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Wayne Rowan

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What the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1998 - August: Kid Rock “Devil Without a Cause”Wayne riffs on the fourth studio album by Kid Rock, "Devil Without a Cause,” from August 1998 (Bawitdaba / I Am the Bullgod / Somebody's Gotta Feel This / Cowboy). STAFF PICKS: “Closing Time” by Semisonic — Bruce. “Blue on Black” by Kenny Wayne Shepherd — Rob. "Inside Out” by Eve 6 — Lynch. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “It's Not Over” by Mark Isham  (from the motion picture "Blade"). 
2025-11-1734 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1998 - August: Kid Rock “Devil Without a Cause”Wayne riffs on the fourth studio album by Kid Rock, "Devil Without a Cause,” from August 1998 (Bawitdaba / I Am the Bullgod / Somebody's Gotta Feel This / Cowboy). STAFF PICKS: “Closing Time” by Semisonic — Bruce. “Blue on Black” by Kenny Wayne Shepherd — Rob. "Inside Out” by Eve 6 — Lynch. ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: “It's Not Over” by Mark Isham  (from the motion picture "Blade"). 
2025-11-1734 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenWhat the Riff?!? Close-Out Episode for 1965-1995What the Riff!?! has finished covering every month from January 1965 to December 1994, and we are thrilled that you have listened with us as we review the great bands, songs, and happenings of this 30-year time span.  In this episode, we bring back Brian Dickhute, one of our co-founders of the podcast, and review what we have learned, experienced, and enjoyed about this period of songs and podcast.  We also feature a number of songs that were either missed in our coverage of the times, or that were important to us individually.Eruption by Van HalenWayne br...
2025-07-2845 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - July: Beach Boys “Endless Summer”By the mid-70's the Beach Boys appeared to be a band that had been left behind.  Sales had been only moderate for their previous albums, and the band was struggling to determine their direction musically.  In the summer of 1973 the movie "American Graffiti" featured several Beach Boys songs, creating nostalgia for the earlier surfing music. Between the revived interest sparked by "American Graffiti" and the success of the Beatles "Red" and "Blue" compilation albums, the Beach Boys released a collection of hits from their early 60's catalogue called Endless Summer.  This featured songs from their Capitol Rec...
2025-03-1730 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - July: Beach Boys “Endless Summer”By the mid-70's the Beach Boys appeared to be a band that had been left behind.  Sales had been only moderate for their previous albums, and the band was struggling to determine their direction musically.  In the summer of 1973 the movie "American Graffiti" featured several Beach Boys songs, creating nostalgia for the earlier surfing music. Between the revived interest sparked by "American Graffiti" and the success of the Beatles "Red" and "Blue" compilation albums, the Beach Boys released a collection of hits from their early 60's catalogue called Endless Summer.  This featured songs from their Capitol Rec...
2025-03-1730 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1992 - February: Ozzy Osbourne ”No More Tears”No More Tears, the sixth solo studio album by Ozzy Osbourne, was released at an interesting time in rock music.  Hair metal acts were in decline, and grunge was about to take off.  Nevertheless, Ozzy hit it big with this album, reaching number 7 on the Billboard 200 charts, and providing Osbourne's only solo top 40 hit.  No More Tears is generally considered his best album since his first two solo albums, "Blizzard of Oz," and "Diary of a Madman," both of which featured the late Randy Rhodes on guitar.   The songs on the album are largely written by Ozzy, drum...
2024-10-2148 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1992 - February: Ozzy Osbourne ”No More Tears”No More Tears, the sixth solo studio album by Ozzy Osbourne, was released at an interesting time in rock music.  Hair metal acts were in decline, and grunge was about to take off.  Nevertheless, Ozzy hit it big with this album, reaching number 7 on the Billboard 200 charts, and providing Osbourne's only solo top 40 hit.  No More Tears is generally considered his best album since his first two solo albums, "Blizzard of Oz," and "Diary of a Madman," both of which featured the late Randy Rhodes on guitar.   The songs on the album are largely written by Ozzy, drum...
2024-10-2148 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1990 - October: Various Artists, Soundtrack for “Goodfellas”This week we are taking an opportunity to explore some songs which would normally be outside our time frame by following the soundtrack to the movie “Goodfellas.”  This Martin Scorsese film is a mafia story told from the view of Henry Hill in his book “Wiseguy:  Life In a Mafia Family.” The movie follows Henry Hill as he looks back on his life beginning during a time when he looked up to the Wise Guys and gangsters who ran his neighborhood.  Hill starts his narrative as a child in 1955 and continues until 1980 when Hill becomes an FBI informant o...
2024-09-0938 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1990 - October: Various Artists, Soundtrack for “Goodfellas”This week we are taking an opportunity to explore some songs which would normally be outside our time frame by following the soundtrack to the movie “Goodfellas.”  This Martin Scorsese film is a mafia story told from the view of Henry Hill in his book “Wiseguy:  Life In a Mafia Family.” The movie follows Henry Hill as he looks back on his life beginning during a time when he looked up to the Wise Guys and gangsters who ran his neighborhood.  Hill starts his narrative as a child in 1955 and continues until 1980 when Hill becomes an FBI informant o...
2024-09-0938 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - March: George Thorogood and the Destroyers ”The George Thorogood Collection”Wilmington, Delaware's George Thorogood got his start on acoustic blues.  He formed a band called the Delaware Destroyers in 1973, and this would eventually become his band, known as George Thorogood & The Destroyers.  He released his first record in 1977, and received more mainstream notice when he opened for the Rolling Stones in 1981.  The same year his touring schedule included the “50/50 tour” where George Thorogood & the Destroyers toured all 50 states in 50 days.  Thorogood's high energy shows and relentless touring schedule would be a hallmark of the band, creating a dedicated audience worldwide. The 1980's saw a resurgence in interest in blues...
2024-05-2041 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - March: George Thorogood and the Destroyers ”The George Thorogood Collection”Wilmington, Delaware's George Thorogood got his start on acoustic blues.  He formed a band called the Delaware Destroyers in 1973, and this would eventually become his band, known as George Thorogood & The Destroyers.  He released his first record in 1977, and received more mainstream notice when he opened for the Rolling Stones in 1981.  The same year his touring schedule included the “50/50 tour” where George Thorogood & the Destroyers toured all 50 states in 50 days.  Thorogood's high energy shows and relentless touring schedule would be a hallmark of the band, creating a dedicated audience worldwide. The 1980's saw a resurgence in interest in blues...
2024-05-2041 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1975 - July: Outlaws “The Outlaws”The Outlaws had a long history as a band prior to the release of this debut album.  Formed originally in 1967 in Tampa, Florida, the original name for the group was "The Four Letter Words."  They toured off and on through the early 70's, and made an aborted attempt at an album the late 60's.  Finally, they were signed by Clive Davis and Arista Records while opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd.  Ronnie Van Zant told Davis and future Outlaws manager Charlie Brusco, "If you don't sign Outlaws, you're the dumbest music person I've ever met - and I know you're not."
2024-04-2239 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1975 - July: Outlaws “The Outlaws”The Outlaws had a long history as a band prior to the release of this debut album.  Formed originally in 1967 in Tampa, Florida, the original name for the group was "The Four Letter Words."  They toured off and on through the early 70's, and made an aborted attempt at an album the late 60's.  Finally, they were signed by Clive Davis and Arista Records while opening for Lynyrd Skynyrd.  Ronnie Van Zant told Davis and future Outlaws manager Charlie Brusco, "If you don't sign Outlaws, you're the dumbest music person I've ever met - and I know you're not."
2024-04-2239 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - October: Johnny Cash “Original Golden Hits, Volume I and II”Johnny Cash was a prolific hitmaker in the mid 50's to early 60's.  In the late 60's  he released a couple of live albums which had crossover appeal:  "Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison," and "Johnny Cash at San Quentin."  By 1969, Johnny Cash had become an international musical success, selling more records than the Beatles at the time. Cash had left his original label, Sun Records, back in 1958.  However, he had left an extensive catalogue of songs with Sam Phillips at Sun.  Given his success and the upcoming Johnny Cash TV show, Sun Records decided it would be a good...
2024-03-1827 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - October: Johnny Cash “Original Golden Hits, Volume I and II”Johnny Cash was a prolific hitmaker in the mid 50's to early 60's.  In the late 60's  he released a couple of live albums which had crossover appeal:  "Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison," and "Johnny Cash at San Quentin."  By 1969, Johnny Cash had become an international musical success, selling more records than the Beatles at the time. Cash had left his original label, Sun Records, back in 1958.  However, he had left an extensive catalogue of songs with Sam Phillips at Sun.  Given his success and the upcoming Johnny Cash TV show, Sun Records decided it would be a good...
2024-03-1827 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - July: Crabby Appleton “Crabby Appleton”We may have an obscure album for your listening pleasure today.  Crabby Appleton was a short-lived band that was formed by the combination of musicians from an acid blues band called Stonehenge and singer-songwriter frontman Michael Fennelly.  The band is out of the Laurel Canyon counterculture, which produced many groups like The Mamas & the Papas, Jim Morrison, Carole King, and Jackson Browne.  The group gets its name from a character on the late 50's cartoon series Tom Terrific, which was a part of the children's television show "Captain Kangaroo."  Their debut album was eponymously named Crabby Appleton. In a...
2024-01-0834 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - July: Crabby Appleton “Crabby Appleton”We may have an obscure album for your listening pleasure today.  Crabby Appleton was a short-lived band that was formed by the combination of musicians from an acid blues band called Stonehenge and singer-songwriter frontman Michael Fennelly.  The band is out of the Laurel Canyon counterculture, which produced many groups like The Mamas & the Papas, Jim Morrison, Carole King, and Jackson Browne.  The group gets its name from a character on the late 50's cartoon series Tom Terrific, which was a part of the children's television show "Captain Kangaroo."  Their debut album was eponymously named Crabby Appleton. In a...
2024-01-0834 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - December: Ian Moore “Ian Moore”Ian Moore may have been born in Berkeley, California, but the sound from his eponymously named debut studio album reflects Austin, Texas, the place he called home.  Moore began playing violin at a young age, but switched to guitar as a teen under the influence of artists like Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan.  Moore's influence runs well beyond the blues genre, however, from Curtis Mayfield to Stevie Wonder, and from Sly & the Family Stone to the Rolling Stones.   Moore's debut album is based in the blues and roots rock.  Comparisons to Stevie Ray Vaughan, another Austin guit...
2024-01-0144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - December: Ian Moore “Ian Moore”Ian Moore may have been born in Berkeley, California, but the sound from his eponymously named debut studio album reflects Austin, Texas, the place he called home.  Moore began playing violin at a young age, but switched to guitar as a teen under the influence of artists like Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan.  Moore's influence runs well beyond the blues genre, however, from Curtis Mayfield to Stevie Wonder, and from Sly & the Family Stone to the Rolling Stones.   Moore's debut album is based in the blues and roots rock.  Comparisons to Stevie Ray Vaughan, another Austin guit...
2024-01-0144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - November: Bad Religion ”No Control”While the late 80's were the high water mark for overproduced hair bands, there was an undercurrent flowing below the mainstream popularity which would surface in the 90's as the punk revival.  Los Angeles-based Bad Religion is a group which would not only benefit from that revival, but many consider the band to be a founder of the movement.  The band formed in 1980 and released a couple of albums before going on hiatus in 1983 and splitting up shortly thereafter.  After a slowly getting back together in 1986, they released their third album entitled "Suffer."  While on tour promoting that album, the...
2023-08-2832 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1989 - November: Bad Religion ”No Control”While the late 80's were the high water mark for overproduced hair bands, there was an undercurrent flowing below the mainstream popularity which would surface in the 90's as the punk revival.  Los Angeles-based Bad Religion is a group which would not only benefit from that revival, but many consider the band to be a founder of the movement.  The band formed in 1980 and released a couple of albums before going on hiatus in 1983 and splitting up shortly thereafter.  After a slowly getting back together in 1986, they released their third album entitled "Suffer."  While on tour promoting that album, the...
2023-08-2832 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - December: Montrose “Paper Money”Montrose was considered to be America's answer to Led Zeppelin in the early 70's.  Founder Ronnie Montrose had played with a number of musicians including Van Morrison, Boz Scaggs, and with Edgar Winter on the hit singles “Frankenstein” and “Free Ride.”  He formed the band bearing his name with bassist/keyboardist Alan Fitzgerald, drummer Denny Carmassi, and front man Sammy Hagar.  Paper Money is the group's second album, and was the band's highest-charting release, reaching number 65 on the Billboard 200 chart.   This follow-up to their self-titled debut album took on a broader style, with a stronger range of rhythm and d...
2023-05-2941 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1974 - December: Montrose “Paper Money”Montrose was considered to be America's answer to Led Zeppelin in the early 70's.  Founder Ronnie Montrose had played with a number of musicians including Van Morrison, Boz Scaggs, and with Edgar Winter on the hit singles “Frankenstein” and “Free Ride.”  He formed the band bearing his name with bassist/keyboardist Alan Fitzgerald, drummer Denny Carmassi, and front man Sammy Hagar.  Paper Money is the group's second album, and was the band's highest-charting release, reaching number 65 on the Billboard 200 chart.   This follow-up to their self-titled debut album took on a broader style, with a stronger range of rhythm and d...
2023-05-2941 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1965 - March: Ike & Tina Turner “Live! The Ike & Tina Turner Show”Although Ike & Tina Turner had been performing since 1960 and were well known for the energy of their performances, it wasn't until 1965 and the release of Live!  The Ike & Tina Turner Show that they received national recognition.  This album featured the best live performances of the previous year. Tina Turner was born Martha Nell Bullock (aka Anna Mae Bullock), and was given the name Tina Turner as a stage name when she toured as a feature with Ike Turner in 1960.  They were not married at the time, and Ike Turner had the name "Tina Turner" trademarked, so that he...
2023-05-0128 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1965 - March: Ike & Tina Turner “Live! The Ike & Tina Turner Show”Although Ike & Tina Turner had been performing since 1960 and were well known for the energy of their performances, it wasn't until 1965 and the release of Live!  The Ike & Tina Turner Show that they received national recognition.  This album featured the best live performances of the previous year. Tina Turner was born Martha Nell Bullock (aka Anna Mae Bullock), and was given the name Tina Turner as a stage name when she toured as a feature with Ike Turner in 1960.  They were not married at the time, and Ike Turner had the name "Tina Turner" trademarked, so that he...
2023-05-0128 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - November: the New York Dolls ”New York Dolls”Although neither popular nor long-lived as a band,  the New York Dolls were one of the most influential bands of the punk and glam rock genres.  Their debut album, the eponymously named New York Dolls came out on the strength of their lower Manhattan fan base and received critical acclaim.  However, their appeal outside of New York was limited and the album was considered a commercial failure in the United States. The New York Dolls (also known as “The Dolls”) sported an androgynous look onstage, dressing in satin, high heels, dresses, and lots of makeup.  Much of their wa...
2023-02-2738 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - November: the New York Dolls ”New York Dolls”Although neither popular nor long-lived as a band,  the New York Dolls were one of the most influential bands of the punk and glam rock genres.  Their debut album, the eponymously named New York Dolls came out on the strength of their lower Manhattan fan base and received critical acclaim.  However, their appeal outside of New York was limited and the album was considered a commercial failure in the United States. The New York Dolls (also known as “The Dolls”) sported an androgynous look onstage, dressing in satin, high heels, dresses, and lots of makeup.  Much of their wa...
2023-02-2738 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - September: Black Sabbath “Paranoid”Rolling Stone magazine ranked Paranoid, the second studio album by Black Sabbath, to be the number one of its "100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time."  Originally known by the name Earth, the band took the name Black Sabbath from a 1963 horror film starring Boris Karloff.  The band members were Bill Ward on percussion, Geezer Butler on bass, Tony Iommi on guitar, and Ozzy Osbourne on vocals.  It was originally a heavy blues band from Birmingham, England, but took on a darker complexion with lyrics of doom. Much of the music on Paranoid was developed during jams while the...
2023-01-2336 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - September: Black Sabbath “Paranoid”Rolling Stone magazine ranked Paranoid, the second studio album by Black Sabbath, to be the number one of its "100 Greatest Metal Albums of All Time."  Originally known by the name Earth, the band took the name Black Sabbath from a 1963 horror film starring Boris Karloff.  The band members were Bill Ward on percussion, Geezer Butler on bass, Tony Iommi on guitar, and Ozzy Osbourne on vocals.  It was originally a heavy blues band from Birmingham, England, but took on a darker complexion with lyrics of doom. Much of the music on Paranoid was developed during jams while the...
2023-01-2336 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - July: The Easy Rider Motion Picture SoundtrackThe cult classic film Easy Rider was released this month.  A landmark counter culture movie, the film traces the journey of Wyatt and Billy as they make their way on motorcycles from a successful drug deal in Los Angeles to the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans.  Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Terry Southern wrote the film, and it stars Fonda, Hopper, and Jack Nicholson.  Dennis Hopper directed the movie.   Originally the plan was for Crosby, Stills & Nash to do all the songs on the soundtrack.  When the editor plugged in contemporary songs as placeholders, the sound convi...
2023-01-0231 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - July: The Easy Rider Motion Picture SoundtrackThe cult classic film Easy Rider was released this month.  A landmark counter culture movie, the film traces the journey of Wyatt and Billy as they make their way on motorcycles from a successful drug deal in Los Angeles to the Mardi Gras festival in New Orleans.  Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, and Terry Southern wrote the film, and it stars Fonda, Hopper, and Jack Nicholson.  Dennis Hopper directed the movie.   Originally the plan was for Crosby, Stills & Nash to do all the songs on the soundtrack.  When the editor plugged in contemporary songs as placeholders, the sound convi...
2023-01-0231 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1972 - April: Deep Purple “Machine Head”Machine Head is the sixth and most commercially successful studio album Deep Purple ever produced.  The band was coming off a two-year tour, and wanted to capture a sound closer to their live shows on the next studio effort.  They booked the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio for the recording and booked time at the Montreux Casino.  However, just before their studio time was to begin, a fire was started during a concert for Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention, and the casino burned to the ground.  They then attempted to record at a nearby theater, but this had to b...
2022-10-1042 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1972 - April: Deep Purple “Machine Head”Machine Head is the sixth and most commercially successful studio album Deep Purple ever produced.  The band was coming off a two-year tour, and wanted to capture a sound closer to their live shows on the next studio effort.  They booked the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio for the recording and booked time at the Montreux Casino.  However, just before their studio time was to begin, a fire was started during a concert for Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention, and the casino burned to the ground.  They then attempted to record at a nearby theater, but this had to b...
2022-10-1042 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1968 - March: The Electric Flag “Long Time Comin’”The Electric Flag was the brainchild of guitarist Mike Bloomfield, and Long Time Comin' was their debut studio album.  The core of the band was formed by Mike Bloomfield on guitar, Barry Goldberg on keyboards, and Buddy Miles (soon to be with Jimmy Hendrix's Band of Gypsies) on drums.  Additionally, Nick Gravenites would sing lead on several tracks. With "Long Time Comin'" Bloomfield wanted to create a sound that would feature what he called "American music."  He would draw inspiration from many sources including traditional country, gospel, and R&B, and the result would be a fusion of...
2022-09-0532 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1968 - March: The Electric Flag “Long Time Comin’”The Electric Flag was the brainchild of guitarist Mike Bloomfield, and Long Time Comin' was their debut studio album.  The core of the band was formed by Mike Bloomfield on guitar, Barry Goldberg on keyboards, and Buddy Miles (soon to be with Jimmy Hendrix's Band of Gypsies) on drums.  Additionally, Nick Gravenites would sing lead on several tracks. With "Long Time Comin'" Bloomfield wanted to create a sound that would feature what he called "American music."  He would draw inspiration from many sources including traditional country, gospel, and R&B, and the result would be a fusion of...
2022-09-0532 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - December: The Georgia Satellites “Georgia Satellites”Atlanta, Georgia's own The Georgia Satellites released their debut and self-titled album in 1986.  Dan Baird was their primary songwriter and lead vocalist on most songs.  Guitarist Rick Richards, bassist Rick Price, and dummer Mauro Magellan complete the band.  Originally formed as Keith and the Satellites in 1980, the band saw a number of personnel changes and a name change to The Georgia Satellites soon thereafter.  They honed their craft playing at a Buckhead bar called Hedgens on Monday nights. The Georgia Satellites signed with Elektra Records in 1986 and released this debut album to significant commercial success.  The single "Keep...
2022-08-0836 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - December: The Georgia Satellites “Georgia Satellites”Atlanta, Georgia's own The Georgia Satellites released their debut and self-titled album in 1986.  Dan Baird was their primary songwriter and lead vocalist on most songs.  Guitarist Rick Richards, bassist Rick Price, and dummer Mauro Magellan complete the band.  Originally formed as Keith and the Satellites in 1980, the band saw a number of personnel changes and a name change to The Georgia Satellites soon thereafter.  They honed their craft playing at a Buckhead bar called Hedgens on Monday nights. The Georgia Satellites signed with Elektra Records in 1986 and released this debut album to significant commercial success.  The single "Keep...
2022-08-0836 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1991 - June: Van Halen “For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge”For their ninth studio album and Sammy Hagar's third album as lead singer, Hagar suggested Van Halen title it F*CK (... only the * was a letter).   Censorship in rock music was a controversial topic at the time, and Hagar wanted to push limits.  The name changed to For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge when Hagar was told by Ray "Boom Boom” Mancini that the vulgarity was actually an acronym for this phrase.   For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge was intended to be a return to the rock roots of Van Halen after a number of albums featuring more use of synthesizers and a...
2022-07-1146 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1991 - June: Van Halen “For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge”For their ninth studio album and Sammy Hagar's third album as lead singer, Hagar suggested Van Halen title it F*CK (... only the * was a letter).   Censorship in rock music was a controversial topic at the time, and Hagar wanted to push limits.  The name changed to For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge when Hagar was told by Ray "Boom Boom” Mancini that the vulgarity was actually an acronym for this phrase.   For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge was intended to be a return to the rock roots of Van Halen after a number of albums featuring more use of synthesizers and a...
2022-07-1146 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - May: Brother Cane “Brother Cane”At a time when most music was coming out of the Seattle grunge scene or the Athens, Georgia college environment, Alabama's own Brother Cane is a reminder that good rock music can originate anywhere.  The band was formed by front man and guitarist Damon Johnson and bassist Glenn Maxey, and they were joined by guitarist Roman Glick and drummer Scott Collier.  Their self-titled debut album would peak at number 14 on the Billboard Heatseekers Chart. Johnson wrote or co-wrote most of the songs on the album, but writing credits would be received by all band members for at le...
2022-06-1342 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - May: Brother Cane “Brother Cane”At a time when most music was coming out of the Seattle grunge scene or the Athens, Georgia college environment, Alabama's own Brother Cane is a reminder that good rock music can originate anywhere.  The band was formed by front man and guitarist Damon Johnson and bassist Glenn Maxey, and they were joined by guitarist Roman Glick and drummer Scott Collier.  Their self-titled debut album would peak at number 14 on the Billboard Heatseekers Chart. Johnson wrote or co-wrote most of the songs on the album, but writing credits would be received by all band members for at le...
2022-06-1342 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - April: James Gang ”Greatest Hits”The James Gang originated in Cleveland, Ohio, and is best known as a power trio consisting of Jim Fox on drums, Dale Peters on bass (Tom Kriss on bass for their first album) and Joe Walsh on guitars and lead vocals.  This Greatest Hits album captures work done on the first three James Gang albums where Joe Walsh is the principal songwriter and is front and center of the band. Walsh joined the group just prior to their signing with a record label.  They produced "Yer' Album" in 1969.  This would be followed by "James Gang Rides Again" and...
2022-06-0638 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - April: James Gang ”Greatest Hits”The James Gang originated in Cleveland, Ohio, and is best known as a power trio consisting of Jim Fox on drums, Dale Peters on bass (Tom Kriss on bass for their first album) and Joe Walsh on guitars and lead vocals.  This Greatest Hits album captures work done on the first three James Gang albums where Joe Walsh is the principal songwriter and is front and center of the band. Walsh joined the group just prior to their signing with a record label.  They produced "Yer' Album" in 1969.  This would be followed by "James Gang Rides Again" and...
2022-06-0638 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1968 - August: The Jeff Beck Group “Truth”Jeff Beck left the Yardbirds in 1966, and recorded several singles in 1967.  In 1968 Beck released his first solo studio album, Truth, which would come to be regarded as one of the first heavy metal albums released.  It would also feature a number of talented artists in his band called The Jeff Beck Group, including Rod Stewart on vocals, Ronnie Wood on bass, and Mickey Waller on drums, all of which would go on to achieve stardom as rock soloists and/or musicians in other groups. Beck started this group as a means to expand his guitar interests, and th...
2022-05-1630 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1968 - August: The Jeff Beck Group “Truth”Jeff Beck left the Yardbirds in 1966, and recorded several singles in 1967.  In 1968 Beck released his first solo studio album, Truth, which would come to be regarded as one of the first heavy metal albums released.  It would also feature a number of talented artists in his band called The Jeff Beck Group, including Rod Stewart on vocals, Ronnie Wood on bass, and Mickey Waller on drums, all of which would go on to achieve stardom as rock soloists and/or musicians in other groups. Beck started this group as a means to expand his guitar interests, and th...
2022-05-1630 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - October: Cracker “Kerosene Hat”The California band Cracker would have its greatest success with its second studio album, Kerosene Hat.  Cracker is David Lowery on lead vocals and guitar, Johnny Hickman on lead guitar and vocals, Davey Faragher on bass and vocals, and Michael Urbano on drums.  The name of the album comes from a time when Lowery and Hickman lived together in an old run-down house whose only heat source was a pair of kerosene heaters.  They had to walk to a nearby gas station to buy more kerosene and would bundle up with a wool cap that came to be known as...
2022-04-1841 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - October: Cracker “Kerosene Hat”The California band Cracker would have its greatest success with its second studio album, Kerosene Hat.  Cracker is David Lowery on lead vocals and guitar, Johnny Hickman on lead guitar and vocals, Davey Faragher on bass and vocals, and Michael Urbano on drums.  The name of the album comes from a time when Lowery and Hickman lived together in an old run-down house whose only heat source was a pair of kerosene heaters.  They had to walk to a nearby gas station to buy more kerosene and would bundle up with a wool cap that came to be known as...
2022-04-1841 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - September: Bon Jovi “Slippery When Wet”This is the album that turned heavy metal into pop, or started the hair metal genre of the 80's.  Slippery When Wet was the third studio album by Bon Jovi, and would be their best selling album to date. The band was David Bryan on keyboards, Tico Torres on percussion, Alec John Such on bass, Richie Sambora on guitar, and Jon Bon Jovi on lead vocals and rhythm guitar. Bon Jovi deliberately targeted a mainstream audience with this album.  They wrote 30 songs and auditioned them to teenagers in New York and New Jersey.  The album's son...
2022-01-1745 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1986 - September: Bon Jovi “Slippery When Wet”This is the album that turned heavy metal into pop, or started the hair metal genre of the 80's.  Slippery When Wet was the third studio album by Bon Jovi, and would be their best selling album to date. The band was David Bryan on keyboards, Tico Torres on percussion, Alec John Such on bass, Richie Sambora on guitar, and Jon Bon Jovi on lead vocals and rhythm guitar. Bon Jovi deliberately targeted a mainstream audience with this album.  They wrote 30 songs and auditioned them to teenagers in New York and New Jersey.  The album's son...
2022-01-1745 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - October: Squeeze “Singles - 45 and Under”Squeeze came out of the mid-70's New Wave scene in the UK, but would cross genres into Rockabilly, R&B, and Psychedelia by the early 80's.  In 1982 they released Singles - 45's and Under as a compilation album of their biggest hits.  Squeeze was led by two singer songwriters, Chris Dilford (rhythm guitar and vocals) and Glenn Tilbrook (keyboards, lead guitar, vocals) who composed most of their material.  At the time of the release of this “greatest hits” album, the band had broken up, leaving only Dilford and Tilbrook as a duet.  The pair would normally work with Dilford...
2021-12-0644 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - October: Squeeze “Singles - 45 and Under”Squeeze came out of the mid-70's New Wave scene in the UK, but would cross genres into Rockabilly, R&B, and Psychedelia by the early 80's.  In 1982 they released Singles - 45's and Under as a compilation album of their biggest hits.  Squeeze was led by two singer songwriters, Chris Dilford (rhythm guitar and vocals) and Glenn Tilbrook (keyboards, lead guitar, vocals) who composed most of their material.  At the time of the release of this “greatest hits” album, the band had broken up, leaving only Dilford and Tilbrook as a duet.  The pair would normally work with Dilford...
2021-12-0644 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - March: The Guess Who “American Woman”Who is the finest rock band to come out of Winnipeg, Canada?  That's right, The Guess Who.  In January 1970 they released their sixth studio album, American Woman, and were riding the wave of one of their most commercially successful albums in March.  This album took a harder rock direction from their formerly psychedelic and pop sound, and would produce their only number 1 hit in the US, making them the first Canadian band to top the American Hot 100 chart. The Guess Who got their name in 1965 when their record label, Quality Records, released a single under the name “Guess...
2020-08-2436 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1975 - April: Aerosmith ”Toys in the Attic”With their third studio album Aerosmith really came into their own.  Toys in the Attic would be their most commercially successful studio album in the United States, and would spawn two enduring rock anthems.   Aerosmith came out of Boston in 1970 with Steve Tyler on lead vocals and harmonica, Tom Hamilton on bass, Joe Perry on guitar, Brad Whitford also on guitar, and Joey Kramer on drums.  Toys in the Attic was immediately successful and made Aerosmith into international stars.  Their first top 40 hit, "Sweet Emotion," came off this album, and its success encouraged listeners to chec...
2020-08-1735 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1965 — February: Herman’s Hermits “Introducing Herman’s Hermits”Introducing Herman’s Hermits is the the debut album for the band Herman’s Hermits.  Front man Peter Noone was an actor on "Coronation Street," a British TV soap opera.  The resemblance between Noone and a character named Sherman (from the Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoon) was noted, and this name was shortened to "Herman."  The group would start using the name "Herman and His Hermits," and this was also shortened to "Herman's Hermits." Herman's Hermits were a part of the British Invasion of the early 60's, which included acts like the Dave Clark 5, The Merseybeats, and of course...
2020-08-1025 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1970 - January: Chicago “Chicago II”Although commonly called Chicago II, this album is technically the first Chicago album because their first album was under the name The Chicago Transit Authority.  They changed their name in 1969 under pressure from the municipal governmental body called the Chicago Transit Authority. Chicago II is a double album, full of jams and their trademark horns.  The first four albums would all be double albums.  We're going to feature two songs from this album, although one is actually a seven part song cycle with at least two parts you will identify as well known singles. Chicago is...
2020-08-0336 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1981 - May: The Go-Go’s “Beauty and the Beat”I can tell what you're thinking:  really, What the Riff?  The Go-Go's?  That's not rock, that's pop!  Well we'll agree that their debut album Beauty and the Beat was quite popular, but the group has its roots in the punk movement, not pop music. With Belinda Carlisle on lead vocals, Charlotte Caffey on lead guitar and keyboards, Gina Schock on percussion, Kathy Valentine on bass, and Jane Wiedlin on rhythm guitar, The Go-Go's were the first and (so far) only all female band to hit the top of the charts writing their OWN songs and playing their OWN...
2020-07-2731 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1971 - July: The Allman Brothers Band ”At Fillmore East”The Allman Brothers Band recorded their third album live in March 1971 over two days.  At Fillmore East would become their breakthrough album,  filled with enough blues-rock jams  to make it a double, despite the fact that there were only seven songs in total.  Brothers Duane and Gregg Allman realized that their strength was rooted in their live shows, and determined that the best showcase for them would be a live album. The band features Gregg Allman on vocals, piano, and organ, Duane Allman and Dickey Betts on guitars, Berry Oakley on bass guitar, and Butch Trucks and Jai...
2020-07-2044 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1981 - August: (various artists) ”Heavy Metal” SoundtrackIn 1977 Leonard Mogel began publishing a dark, illustrated, steampunk, and somewhat erotic science fiction and fantasy magazine called Heavy Metal, and in 1981 an adult animated sci-fi fantasy film by the same name was produced by Mogel and Ivan Reitman.  The film would become a mainstay of the midnight movie circuit (along with “the Rocky Horror Picture Show”) throughout the 1980's, and would also lead to a hit album which would peak at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart. The movie mirrors a comic book, in that it strings together a number of shorter vignettes into an entire animated movie...
2020-07-1338 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1987 - May: Hoodoo Gurus ”Blow Your Cool!”We’re headed back down under this week with Australian group Hoodoo Gurus and their third album, Blow Your Cool!  The Gurus formed Sydney in 1981 under songwriter, guitarist, and lead singer Dave Faulkner. The group was fleshed out by Richard Grossman on bass, Mark Kingmill on drums, and Brad Shepherd on guitar, harmonica, and vocals.  Hoodoo Gurus were most popular on college radio, and this album was released at the peak of their popularity.  The Gurus were influenced by B movies and pop culture of the 60's, and the similarity to the B-52's is clear. Fri...
2020-07-0633 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1994 - January: Alice in Chains “Jar of Flies”Seattle based Alice in Chains may have been associated with the grunge music for which Seattle was famous at the time, but they departed from the standard grunge scene in many ways. Jar of Flies was actually an EP rather than a standard album, and so was shorter than the extended length albums that many groups were producing during the CD era.  While Alice in Chains had more of a heavy metal sound than many of their contemporaries, this album was their second acoustic EP.  It was also the first EP to ever debut at number one! Al...
2020-06-2942 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1966 - August: Wilson Pickett “The Exciting Wilson Pickett”While you may think of Motown when you first hear Wilson Pickett, this sound is neither from Detroit or its counterpart from Philadelphia.  This is from the deep south with the deep soul of the 2 M's - Memphis and Muscle Shoals.  The Exciting Wilson Pickett was Pickett's third studio album and firmly established his credentials as one of the leading lights of Soul music.     Pickett grew up in Alabama, and like many soul singers at the time he got his start in church.  He had a contentious relationship with his mother who he described as "the baddest woman...
2020-06-2226 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1966 - August: Wilson Pickett “The Exciting Wilson Pickett”While you may think of Motown when you first hear Wilson Pickett, this sound is neither from Detroit or its counterpart from Philadelphia.  This is from the deep south with the deep soul of the 2 M's - Memphis and Muscle Shoals.  The Exciting Wilson Pickett was Pickett's third studio album and firmly established his credentials as one of the leading lights of Soul music.     Pickett grew up in Alabama, and like many soul singers at the time he got his start in church.  He had a contentious relationship with his mother who he described as "the baddest woman...
2020-06-2226 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1977 - October: E.L.O. “Out of the Blue”By the time they released their seventh studio album, Out of the Blue,  British rock band E.L.O., also known as the Electric Light Orchestra was a successful machine for rock hits with a “Beatleseque Pop” sound.  The Beatles connection was not random, as guitarist and founding member Roy Wood wanted to introduce strings, violins, cellos, basses, horns and woodwinds to Rock music, and “pick up where the Beatles left off.”  ELO was formed by Wood on guitar, Bev Bevan on drums, and Jeff Lynne on  vocals and guitars.  Over time Lynne would become  synonymous with the group.   Out of th...
2020-06-1538 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - January: The J. Geils Band ”Freeze Frame”This tenth studio album by The J. Geils Band would be a departure from their blues rock and mainstream pieces for which they were known in the 70's, and would be their most commercially successful.  Freeze Frame took The J. Geils Band from a regional band to international stardom.  The band consisted of John (J.) Geils on guitar, Seth Justman on keyboards, Stephen Bladd on drums, Danny Klein on bass, Peter Wolf on lead vocals, and Richard Salwitz (aka Magic Dick) on harmonica, trumpet, and saxophone.  The album was arranged and produced by keyboardist Seth Justman, and all...
2020-06-0843 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1976 - March: Bad Company “Run with the Pack”English supergroup Bad Company continued their successful streak with their third studio album, Run with the Pack.  Frontman/guitarist/panist Paul Rodgers and drummer Simon Kirke came out of the band Free, guitarist/keyboardist Mick Ralph came out of Mott the Hoople, and bassist Boz Burrell was originally with King Crimson.  Paul Rodgers' voice is quite distinctive, and you can tell a “Bad Co.” song just from that voice. The name of the group came from a book of Victorian morals.  It showed a picture depicting a child looking up at a ruffian leaning against a lamp post.  ...
2020-06-0138 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1983 - May: INXS “Shabooh Shoobah”Originally named The Farriss Brothers when they formed in 1977, brothers Andrew Farriss (keyboards and Founder), Jon Farriss (drums), and Tim Farriss (guitar) joined with bassist Garry Gary Beers, saxophonist/guitarist Kirk Pengilly, and front man Michael Hutchense not long after high school.  They took the name INXS at the suggestion of members of the band Midnight Oil, whom they were supporting at the time.   Shabooh Shoobah is their third studio album, and the first to be released worldwide.  While it was released in October 1982, the rise of INXS can be tracked to their performance in the 1983 US Fes...
2020-05-2538 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1978 — September: Boston “Don’t Look Back”Back in 1976 Boston took the rock world by storm with their debut, and largely self-produced, album.  This highly anticipated second album made its appearance two years later, a span of time which would in retrospect be considered quite fast - no other Boston album would appear for eight years.  Don't Look Back was originally entitled "Arrival," until the band discovered that ABBA had already released an album with that name.   Guitarist and producer Tom Scholz considered the album to be rushed out by the record label, and believed it was too short and needed another song.  This woul...
2020-05-1144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1978 — September: Boston “Don’t Look Back”Back in 1976 Boston took the rock world by storm with their debut, and largely self-produced, album.  This highly anticipated second album made its appearance two years later, a span of time which would in retrospect be considered quite fast - no other Boston album would appear for eight years.  Don't Look Back was originally entitled "Arrival," until the band discovered that ABBA had already released an album with that name.   Guitarist and producer Tom Scholz considered the album to be rushed out by the record label, and believed it was too short and needed another song.  This woul...
2020-05-1144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen2020 — April: Episode 100 “Just the WTR Guys”If you want to see some grainy footage, this 100th Episode is also available on YouTube.  It’s a recorded Zoom call, with a few graphics and photos from the studio.  Wayne discusses the genesis of the idea When and how did the idea for the podcast come up? Wayne's radio background and connections with guests for the show How do we choose who to bring on the show? How do we handle social media and promotions?   Bruce discusses research and blogging How do we research for the show? What websites are good...
2020-04-2757 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen2020 — April: Episode 100 “Just the WTR Guys”If you want to see some grainy footage, this 100th Episode is also available on YouTube.  It’s a recorded Zoom call, with a few graphics and photos from the studio.  Wayne discusses the genesis of the idea When and how did the idea for the podcast come up? Wayne's radio background and connections with guests for the show How do we choose who to bring on the show? How do we handle social media and promotions?   Bruce discusses research and blogging How do we research for the show? What websites are good...
2020-04-2757 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - February: MC5 ”Kick Out the Jams”When you're looking at revolution-focused rock of the late 60's, you have to put MC5 near the top of the pantheon. Their debut album, Kick Out the Jams, was also a live album, and captures the rage and the energy that would inspire the garage band and punk movement in the years to come. MC5 stands for "the Motor City Five," and was frontman Rob Tyner, lead guitarist Wayne Kramer, rhythm guitarist Fred "Sonic" Smith, bassist Michael Davis, and Dennis Thompson on drums. This is a raw "punch in the gut" album, underground, very rebellious. MC5 was politically active...
2020-01-2732 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - February: MC5 ”Kick Out the Jams”When you're looking at revolution-focused rock of the late 60's, you have to put MC5 near the top of the pantheon. Their debut album, Kick Out the Jams, was also a live album, and captures the rage and the energy that would inspire the garage band and punk movement in the years to come. MC5 stands for "the Motor City Five," and was frontman Rob Tyner, lead guitarist Wayne Kramer, rhythm guitarist Fred "Sonic" Smith, bassist Michael Davis, and Dennis Thompson on drums. This is a raw "punch in the gut" album, underground, very rebellious. MC5 was politically active...
2020-01-2732 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenChristmas Songs that Rock (II)When we did our Rock-and-Roll Christmas "rabbit hole" episode last year we realized that there are just too many Rocking Christmas songs to be held in a single podcast. So we're coming back to you this year with another selection of Christmas songs that rock! “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” by- Ronnie James Dio  This selection from the former Rainbow and Black Sabbath front man puts a metal twist on a 16th century carol. “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” by The Barenaked Ladies  A more mellow take on the same song features stripped down acoustics and harmon...
2019-12-0950 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next GenChristmas Songs that Rock (II)When we did our Rock-and-Roll Christmas "rabbit hole" episode last year we realized that there are just too many Rocking Christmas songs to be held in a single podcast. So we're coming back to you this year with another selection of Christmas songs that rock! “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” by- Ronnie James Dio  This selection from the former Rainbow and Black Sabbath front man puts a metal twist on a 16th century carol. “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” by The Barenaked Ladies  A more mellow take on the same song features stripped down acoustics and harmon...
2019-12-0950 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1968 - January: Small Faces “There Are But Four Small Faces”One of the most famous of the British "mod" groups, Small Faces was founded by Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Jimmy Winston (although Winston had been replaced by Ian McLagan by this album). Small Faces was solidly in the psychedelic rock category. Small Faces toured with The Who, a group also known as a "mod" group. The name comes from the fact that all the members were under 5' 9". There Are But Four Small Faces was an international alternative to their eponymous second album released in 1967 in Britain. Talk to You This song was...
2019-10-2827 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1968 - January: Small Faces “There Are But Four Small Faces”One of the most famous of the British "mod" groups, Small Faces was founded by Steve Marriott, Ronnie Lane, Kenney Jones, and Jimmy Winston (although Winston had been replaced by Ian McLagan by this album). Small Faces was solidly in the psychedelic rock category. Small Faces toured with The Who, a group also known as a "mod" group. The name comes from the fact that all the members were under 5' 9". There Are But Four Small Faces was an international alternative to their eponymous second album released in 1967 in Britain. Talk to You This song was...
2019-10-2827 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1976 - January - Styx - EquinoxThis week, Wayne brings us Equinox, the fifth studio album by Styx. This would be their first album for A&M Records and their last album with guitarist John Curulewski. He would be replaced by guitarist and singer Tommy Shaw on their next release, “The Grand Illusion,” at which point Styx would take the form which most of us remember as one of the groups that make up the soundtrack of our childhood. Equinox would only go to #58 on the album charts, but would see a resurgence with the release of The Grand Illusion in 1977. Midnight Ride ...
2019-08-1940 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1976 - January - Styx - EquinoxThis week, Wayne brings us Equinox, the fifth studio album by Styx. This would be their first album for A&M Records and their last album with guitarist John Curulewski. He would be replaced by guitarist and singer Tommy Shaw on their next release, “The Grand Illusion,” at which point Styx would take the form which most of us remember as one of the groups that make up the soundtrack of our childhood. Equinox would only go to #58 on the album charts, but would see a resurgence with the release of The Grand Illusion in 1977. Midnight Ride ...
2019-08-1940 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1988 - April - The Godfathers - Birth, School, Work, DeathSometimes classified as alternative rock or new wave, London band The Godfathers has a British punk feel to it with their stark lyrics and cynical style — one that Wayne loves and appreciates! Peter and Chris Coyne formed this five piece group, and dressed in mafia-style suits with skinny ties. When they toured the United States, Living Colour was their opening act. Their sound is "brass knuckles punches," and "body slamming production." Join us on this journey as we explore Birth, School, Work, Death​ - a rough and tumble yet melodic album. S.T.B. This song was...
2019-06-1037 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1988 - April - The Godfathers - Birth, School, Work, DeathSometimes classified as alternative rock or new wave, London band The Godfathers has a British punk feel to it with their stark lyrics and cynical style — one that Wayne loves and appreciates! Peter and Chris Coyne formed this five piece group, and dressed in mafia-style suits with skinny ties. When they toured the United States, Living Colour was their opening act. Their sound is "brass knuckles punches," and "body slamming production." Join us on this journey as we explore Birth, School, Work, Death​ - a rough and tumble yet melodic album. S.T.B. This song was...
2019-06-1037 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1981 - March - The Producers - The ProducersThis will be a familiar band to those of us who grew up in metro-Atlanta in the 80's, and will be a treat to the rest. The Producers got national airplay in the 80's with their new wave, high energy sound. Both this debut album and their follow-up "You Make the Heat" were big, and they probably hit the height of their popularity when they headlined MTV's New Year's Rockin' Eve party in 1982. The Producers (Van Temple, Kyle Henderson, Bryan Holmes, and Wayne Famous) are still playing — so make a point of seeing them live when they play nearby. We...
2019-06-0338 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1981 - March - The Producers - The ProducersThis will be a familiar band to those of us who grew up in metro-Atlanta in the 80's, and will be a treat to the rest. The Producers got national airplay in the 80's with their new wave, high energy sound. Both this debut album and their follow-up "You Make the Heat" were big, and they probably hit the height of their popularity when they headlined MTV's New Year's Rockin' Eve party in 1982. The Producers (Van Temple, Kyle Henderson, Bryan Holmes, and Wayne Famous) are still playing — so make a point of seeing them live when they play nearby. We...
2019-06-0338 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - August - Humble Pie - As Safe as Yesterday is.August 1969 — Humble Pie — “As Safe as Yesterday is” Wayne presents this incredible album featuring both Steve Marriott and Peter Frampton on vocals and guitar. It is easy to see how Humble Pie was such a powerful - but underrated - rock band at the end of the 60's. Their debut album “As Safe as Yesterday is” was a UK release, and remains surprisingly hard to pin down in genres with its mix of pop, rock, and blues - it was even one of the first albums to be described as “heavy metal.” Let's take a look at this groundbreaking album and see fo...
2019-02-2541 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1969 - August - Humble Pie - As Safe as Yesterday is.August 1969 — Humble Pie — “As Safe as Yesterday is” Wayne presents this incredible album featuring both Steve Marriott and Peter Frampton on vocals and guitar. It is easy to see how Humble Pie was such a powerful - but underrated - rock band at the end of the 60's. Their debut album “As Safe as Yesterday is” was a UK release, and remains surprisingly hard to pin down in genres with its mix of pop, rock, and blues - it was even one of the first albums to be described as “heavy metal.” Let's take a look at this groundbreaking album and see fo...
2019-02-2541 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - October - The Who - QuadropheniaOctober 1973 — “Quadrophenia By the time this sixth studio album (and second rock opera) rolled out in 1973 The Who were already icons in the Rock genre. The double album Quadrophenia tracks the downward spiral of a young “mod” named Jimmy in 1965 Brighton, UK. Some of the most well known Who songs originate from this rock opera including "The Real Me," and "Love, Reign O'er Me." We're joined this week by “What the Riff Friend” Tim Andrews from WSB radio and the Radio Labyrinth podcast to co-host as we delve into this giant group and album. “I’m One” This song...
2019-02-1841 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1973 - October - The Who - QuadropheniaOctober 1973 — “Quadrophenia By the time this sixth studio album (and second rock opera) rolled out in 1973 The Who were already icons in the Rock genre. The double album Quadrophenia tracks the downward spiral of a young “mod” named Jimmy in 1965 Brighton, UK. Some of the most well known Who songs originate from this rock opera including "The Real Me," and "Love, Reign O'er Me." We're joined this week by “What the Riff Friend” Tim Andrews from WSB radio and the Radio Labyrinth podcast to co-host as we delve into this giant group and album. “I’m One” This song...
2019-02-1841 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - June - Collective Soul - Hints, Allegations & Things Left UnsaidJune 1993 — “Hints, Allegations & Things Left Unsaid” by Collective Soul Our first Podcast with a special guest. Steve Hardin teams up with Rob to present Stockbridge, Georgia-originating band Collective Soul. They didn't set out to be a world famous band. In fact, frontman Ed Roland wrote what would be the band's debut album as a demo in his basement, hoping to sell songs to others as a songwriter rather than perform songs in his own band. “Hints, Allegations and Things Left Unsaid” would instead become a hit on indie radio (WRAS album 88.5 FM from Georgia State), and the debut album is their d...
2019-02-1144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - June - Collective Soul - Hints, Allegations & Things Left UnsaidJune 1993 — “Hints, Allegations & Things Left Unsaid” by Collective Soul Our first Podcast with a special guest. Steve Hardin teams up with Rob to present Stockbridge, Georgia-originating band Collective Soul. They didn't set out to be a world famous band. In fact, frontman Ed Roland wrote what would be the band's debut album as a demo in his basement, hoping to sell songs to others as a songwriter rather than perform songs in his own band. “Hints, Allegations and Things Left Unsaid” would instead become a hit on indie radio (WRAS album 88.5 FM from Georgia State), and the debut album is their d...
2019-02-1144 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1991 - September - Pearl Jam - TenSeptember 1991 — “Ten” by Pearl Jam Bursting out of what was becoming the Seattle scene Pearl Jam achieved mainstream success with its debut album, anachronistically named Ten​. The popularity of the album was slow coming, but has shown a staying power over the decades. Often identified with the grunge movement, and considered highly influential, Pearl Jam nevertheless defies labels. Their strong melodies and melancholy, open lyrics evoke not only grunge, but metal, alternative rock, and straightforward hard rock. Join us as we focus on what Wayne considers "the month that changed rock and roll." “Once” This is the first...
2019-01-1443 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1991 - September - Pearl Jam - TenSeptember 1991 — “Ten” by Pearl Jam Bursting out of what was becoming the Seattle scene Pearl Jam achieved mainstream success with its debut album, anachronistically named Ten​. The popularity of the album was slow coming, but has shown a staying power over the decades. Often identified with the grunge movement, and considered highly influential, Pearl Jam nevertheless defies labels. Their strong melodies and melancholy, open lyrics evoke not only grunge, but metal, alternative rock, and straightforward hard rock. Join us as we focus on what Wayne considers "the month that changed rock and roll." “Once” This is the first...
2019-01-1443 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1988 - August - Jane’s Addiction - Nothing’s Shocking“Nothing’s Shocking” by Jane’s Addiction Wayne presents this album, “Nothing's Shocking,” — the first studio album by Jane's Addiction. This alternative rock band from Los Angeles had released a self-titled live album in 1987. Perry Farrell was the lead singer and writer for the group. The group would break up in the early 90's over how to split the money. Although tensions in the band would drive the split, their heavy, angry, wall-of-sound approach would lead the way for the grunge music to come a few years later. We hope you enjoy this heavy hitting feature. “Idiots Rule...
2018-12-1741 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1988 - August - Jane’s Addiction - Nothing’s Shocking“Nothing’s Shocking” by Jane’s Addiction Wayne presents this album, “Nothing's Shocking,” — the first studio album by Jane's Addiction. This alternative rock band from Los Angeles had released a self-titled live album in 1987. Perry Farrell was the lead singer and writer for the group. The group would break up in the early 90's over how to split the money. Although tensions in the band would drive the split, their heavy, angry, wall-of-sound approach would lead the way for the grunge music to come a few years later. We hope you enjoy this heavy hitting feature. “Idiots Rule...
2018-12-1741 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - March - Asia - AsiaMARCH of 1982 “Asia” by Asia In early 1981 with the apparent demise of prog-rock supergroups Yes and Emerson Lake & Palmer, a new supergroup began. With Jon Wetton (King Crimson) on vocals and bass guitar, Steve Howe (Yes) on lead guitar, Geoff Downes (Yes and The Buggles) on keyboards, and Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake, and Palmer) on drums, Asia began work on this self-titled debut album which would rocket up the charts with a combination of complex musicality and tight, accessible tracks. The continuing popularity of MTV would help propel this supergroup to commercial success that would last beyond The Heat of t...
2018-10-2943 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1982 - March - Asia - AsiaMARCH of 1982 “Asia” by Asia In early 1981 with the apparent demise of prog-rock supergroups Yes and Emerson Lake & Palmer, a new supergroup began. With Jon Wetton (King Crimson) on vocals and bass guitar, Steve Howe (Yes) on lead guitar, Geoff Downes (Yes and The Buggles) on keyboards, and Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake, and Palmer) on drums, Asia began work on this self-titled debut album which would rocket up the charts with a combination of complex musicality and tight, accessible tracks. The continuing popularity of MTV would help propel this supergroup to commercial success that would last beyond The Heat of t...
2018-10-2943 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1965 - SEPT - Animal Tracks - The Animals“Animal Tracks” by The Animals Wayne hosts this episode on The Animals. Formed in 1962 as an electric blues/rock band, The Animals followed a trend amongst many British Invasion groups of the day in arranging blues songs in a rock format. They would later get more psychedelic, but the album Animal Tracks is from their earlier, blues-focused era. Eric Burdon fronts the group, and The Animals would become Eric Burdon and the Animals after some of the original members left in 1966. Join us as we get out of this place and to the sixties blues of The Animals! Cl...
2018-09-1027 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1965 - SEPT - Animal Tracks - The Animals“Animal Tracks” by The Animals Wayne hosts this episode on The Animals. Formed in 1962 as an electric blues/rock band, The Animals followed a trend amongst many British Invasion groups of the day in arranging blues songs in a rock format. They would later get more psychedelic, but the album Animal Tracks is from their earlier, blues-focused era. Eric Burdon fronts the group, and The Animals would become Eric Burdon and the Animals after some of the original members left in 1966. Join us as we get out of this place and to the sixties blues of The Animals! Cl...
2018-09-1027 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - AUG - Grave Dancer’s Union - Soul Asylum** GRAVE DANCER'S UNION by Soul Asylum ** Wayne shares this great album by 90s sensation, Soul Asylum. Black Gold Somebody to Shove Get on Out April Fools ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Theme from “Frazier.” STAFF PICKS: "Believe" by Lenny Kravitz — Bruce. “Fields of Gold” by Sting — Brian. “Come Undone” by Duran Duran - Rob. “Not Quite Sonic” by Mother Earth — Wayne. LAUGH TRACK: "Three Little Pigs" by Green Jelly. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOT...
2018-09-0341 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1993 - AUG - Grave Dancer’s Union - Soul Asylum** GRAVE DANCER'S UNION by Soul Asylum ** Wayne shares this great album by 90s sensation, Soul Asylum. Black Gold Somebody to Shove Get on Out April Fools ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Theme from “Frazier.” STAFF PICKS: "Believe" by Lenny Kravitz — Bruce. “Fields of Gold” by Sting — Brian. “Come Undone” by Duran Duran - Rob. “Not Quite Sonic” by Mother Earth — Wayne. LAUGH TRACK: "Three Little Pigs" by Green Jelly. Thanks for listening to “What the Riff?!?” NOT...
2018-09-0341 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1966 - APRIL - If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears - The Mamas and the PapasIf You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears, by the Mamas and the Papas Brian hosted this Album. Monday Monday California Dreamin' Hey Girl Go Where You Want to Go Got a Feelin' ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Theme from Flipper. STAFF PICKS: "Five o'clock World" The Vogues Wayne's pick. “Groovy Kind of Love” - Wayne Fontana & the MindBenders Rob's Pick. "Shapes of Things" - The Yardbirds Bruce's Pick. “19th Nervous Breakdown” - Rolling Stones Brian's pick. LAUGH TRACK: Spanish Flea - H...
2018-07-3030 minWhat the Riff Next Gen
What the Riff Next Gen1966 - APRIL - If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears - The Mamas and the PapasIf You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears, by the Mamas and the Papas Brian hosted this Album. Monday Monday California Dreamin' Hey Girl Go Where You Want to Go Got a Feelin' ENTERTAINMENT TRACK: Theme from Flipper. STAFF PICKS: "Five o'clock World" The Vogues Wayne's pick. “Groovy Kind of Love” - Wayne Fontana & the MindBenders Rob's Pick. "Shapes of Things" - The Yardbirds Bruce's Pick. “19th Nervous Breakdown” - Rolling Stones Brian's pick. LAUGH TRACK: Spanish Flea - H...
2018-07-3030 min