode 46 dives deep into For Emma, Forever Ago by Bon Iver — an album born from heartbreak, illness, and isolation in a Wisconsin cabin that has since become modern indie folklore. Dan and Carl unpack the myth and the reality behind Justin Vernon’s retreat, his shift into the Bon Iver moniker, and how a small self-released record snowballed into a career-defining breakthrough.
The guys also weave in their trademark sidebars: regional listener stats, sausage and kielbasa taxonomy, chicken-butchering trauma, and seasonal talk of Advent calendars and questionable Christmas songs. It’s all here.
The Best Ch...
2025-11-181h 39Backwards Beats PodcastThe Flying Burrito Brothers- A Gilded Palace of Sin (#462)In this episode, Dan and Carl dive deep into The Gilded Palace of Sin — the 1969 debut from The Flying Burrito Brothers, ranked #462 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Formed by Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman after leaving The Byrds, this record pioneered the fusion of country, rock, and soul — laying the foundation for Americana and alt-country decades before those genres had names.
Through witty banter, historical context, and musical analysis, the hosts unpack the album’s cosmic twang, its groundbreaking use of pedal steel, and the strange brilliance of songs like “Hot Burrito #1” and “Sin City.” Alo...
2025-11-111h 43Backwards Beats PodcastLaura Nyro - Eli and the Thirteenth Confession (#463)Dan and Carl dive deep into Laura Nyro’s Eli and the Thirteenth Confession, the 1968 album sitting at #463 on Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Known for her blend of pop, jazz, gospel, and soul—and her influence on artists like Elton John and The 5th Dimension—Nyro’s work is both ambitious and divisive. The hosts unpack her fearless songwriting, theatrical delivery, and chaotic arrangements while wrestling with whether the record truly earns its critical acclaim. Along the way, they highlight standout musicians like bassist Chuck Rainey and arranger Charlie Calello, compare the album’s st...
2025-11-041h 31Backwards Beats PodcastThe Isley Brothers - 3+3 (#464)Dan and Carl dive into 3 + 3, the 1973 soul-funk classic by The Isley Brothers—album #464 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. This episode explores the band’s transformation from their doo-wop roots to a fully self-contained funk powerhouse. From iconic covers like “Summer Breeze” and “Listen to the Music” to original gems like “That Lady” and “What It Comes Down To,” the hosts unpack the musicianship, harmonies, and sonic evolution that made this record a defining statement for the group. Expect laughs, deep dives into theory, and the usual mix of heartfelt appreciation and comedic tangents that make Backwards Beats a must...
2025-10-281h 07Backwards Beats PodcastKing Sunny Ade - The Best of the Classic Years (#465)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl journey into the rhythmic heart of Nigeria with King Sunny Adé’s landmark compilation The Best of the Classic Years. The hosts unpack how juju music’s hypnotic grooves and layered percussion shaped one of Africa’s most enduring musical legacies. From the celebratory pulse of “Sunny Ti De” to the sprawling “Synchro System,” they explore how Adé fused tradition and modernity—bridging Yoruba roots and global reach.
Listeners will discover how Adé’s early innovations—talking drums, pedal steel guitars, and lush vocal harmonies—laid the groundwork for generations of Africa...
2025-10-211h 34Backwards Beats PodcastBlack Uhuru - Red (#466)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Black Uhuru’s 1981 masterpiece Red — the album that carried reggae into a new decade following Bob Marley’s passing. The duo explores how Michael Rose, Puma Jones, and Duckie Simpson, supported by legendary rhythm section Sly & Robbie, shaped a sound that fused roots reggae, dub experimentation, and modern production. With tight grooves, deep social commentary, and forward-thinking arrangements, Red defined a new era of conscious Jamaican music.
Key Points
Background & Lineup:
Originated in Kingston’s Waterhouse district; lineup solidified with Michael Rose, Puma Jones, and Duckie S...
2025-10-141h 25Backwards Beats PodcastMaxwell - BLACKsummer'snight (#467)In Episode 40 of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl unpack Maxwell’s BLACKsummers’night (2009) — the smooth, soulful comeback that reignited his career after an eight-year hiatus. They trace Maxwell’s journey from his neo-soul beginnings in the ’90s to the carefully crafted emotional world of this album, exploring how he redefined R&B’s sound in a digital era. The hosts dive into the record’s warmth, live instrumentation, and deeply intimate production style while reflecting on its place in both Maxwell’s trilogy and the wider soul landscape.
Key Points
BLACKsummers’night marked Maxwell’s return after 2001’s Now and introduced the...
2025-10-071h 28Backwards Beats PodcastThe Rolling Stones - Some Girls (#468)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl explore Some Girls by The Rolling Stones, a landmark 1978 release that revitalized the band during the disco and punk era. The discussion covers how the Stones adapted to the changing musical landscape, the unique blend of styles on the album, and why Some Girls remains one of their best-selling and most beloved works. From Jagger’s embrace of disco on “Miss You” to the raw rock energy of “Respectable” and the soulful vulnerability of “Beast of Burden,” the hosts dig into the stories and sounds that defined this late-career classic.
Key Points
...
2025-09-301h 23Backwards Beats PodcastManu Chao - Clandestino (#469)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl welcome special guest Nate Danciger for a deep dive into Manu Chao’s groundbreaking 1998 album Clandestino, ranked on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. With Nate’s Spanish-language expertise and historical insight, the trio explore the album’s multilingual lyrics, global street sound, and political urgency. From immigration and activism to reggae grooves and playful samples, Clandestino is both a personal journey and a universal statement. Though it started quietly, the record went on to sell over 5 million copies and remains a touchstone for global music lovers.
Key P...
2025-09-232h 05Backwards Beats PodcastJuvenile - 400 Degreez (#470)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl head to New Orleans to break down Juvenile’s game-changing 1998 album 400 Degreez. From the bounce-driven streets of the Magnolia Projects to Cash Money’s breakthrough into the national spotlight, this record reshaped the sound of hip-hop at the turn of the millennium. The duo unpacks Juvenile’s rise, the production genius of Mannie Fresh, and the cultural weight of singles like “Ha” and “Back That Azz Up.”
Key Points
Juvenile’s early career and how he connected with Cash Money Records.
The unique cadence and impact of “Ha” — and how Jay-Z jumped on th...
2025-09-162h 04Backwards Beats PodcastSurrealistic Pillow - Jefferson Airplane (#471)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Surrealistic Pillow (1967) by Jefferson Airplane, ranked #471 on Rolling Stone’s Greatest Albums list. They explore how the album defined the San Francisco sound, the role of Grace Slick in reshaping the band’s identity, and Jerry Garcia’s surprising influence as “musical and spiritual advisor.” The conversation blends deep analysis, fun tangents, and reflections on the counterculture movement that shaped the record.
Key Points
Surrealistic Pillow marked Jefferson Airplane’s breakthrough and cemented them in the Summer of Love era.
Grace Slick brought two of the band’s biggest hits...
2025-09-091h 52Backwards Beats PodcastCtrl - Sza (#472)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into CTRL by SZA, ranked #472 on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. They explore SZA’s groundbreaking debut, her unique blend of R&B, hip hop, and neo-soul, and the bold themes of vulnerability, sexuality, and self-discovery that run through the record. Along the way, they discuss standout tracks, production details, and cultural impact, with plenty of humor, side tangents, and even a campaign to “buy Sesame Street.”
Music Referenced
Travis Scott
Kendrick Lamar
Rihanna
Beyonce
Nicki Minaj
Anderson Paak
Billie Eilish
Questlove
Pharrell
Frank Oce...
2025-09-021h 58Backwards Beats PodcastBarrio Fino - Daddy Yankee (#473)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Daddy Yankee’s landmark 2004 album Barrio Fino. Widely credited with bringing reggaetón into the global spotlight, the record features the smash hit Gasolina and helped shape the sound of Latin music for years to come. Dan reflects on the challenges of listening to the full 21-track project as a non-Spanish speaker, the dominance of the soca rhythm throughout, and how the album’s rapid-fire delivery can feel overwhelming. The hosts also contextualize the album within the early 2000s music scene and its lasting cultural impact.
Key Point...
2025-08-261h 45Backwards Beats Podcast#1 Record - Big Star (#474)In this episode of the Backwards Beats Podcast, Dan and Carl dig into Big Star’s #1 Record—an album that didn’t live up to its title in sales but grew into one of the most influential records in rock history. Released in 1972 and largely overlooked at the time, #1 Record went on to inspire generations of power pop, indie, and alternative bands. The guys explore how Alex Chilton, Chris Bell, Andy Hummel, and Jody Stephens fused British Invasion pop with Southern rock charm and pristine studio production at Ardent Records. Along the way, they highlight Big Star’s incredible harmonie...
2025-08-191h 50Backwards Beats PodcastSheryl Crow - Sheryl Crow (#475)In Episode 32 of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into the self-titled 1996 album Sheryl Crow, ranked #475 on Rolling Stone Magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. This sophomore record marked a decisive turn for Crow as a producer, songwriter, and artist determined to define herself beyond the massive success of Tuesday Night Music Club. The duo explores the album’s gritty production, thematic depth, and impressive musical range—highlighting Crow’s defiant vocals, smart arrangements, and her evolution as a bandleader.
From radio staples like "If It Makes You Happy" and "Everyday Is a Winding Road" to overlooked gems l...
2025-08-121h 45Backwards Beats PodcastKimono My House - Sparks (#476)This week on Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Sparks’ 1974 glam-rock carnival ride, Kimono My House — ranked #476 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. This album introduced many to the chaotic genius of Ron and Russell Mael, the brothers behind Sparks, and inspired artists from Björk to Beck. With theatrical falsetto vocals, hyperactive arrangements, and lyrics that blend wit and weirdness, Sparks bring both musical chops and flamboyant absurdity. But does that make for an album worth revisiting? Carl and Dan try to make sense of the madness.
Key Points
Musical Style:
Operatic falsetto vocals...
2025-08-051h 15Backwards Beats PodcastMoanin' in the Moonlight - Howlin' Wolf (#477)This week, Dan and Carl dig into the dark, gritty, and groundbreaking Moanin’ in the Moonlight by Howlin’ Wolf — ranked #477 on Rolling Stone Magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. With a growl like gravel and a presence like thunder, Howlin’ Wolf’s debut album isn't just blues — it's the blueprint for rock ‘n’ roll.
Originally released in 1958 as a compilation of previously recorded singles, this 12-track, 30-minute album is a masterclass in raw expression. The guys explore everything from the origins of the electric blues to bizarre recording choices, and even a few unexpected grooves that feel downright Dilla...
2025-07-291h 23Backwards Beats PodcastThe Kinks - Something Else (#478)In this episode, Dan and Carl dive into Something Else by The Kinks, #478 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. Released in 1967 (UK) and early 1968 (US), this album shows The Kinks moving from garage rock into baroque pop, British folk, and psychedelic sounds, with Ray Davies taking complete creative control. The hosts explore sibling tension, touring bans, Beatles comparisons, wild harmonic shifts, and why Spotify’s album cataloging drives them nuts.
Key Points
🎙️ Album Context: Released during The Kinks’ U.S. touring ban, Something Else reflects a more introspective, studio-based approach. Ray Davies wrote nearly the...
2025-07-221h 30Backwards Beats PodcastThe Kinks - Something Else (#478)In this episode, Dan and Carl dive into Something Else by The Kinks, #478 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. Released in 1967 (UK) and early 1968 (US), this album shows The Kinks moving from garage rock into baroque pop, British folk, and psychedelic sounds, with Ray Davies taking complete creative control. The hosts explore sibling tension, touring bans, Beatles comparisons, wild harmonic shifts, and why Spotify’s album cataloging drives them nuts.
Key Points
🎙️ Album Context: Released during The Kinks’ U.S. touring ban, Something Else reflects a more introspective, studio-based approach. Ray Davies wrote nearly the...
2025-07-221h 30Backwards Beats PodcastAmor Prohibido - Selena (#479)This week, Dan and Carl dive into Amor Prohibido, Selena's 1994 breakthrough and a landmark in Tejano and Latin pop. Positioned at #479 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, the album blends cumbia, pop, and Tejano styles with digital instrumentation and deeply emotional themes—though often delivered through upbeat, danceable grooves.
The hosts explore Selena’s unique vocal control, her genre-defining influence, and the tragic story of her life cut short. They wrestle with the album's heavy use of MIDI production, ultimately acknowledging both its cultural context and experimental ambition. Plus, fake sponsors make their return...
2025-07-151h 11Backwards Beats PodcastThe Weight Of These Wings - Miranda Lambert (#480)In episode 1, season 2 of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive deep into Miranda Lambert’s emotionally charged double album The Weight of These Wings (2016). Released in the wake of her public divorce from Blake Shelton, this sprawling 24-track project is divided into two thematic discs: The Nerve and The Heart. The hosts explore the album’s sonic risks, lyrical introspection, and Lambert’s evolving artistic voice, praising her fearless honesty while critiquing the occasionally muddy production.
🎧 We also just launched our Patreon — it’s totally free right now, and we’ll be using it as a home for behin...
2025-07-081h 45Backwards Beats PodcastThe Sounds of Iceland or Dan's Icelandic SoundscapeIn this final episode of our Sidetrax bonus series, Dan takes us deep into the land of fire, ice, and... Beyoncé?
Dan’s Icelandic Soundscape is part travelogue, part personal audio diary, and part homemade soundtrack — recorded across 13 days of hiking, kayaking, glacier climbing, and river crossings in one of the most surreal places on Earth.
From snorkeling in the Silfra fissure to nearly summiting Rjúpnafell in Þórsmörk, this episode captures the emotional arc of the trip — scored with original music, covers, and reinterpretations of songs by Icelandic artists like Sigur Rós, Björk, and J...
2025-07-0132 minBackwards Beats PodcastBoyz II Men - Thank You - Carl's CoversIn the first ever "Carl's Covers" segment, Carl rolls a 20 sided die to find out which album of season one he'll be choosing a song to attempt to cover in one night while Dan stares at waterfalls halfway across the world. Tune in for pure chaos and a surprise cover song!
2025-06-2421 minBackwards Beats PodcastConvince Me! Journey Inwards by LTJ Bukem
In this "Convince Me" sidetrax episode, Carl challenges Dan with Journey Inwards, the immersive double album from UK drum & bass pioneer LTJ Bukem. Known for his lush atmospheres, jazz-inflected harmonies, and meticulous production, Bukem's 2000 release is both a vibe and a craft lesson.
Dan—unfamiliar with the genre—dives into the world of liquid drum & bass, navigating breakbeats, live instrumentation, sampling, and surprising emotional depth. What begins as a daunting 88-minute listen becomes an exploration of sonic therapy, underground electronica, and personal nostalgia. It's ambient, it’s jazzy, it’s jungle—and it sparks an unexpectedl...
2025-06-1743 minBackwards Beats PodcastConvince Me! Billion Dollar Babies by Alice CooperA Convince Me Sidetrax Episode
This week on Backwards Beats, we're on a mid-season break – but not really. Dan kicks off our first ever Convince Me Sidetrax episode by assigning Carl an album he’s never heard and would likely never seek out on his own: Alice Cooper’s 1973 shock rock epic Billion Dollar Babies. Known for theatrical excess, guillotines, and glam-goth energy, this album challenges Carl’s deep-rooted skepticism of makeup-wearing rockers. What unfolds is a surprising deep dive into a shockingly competent – and conceptually ambitious – hard rock record.
From dental drills to ragtime pianos, from outrageous l...
2025-06-1034 minBackwards Beats PodcastFine Line - Harry Styles BONUSIn this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Harry Styles’ 2022 album Harry’s House. But not before they confess to accidentally reviewing the wrong Harry Styles album first — because why make it easy? Along the way, they unpack Harry’s House track by track, dive into Harry’s evolution from One Direction heartthrob to solo superstar, and discover just how many legends quietly contributed to this pop powerhouse.
Key Points
The Great Mix-Up: Dan and Carl originally reviewed Fine Line by mistake — that episode’s coming later as bonus content.
About the Album: Released in 2022, Harry’s House blends s...
2025-06-031h 33Backwards Beats PodcastBest Breakup Songs Ever! BONUSIn this special BONUS Sidetrax episode, Dan and Carl explore the ultimate breakup anthems from each decade—spanning the 1970s through the 2020s. Inspired by their not-so-loving take on Here, My Dear by Marvin Gaye, the duo softens their edge to reveal their emotional (and still hilarious) sides. With personal rules, heartfelt justifications, and a few sharp jabs, they each select one breakup song per decade that defines heartbreak, healing, or hell-yeah-I’m-free energy. No honorable mentions—just the definitive list, as decided by the Backwards Beats team.
Key Points
Sidetrax Defined: Bonus episodes where Dan and Carl chase...
2025-05-2737 minBackwards Beats PodcastIf You're Feeling Sinister by Belle and Sebastian (#481)In this milestone 20th episode—and the wrap-up to Season 1—Dan and Carl dive into If You're Feeling Sinister by Belle and Sebastian, the Scottish indie-pop group that emerged in the mid-90s with delicate arrangements, soft-spoken vocals, and sharp lyrical themes. With no prior exposure to the band, both hosts approach this album with fresh ears and an open mind.
As always, this episode blends honest reactions, deep musical insight, and hilarious tangents—including one about mispronouncing “Stuart” and a shout-out to international listeners (Hallo, Germany!). Whether you're new to Belle and Sebastian or already a fan, this...
2025-05-201h 16Backwards Beats PodcastBizarre Ride II The Pharcyde by The Pharcyde (#482)Dan and Carl ride the rollercoaster that is Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde, the kaleidoscopic debut from L.A.’s most eccentric hip-hop quartet. Between hilarious skits, jazz-laced beats, and outlandish rhymes, the duo dives into a '90s rap record that defied the gangsta template of its era. Along the way, they unpack the group's roots in dance, Jay Swift’s genius production, and why this album still slaps decades later.
Key Points
Released in 1992, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde features 16 tracks and runs just under an hour, including several skits that blur the line between comedy and...
2025-05-131h 29Backwards Beats PodcastThe Muddy Waters Anthology by Muddy Waters (#483)In Episode 18 of Backwards Beats, Dan, Carl, and the podcast's first-ever guest, Lee McAdams from @squatchsounds, dive deep into the iconic blues legacy of Muddy Waters through the expansive 50-track compilation The Anthology (1947–1972). With decades of music to explore, they abandon the usual track-by-track format for a broader, decade-spanning approach, picking personal favorites and discussing Muddy’s profound influence on rock, blues, and guitar-driven music. Along the way, they blend heartfelt appreciation with irreverent humor, touching on everything from harmonica roots to slide guitar legends.
Music Referenced
I Just Wanna Make Love To You by Foghat
Rolling Stones
Mudd...
2025-05-061h 50Backwards Beats PodcastBorn This Way by Lady Gaga (#484)In this high-energy episode of Backwards Beats Podcast, Dan and Carl dive into Lady Gaga’s bold and eclectic 2011 album, Born This Way (Rolling Stone’s #484). Recorded during a sleepy spring evening, the hosts bring humor, insight, and deep musical analysis to Gaga’s electronic, dance-driven celebration of identity, empowerment, and defiance. They explore Gaga's musical fandom, theatrical flair, and fearlessness in confronting social issues, all while unpacking the album’s rich production and music theory layers — and of course, throwing in a few fake ads and laughs along the way.
Key Points
Context & Impact: Born This Way is roo...
2025-04-291h 35Backwards Beats PodcastI Want To See The Bright Lights Tonight - Richard & Linda Thompson (#485)In this episode, Dan and Carl dive deep into I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight, the 1974 debut collaborative album by British folk-rock icons Richard and Linda Thompson. The duo explores the album's rich musical textures, varied instrumentation, and emotional range, offering technical insight and personal reactions. From Celtic-tinged folk ballads to moody rock moments, the album’s instrumentation (featuring mandolins, tin whistles, crumhorns, and concertinas) celebrates diverse timbres and musical ambition.
Carl shares the surprising story behind his family’s connection to vinyl needle manufacturing, while Dan breaks down modal scales like Mixolydian and Phrygian with...
2025-04-221h 27Backwards Beats PodcastContinuum - John Mayer (#486)Overview
In Episode 15, Dan and Carl finally hit a record they both adore—John Mayer’s Continuum, ranked #486 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. The fanboying is real, but so is the deep analysis. This episode covers Mayer’s transition from pop darling to a serious blues craftsman, from subtle production choices to guitar tone breakdowns and harmony dives. With legendary players like Steve Jordan and Pino Palladino, Continuum serves up soulful grooves, emotional depth, and masterful songwriting.
Key Points
Personal Bias Admitted: Dan and Carl are massive fans of Continuum—this is one of their “...
2025-04-151h 45Backwards Beats PodcastDamaged by Black Flag (#487)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Black Flag's ferocious 1981 debut, Damaged — an album that defines hardcore punk with raw energy, cathartic aggression, and DIY ethos. Coming in at #487 on Rolling Stone's list, Damaged is an iconic record that helped shape the sound and spirit of American punk. The guys also kick things off by recapping their weekend trip to the GroundUP Music Festival in Miami and all the incredible artists they encountered.
Key Points
🎶 Punk Iconography: Damaged is discussed as a landmark hardcore punk record with a gritty visual and sonic aesthetic — from its cover a...
2025-04-081h 38Backwards Beats PodcastThe Stooges by the Stooges (#488)This week, Dan and Carl dive into the raw and rebellious energy of The Stooges’ self-titled 1969 debut. A proto-punk classic that laid the foundation for punk and garage rock, this album is as chaotic as it is influential. From Iggy Pop’s unhinged vocals to Ron Asheton’s sludgy guitar riffs, we break down why this record was both ahead of its time and completely out of control.
Key Points
Background & Context – The late 60s rock scene, the rise of punk influences, and how The Stooges fit into the era.
Album Breakdown – Track-by-track discussion, including the hypnotic repetition of We Will...
2025-04-011h 14Backwards Beats PodcastBack to Mono by Phil Spector (#489)In this episode, Dan and Carl dive into Back to Mono (1958-1969), a massive 73-song compilation produced by Phil Spector. The duo discusses the challenges of covering such an extensive box set, the impact of the "Wall of Sound" production style, and how Spector’s legacy complicates the album’s place on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums of All Time. Instead of focusing on Spector, they highlight the incredible artists featured on this compilation, including The Ronettes, The Righteous Brothers, and Darlene Love.
Key Points
The Wall of Sound – How Phil Spector’s signature production style shaped 1960s pop music...
2025-03-251h 24Backwards Beats PodcastHeart Like A Wheel by Linda Ronstadt (#490)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl take a deep dive into Heart Like a Wheel, Linda Ronstadt’s 1974 breakthrough album. They explore Ronstadt’s immense vocal talent, her impact on the Southern California music scene, and her impressive ability to cross musical genres. With a mix of country, rock, and pop influences, Heart Like a Wheel cemented Ronstadt’s place as a powerhouse in the music industry. Dan and Carl also discuss the album’s historical significance, standout tracks, and how it stacks up against other classic records.
Key Points
Linda Ronstadt’s Background: Born in 1946 in...
2025-03-181h 08Backwards Beats PodcastHarry's House by Harry Styles (#491)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl tackle Harry Styles’ 2022 album Harry’s House. But not before they confess to accidentally reviewing the wrong Harry Styles album first — because why make it easy? Along the way, they unpack Harry’s House track by track, dive into Harry’s evolution from One Direction heartthrob to solo superstar, and discover just how many legends quietly contributed to this pop powerhouse.
Key Points
The Great Mix-Up: Dan and Carl originally reviewed Fine Line by mistake — that episode’s coming later as bonus content.
About the Album: Released in 2022, Harry’s House blends s...
2025-03-111h 26Backwards Beats PodcastNick of Time by Bonnie Raitt (#492)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into Bonnie Raitt’s Nick of Time, a landmark album that was her breakthrough after years in the industry. They explore the album’s unique blend of blues, country, folk, and soft rock, discuss the impact of its production, and highlight some of its most compelling musical moments. Along the way, they touch on Bonnie Raitt’s career resilience, her Scottish ancestry (including a chilling ghost story), and her influence on modern Americana.
Key Points
Bonnie Raitt’s Career Arc – How *Nick of Time marked her mainstream breakthrough after a decade...
2025-03-041h 19Backwards Beats PodcastHere, My Dear by Marvin Gaye (#493)In this episode, Dan and Carl take on Here, My Dear, Marvin Gaye’s 1978 album that Rolling Stone ranks at #492 on its 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list. This record, infamous for being written as part of Gaye’s divorce settlement, is one of the most personal and emotionally raw works in music history. But does that make it good? The guys grapple with their conflicted feelings, breaking down the album’s unique concept, unfiltered lyrics, and unconventional production.
Key Points
Marvin Gaye’s Legacy – A look at Gaye’s legendary career and why this album stands apart from his gre...
2025-02-251h 26Backwards Beats PodcastPresenting the Ronettes (#494)In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl take a deep dive into Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes Featuring Veronica, the only album released by the legendary girl group The Ronettes. From Phil Spector’s infamous Wall of Sound to the tragic personal struggles of Ronnie Spector, the duo explores the album’s history, production, and cultural impact. Along the way, they discuss its influence on artists like Bruce Springsteen, Amy Winehouse, and Brian Wilson, and share their candid opinions on whether this album is a true classic or a relic of its time.
Key Points
The Rone...
2025-02-181h 22Backwards Beats PodcastII by Boyz II Men (#495)
Welcome to Episode 6 of the Backwards Beats Podcast! This week, Dan and Carl dive into II by Boyz II Men, an R&B masterpiece from the 90s. They explore the album's highlights, discuss its nostalgic impact, and debate whether it holds up today. From middle school dance memories to deep dives into harmonies and production quirks, this episode is a must-listen for fans of vocal perfection and 90s vibes.
Key Points
Album Background:
II is Boyz II Men’s sophomore album, released in 1994, featuring hits like "I’ll Make Love to You" and "...
2025-02-111h 13Backwards Beats PodcastShakira - Dónde Están Los Ladrones (#496)Dan and Carl explore Shakira's groundbreaking 1998 album "Dónde Están los Ladrones?" in this episode. This record, often overshadowed by her later global hits, showcases a raw, authentic side of Shakira that marries Latin American roots with rock influences and poignant storytelling. Join us as we unpack the artistry behind an album that solidified her as a global icon and continues to resonate decades later.
📀 Album Highlights
Breakthrough Roots: While not Shakira’s commercial debut, this album represents a pivotal moment in her career. It propelled her from Latin America’s rising star to a globally recognized artist, b...
2025-02-041h 35Backwards Beats PodcastThe Indestructible Beat of Soweto Vol. 1 (#497)
In this episode of Backwards Beats, Dan and Carl dive into album #497 from Rolling Stone's Top 500 Albums of All Time: The Indestructible Beat of Soweto. This South African compilation album, released in 1985, introduced many Western listeners to the vibrant music of South Africa, featuring influential artists like Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
The hosts explore the cultural and historical context of the album, its unique musical styles such as mbaqanga and isicathamiya, and its undeniable connection to Paul Simon's Graceland. With humor, insight, and plenty of respect for the artistry, they grapple with the challenge of critiquing...
2025-01-281h 25Backwards Beats PodcastSuicide by Suicide (#498)Backwards Beats Podcast: Episode 3 - Suicide by Suicide
Artist Connections
The track "Frankie Teardrop" directly inspired Bruce Springsteen's "State Trooper", showcasing its reach into unexpected musical territories. - R.E.M. covered "Ghost Rider (YouTube)," though it remains an obscure part of their repertoire.
Final Thoughts:
Would You Hit It?: Dan gives a resounding NO, while Carl adds that recommending this album might end friendships.
Quality Time Segment: Dan compares this album to baking soda—a raw ingredient necessary for better music to follow, but tough to consume on its own.
Music Referenced
Closer by Nine Inc...
2025-01-211h 10Backwards Beats PodcastAsk Rufas - Rufas and Chaka Khan (#499)Backwards Beats - Episode 2: Ask Rufus by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan
Episode Summary
In this episode, Dan and Carl dive into Ask Rufus, the 499th album on Rolling Stone's Top 500 Albums of All Time. This marks a significant departure for Rufus from their funk roots, as the album embraces orchestral arrangements and jazz influences, showcasing Chaka Khan's extraordinary vocal range and the band's musical prowess. They break down the tracks, explore the musical transitions, and debate whether this album deserves its spot.
Key Points Discussed
Album Overview: Rufus' transition from funk to a more jazz and R&B...
2025-01-141h 08Backwards Beats PodcastFuneral by Arcade Fire (#500)Funeral by Arcade Fire (Album #500)
Hosts: Carl Pfanstiehl and Dan Woodard
Recorded at: Thought Shack Studio
Release Date: January 7, 2025
Episode Summary
Welcome to the debut episode of Backwards Beats! Carl and Dan dive into the 500th album on Rolling Stone's 2023 list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time: Funeral by Arcade Fire. This debut album from the Canadian indie rock band, released in 2004, brings themes of loss, nostalgia, and celebration. Dan and Carl discuss the album's dynamic energy, orchestration, and Arcade Fire's willingness to explore a wide range of instruments and influences. They share their initial skepticism...
2025-01-071h 06Backwards Beats PodcastEpisode 0: Introduction to Backwards Beats PodcastIn this introduction, meet you hosts Carl and Dan where they introduce themselves and you to Backwards Beats Podcast. We're a weekly show where we cover an album off of Rolling Stone Magazine's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list... from back to front.
2024-12-0401 min