Episodes
#725 The Rolling Stones' Exile on Main St.
Oct 18 2019
Though originally panned by many critics, the Rolling Stones' 1972 album Exile on Main St. is now considered a masterpiece. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot serve up a classic album dissection for the deeply influential recording.
#724 Songs We Love By Bands We Don't, Opinions on Nick Cave & Farewell to Ginger Baker & Kim Shattuck
Oct 11 2019
Have you ever listened to a song and loved it, only to find out it’s by an artist you can’t stand? Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot will explore the concept of great songs by horrible artists and share a few of their favorites. Plus they'll review Ghosteen from Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds and pay tribute to drummer Ginger Baker and The Muffs' Kim Shattuck.
#723 Family Bands & Opinions on Wilco
Oct 04 2019
The family that plays together, stays together, right? If you‘ve ever traveled in a van with your mother, father, sister or brother, you know it's not that easy. From Sister Sledge to The Cowsills, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of the great Family Bands that made it work. Plus, Jim and Greg review Ode To Joy, the latest album from alt-rock band Wilco.
#722 Fugazi's Repeater, Opinions on Psychedelic Country Artist Sturgill Simpson
Sep 27 2019
Washington D.C. post-punk band Fugazi reshaped the definition of punk in America. Their 1990 debut album, Repeater, connected with a generation and eventually sold more than a million copies. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with founding member Ian MacKaye about the writing and recording of the album and its impact. Plus we review Sturgill Simpson's new album, Sound and Fury, and learn what song got a member of the band Dehd "Hooked on Sonics."
#721 Opinions on Tool, Lana Del Rey & More, Farewell to Ric Ocasek & Daniel Johnston
Sep 20 2019
With an influx of new music, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot decide it's time for a review roundup. They share their opinions on records by Tool, Lana Del Rey, Common and more. They also pay tribute to the late Cars' frontman Ric Ocasek and solo artist Daniel Johnston.
#720 Buried Treasures & Peter Lewis of Moby Grape
Sep 13 2019
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are always on the lookout for buried treasures - newly released music that is flying underneath the critical and commercial radar. They're back this week with some exciting new songs. Jim and Greg also talk with a member of a somewhat buried treasure act from the past, Peter Lewis of Moby Grape. They discuss ways the 1960s San Francisco group turned convention on its head and some of the bad luck that befell the band.
#719 James Alexander of the Bar-Kays & Favorite Bass Lines
Sep 06 2019
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are joined by legendary funk and R&B bassist James Alexander of the Bar-Kays. They discuss his early days as a pivotal part of the Stax Records house band in Memphis and the enduring legacy of 1971's Shaft Soundtrack, which featured the Bar-Kays as the backing band. Then, Jim and Greg share some of their favorite bass lines (as well as the songs' players). Bass players usually aren't the flashiest members of a band, but they're a pivotal part of its he...more
#718 Whitney & Songs About Quitting Work
Aug 30 2019
While critical and commercially successful “soft rock” music is rare in 2019, the Chicago band Whitney found a way to make it sound fresh and indie. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with the two main members of the band about how they came to their unique sound and their new album Forever Turned Around, released August 30th.
#717 Best Music Cameos & Opinions on Raphael Saadiq
Aug 23 2019
Sometimes, all it takes for a song to go from good to great is the addition of a guest artist, whether it’s a rapper going in on the verse or a guitarist shredding a solo. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite musical cameos. They also review the latest from R&B singer Raphael Saadiq.
#716 The Mountain Goats, Opinions on Sleater-Kinney & The Regrettes
Aug 16 2019
Over the course of 17 albums, The Mountain Goats have gone from a super lo-fi solo project to a polished four piece combo. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are joined by the whole band for an exclusive performance and interview with songwriter John Darnielle and drummer Jon Wurster. They also review the new albums from Sleater-Kinney and The Regrettes.
#715 The Legend of Robert Johnson
Aug 09 2019
For decades, the myths surrounding Robert Johnson overshadowed his contributions as a singer, songwriter and guitarist. From the legend that he sold his soul to the devil at the crossroads to mystery surrounding his untimely death at age 27, the truths of Johnson’s life have remained untold. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with music historian Bruce Conforth about Johnson’s career, death and working to give the guitarist his identity back. They also share some of their favorite ...more
#714 Why the Ramones Matter, Tommy Ramone & Opinions on Chance the Rapper
Aug 02 2019
Back in the 1970s, punk was shorthand for a subculture that took pride in breaking the mainstream’s mold. And at the vanguard of punk rock was The Ramones. Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore the cultural contributions of the band, beyond the myth, with the author of Why The Ramones Matter, Donna Gaines. Plus, they revisit their 2007 conversation with the late Tommy Ramone. They also review the latest from Chicago's Chance the Rapper.
#713 Australian Singer-Songwriter Julia Jacklin, Opinions on Blood Orange
Jul 26 2019
While Australian singer-songwriter Julia Jacklin’s voice has a soft vibrato and sweet tone, her lyrics are laced with a dry sense of humor and unflinching honesty. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk to Julia about her new album, the pressure to appear perfect on social media and how as a performer and woman she sets boundaries to stay sane. She also gives a live performance at the Goose Island Tap Room in Chicago.
#712 Buried Treasures & Tasha
Jul 19 2019
It's time again for hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to share their latest buried treasures: recently released, under-the-radar albums you need to hear! They'll also chat with Chicago singer, songwriter and guitarist Tasha about her music, which champions marginalized people as well as prioritizes topics like self care.
#711 Marvin Gaye's What's Going On & the Wah-Wah Pedal
Jul 12 2019
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot look back on Marvin Gaye's classic album What's Going On. They discuss the tracks, cultural climate and overarching themes of the 1971 album, many of which are more relevant than ever today.
#710 Neil Young & Crazy Horse's Rust Never Sleeps on its 40th Anniversary, the Rickenbacker 12-String Guitar
Jul 05 2019
Forty years later, Neil Young and Crazy Horse's masterpiece Rust Never Sleeps still captivates listeners and critics with its simple melodies, complex lyrics and punk-inspired sound. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot discuss the album's impact and how Young's blend of acoustic and electric made for an iconic musical experience. They'll also discuss the electric Rickenbacker 12-String guitar, an instrument that was featured prominently in songs by bands ranging from the Beatles to the B...more
#709 Music That Made Me & the Universal Music Warehouse Fire
Jun 28 2019
Most music lovers can point to a song that made them: perhaps one that helps define them, or just one of those songs that defines a time in their life. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of the music that made them. They also talk with music journalist Jody Rosen about his investigative article for The New York Times Magazine about the Universal Music Group Warehouse fire and the hundreds of thousands of master recordings that were lost.
#708 The Best Albums of 2019 So Far
Jun 21 2019
So many great albums come out every year that hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot can’t wait until December to start ranking their favorites. This week, the Best Albums of 2019 So Far.
#707 Roky Erickson, Dr. John & Jim DeRogatis on R. Kelly
Jun 14 2019
Roky Erickson and his group the 13th Floor Elevators spread the psychedelic gospel in the heart of Texas in the 1960s and influenced groups like R.E.M. and ZZ Top. After a tumultuous life that included a long battle with schizophrenia, Roky died last month at 71. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot pay tribute this week on Sound Opinions. Plus, Greg interviews Jim about what he learned about the nature of music in 19 years of investigating R. Kelly and they say goodbye to Dr. John.
#706 Mavis Staples
Jun 07 2019
As a member of her family group The Staple Singers and as a solo artist, Mavis Staples has used her huge voice to power the Civil Rights Movement and inspire generations. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot revisit their intimate discussion of her life and career as the gospel and soul legend approaches 80 years old.
#705 Buried Treasures & Ex Hex
May 31 2019
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are ready and raring to go with some new buried treasures: recent, under-the-radar albums that you need to hear. They also talk with the rock trio Ex Hex, led by Mary Timony, about their new record, plus the group gives a live performance.
#704 De La Soul's 3 Feet High and Rising & Opinions on The National
May 24 2019
In the digital age, most of us assume that every piece of music that ever was is available at the push of a button. But this week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot bring us a Classic Album Dissection of a recording that, despite its significance, is unavailable on digital platforms: De La Soul's 3 Feet High and Rising. They discuss the making of the groundbreaking hip-hop album, its importance, and why this classic is so hard to hear today. Plus, Jim and Greg review I Am Easy To Find, the latest...more
#703 Paisley Underground, The Shangri-Las' Leader of the Pack & Opinions on Tacocat
May 17 2019
In early '80s California, a new kind of music was brewing that blended the psychedelic sounds of the ‘60s with the modern day post-punk ethos. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot reflect on the Paisley Underground movement. They’ll discuss the prominent bands like The Bangles, explore what made the scene so special and explain its impact on indie rock. Jim and Greg will also look back at the 1964 hit by The Shangri-Las, "Leader of the Pack," for its 55th anniversary. Plus, they'll review...more
#702 Sharon Van Etten & Opinions on Jamila Woods
May 10 2019
Edgy folk-rocker Sharon Van Etten is busier than ever after quitting the music industry four years ago. Now she’s back and experimenting with new sounds, like the vintage synthesizer that lives in her New York City rehearsal space. Sharon joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for an interview and performance of music from her latest release, Remind Me Tomorrow. They also review the new record from Chicago singer and poet Jamila Woods.
#701 Band Reunions, Opinions on Vampire Weekend
May 03 2019
Summer is coming…and that means a slew of music festivals and arena concerts around the country. Many bands hit the road for reunion tours, often times without all their original members. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore whether or not it’s sacrilegious to see a band missing its key original members. They’ll also share some of their favorite band reunions, ones that lived up to or even surpassed the originals. Plus, a review of the latest from Vampire Weekend.
#700 Sound Opinions in Space, Opinions on Lizzo & Emily King
Apr 26 2019
For Sound Opinions' 700th episode, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are taking the show to outer space! They'll share some of their favorite songs about space in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. Plus, Jim and Greg review Cuz I Love You, the latest from hip hop and r&b artist Lizzo, and pop/soul singer-songwriter Emily King talks about the song that got her Hooked on Sonics.
#699 Moby, Opinions on Nico Segal's Intellexual
Apr 19 2019
Moby became the face of techno with the blockbuster success of his 1999 album Play. He’s since made several successful albums and put out his first memoir, Porcelain, in 2016. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot revisit their 2016 conversation with Moby in honor of his latest memoir, Then It Fell Apart.They also review the debut album from the group Intellexual, made up of frequent Chance the Rapper collaborators Nico Segal and Nate Fox.
#698 Buried Treasures, Rock Doctors, Opinions on Marvin Gaye
Apr 12 2019
As music critics and connoisseurs, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot always have new under-the-radar tracks that you need to hear! This week, they’ll share some of their latest buried treasures. They'll also check in as the Rock Doctors to give some musical advice to a patient in need, as well as share their thoughts on the recent posthumous release by Marvin Gaye.
#697 Shoegaze & Opinions on Priests
Apr 05 2019
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot dive into "Shoegaze." In the late '80s and early '90s, this sound developed in the U.K. and was typified by lots of guitar, atmosphere and noise. But while the height of Shoegaze only lasted a few years, its influence looms large today. Plus, Jim and Greg review the new album from Priests and learn what song got David Bazan "Hooked on Sonics."
#696 True Crime Songs, Opinions on Jenny Lewis & Sara Romweber
Mar 29 2019
There's a long tradition of blues and folk troubadours writing about subjects that are downright criminal. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk about true crime, or at least allegedly true crimes, that have been immortalized in song. Plus, a review of the latest from singer-songwriter Jenny Lewis, and a remembrance of drummer Sara Romweber.
#695 Alternative Country Singer-Songwriter Sarah Shook & SXSW 2019
Mar 22 2019
Sarah Shook is an artist expertly bridging the worlds of punk grime and honky tonk played on sawdust floors. But it's her smart, pithy lyrics about love that grip listeners and don't let go. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot chat with country singer-songwriter Sarah Shook about her musical journey, activism and her latest record, Years. Also, Greg will return from the South By Southwest music conference with a report on some of his new favorite bands.
#694 The Best of Sound Opinions Live & Hal Blaine
Mar 15 2019
Over the years, Sound Opinions has seen many great performances from the talented artists and bands that appeared. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of the biggest performances ever on the show, including artists like Wilco, Common and Cheap Trick. They'll also bid farewell to legendary session drummer Hal Blaine, who died at age 90.
#693 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Chaka Khan & Solange
Mar 08 2019
This week, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot unearth some Buried Treasures, musical gems that you may not have heard, but certainly should. Plus, the hosts review the latest releases from soul legend Chaka Khan and singer Solange.
#692 The Stooges' Fun House and Remembering Talk Talk's Mark Hollis
Mar 01 2019
In a Classic Album Dissection, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot examine The Stooges' Fun House record from 1970. The album brought together garage rock, rhythm and blues and free jazz, setting a template for the punk revolution to come. Stooges guitarist Ron Asheton talks about the album as well as producer Don Gallucci, whose unorthodox studio technique is credited with capturing the singular sound of The Stooges.
#691 The Story of Blues Label Alligator Records & Conversation with Buddy Guy
Feb 22 2019
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore the history and legacy of the almost 50-year-old Chicago blues label, Alligator Records, with its founder Bruce Iglauer. They'll talk to him about his new book Bitten By the Blues: The Alligator Records Story and discuss some of the landmark artists who came through, from Koko Taylor to Albert Collins. Jim and Greg will also revisit an interview they did with Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy.
#690 Songs About Writers, Opinions on Bob Mould & Sneaks
Feb 15 2019
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore literature’s influence on popular music and how famous scribes like Shakespeare, Oscar Wilde and more get name drops. They'll share some of their favorite songs about writers. They'll also review the latest from rocker Bob Mould and techno-indie artist Sneaks.
#689 Walk This Way: The Story of Run-DMC's Collaboration With Aerosmith, Opinions on Emily King
Feb 08 2019
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with author Geoff Edgers about his 2019 book Walk This Way: Run-DMC, Aerosmith, and the Song that Changed American Music Forever. They discuss how Run-DMC's 1986 collaboration with Aerosmith came about and its impact. Plus, a review of soulful singer-songwriter Emily King's latest album, Scenery.
#688 Weird Instruments of Rock, Opinions on Maggie Rogers & Sharon Van Etten
Feb 01 2019
Forget about the guitar, bass, and drums. This week, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore some of the weirder instruments of rock from the theremin to the ocarina to the cowbell. They'll also review new music from two singer-songwriters: the debut album from Maggie Rogers and the latest from Sharon Van Etten.
#687 Buried Treasures & Chicago Soul Band The O'My's
Jan 25 2019
Looking for some exciting new music to augment your 2019 playlist? Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their latest Buried Treasures: favorite under-the-radar records that you need to hear! Plus, Jim and Greg are joined by the Chicago soul band The O'My's at the Goose Island Tap Room. The group's latest album, Tomorrow, pushes its soulful sound into fresh, forward-leaning territory.
#686 Revolver Cover Artist and Bassist Klaus Voormann, The Artist vs. the Art
Jan 18 2019
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot sit down with artist and musician Klaus Voormann. Klaus shares his unique vantage point to rock and roll history: he designed the cover artwork for The Beatles’ album, Revolver, lived with George and Ringo and was a session bassist on many iconic albums in the 1970s including Imagine, All Things Must Pass and Plastic Ono Band. Also in the light of the recent R. Kelly docu-series, the hosts revisit their discussion about the artist vs. the art: whether art can be ...more
#685 Great Starts - Songs With Iconic Beginnings
Jan 11 2019
Sometimes songs make a strong, memorable statement from the very first note. This week, to start off the new year, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share songs with iconic starts.
#684 Great Duets & Writer Malcolm Gladwell
Jan 04 2019
There’s something about two performers, sometimes from different styles and points of view, coming together and creating a musical moment. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite duets. They'll also interview author Malcolm Gladwell and journalist Bruce Headlam from the Broken Record podcast.
#683 Jim & Greg's 2018 Mixtapes & In Memoriam
Dec 28 2018
Sound Opinions closes out 2018 with the year in song. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot present a mixtape of tracks that tell the story of the the past year. And we remember some of the many musicians who passed away in 2018.
#682 Rush & Paying Tribute to Pete Shelley of the Buzzcocks
Dec 21 2018
Famous for its instrumental virtuosity and heady, sci-fi influenced lyrics, the Canadian prog-rock trio Rush has amassed an obsessive cult following. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush join hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to discuss the band's remarkable 40 plus-year career. Jim and Greg will also say farewell to the leader of the punk band the Buzzcocks, Pete Shelley, who died earlier in December at age 63.
#681 Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular
Dec 14 2018
Whether you've been naughty or nice, Sound Opinions has a new sack full of holiday music for you. Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot welcome back record crate explorer and Christmas music aficionado Andy Cirzan for our annual Holiday Spectacular. This year, Andy celebrates his 30th season of hunting for Christmas music you'll hear nowhere else!
#680 The Best Albums of 2018
Dec 07 2018
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite albums of 2018. They also hear picks from Sound Opinions producers and listeners.
#679 Singer-Songwriter Amanda Shires & Opinions on Anderson .Paak & Art Brut
Nov 30 2018
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot have a conversation with country singer-songwriter Amanda Shires at the Goose Island Tap Room in Chicago. They discuss her literary lyrics, her latest album To The Sunset and how becoming a mom has influenced her art. She'll also perform live. Jim and Greg will also review new albums from hip hop artist Anderson .Paak and indie rock band Art Brut.
#678 Astral Weeks 50th Anniversary & Guest Desert Island Jukebox
Nov 23 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot conduct an Album Dissection of Van Morrison's 1968 classic Astral Weeks. The landmark release celebrates its 50th anniversary this month. Then, we hear from recent Sound Opinions guests about their Desert Island Jukebox picks... Tracks they can't live without.
#677 Buried Treasures & Dad Rap
Nov 16 2018
Looking for new music that's out of the mainstream? Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot uncover some buried treasures: recent releases that you need to hear! Plus, Jim and Greg talk with author Steven Hyden about the parallels between "Dad Rock" bands and "Dad Rap" stars.
#676 Lennon v. McCartney Solo Careers & Opinions on Vince Staples & Makaya McCraven
Nov 09 2018
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot discuss the post-Beatles careers of John Lennon and Paul McCartney... The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly. Plus, Jim and Greg review the new release from rapper Vince Staples and a hip-hop infused jazz album from drummer Makaya McCraven.
#675 21st Century Protest Music & Opinions on Robyn
Nov 02 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot discuss the impact of protest music in the 21st century and name a few of their favorite tracks from the genre from the last 18 years. They also review Robyn's new album, Honey, and Greg chooses a favorite song to add to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#674 Scary Songs For Halloween & Opinions on Greta Van Fleet
Oct 26 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot celebrate Halloween this week with a few of their favorite genre-spanning scary songs. Plus, we hear a selection of scary tunes nominated by listeners from around the country. They'll also give their opinions on the debut album from rock band Greta Van Fleet.
#673 Film & T.V. Music Supervisor Susan Jacobs, Opinions on Prince & Sam Phillips
Oct 19 2018
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with Emmy-winning music supervisor Susan Jacobs. Over her 30 year career, she's worked with directors like Spike Lee, David O. Russell and Robert Altman on placing music within movies. Most recently, she made the jump to television with HBO's Sharp Objects and Big Little Lies. Jim and Greg talk to Susan about the effects of great music on screen and how she convinced Led Zeppelin to let her expertly use the band's music in Sharp Objects. They'll a...more
#672 Buried Treasures & Beatles Audio Engineer Geoff Emerick
Oct 12 2018
It's Buried Treasures time yet again. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some new under-the-radar music that you need to hear! Plus, they revisit their 2006 conversation with Geoff Emerick, an audio engineer who worked on the classic Beatles albums Revolver, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and Abbey Road. Emerick passed away this month at the age of 72.
#671 Wayne Kramer of the MC5, Opinions on Noname & Otis Rush
Oct 05 2018
As the lead guitarist of the groundbreaking political rock band the MC5, Wayne Kramer experienced both the highs of recognition and the sting of defeat. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with Kramer 50 years after the band's iconic debut Kick Out the Jams. They chat about his new memoir, the '60s Detroit rock scene and discuss his experiences with overcoming drug abuse and jail time. Jim and Greg will also review the new album from hip hop artist Noname and pay tribute to the late Chicago bl...more
#670 Diss Tracks & Rock Doctors
Sep 28 2018
Though music can be a mighty force that brings people together, it can also be weaponized. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot look at memorable times musicians have used their art to settle scores in song: their favorite diss tracks of all time. They also bring back the Rock Doctors segment to help a mom find songs that empower her son without toxic masculinity. Basically the polar opposite of diss tracks.
#669 Dessa & Opinions on Paul McCartney
Sep 21 2018
Dessa is a poet, singer and hip hop artist who is as interested in scientific theory as she is in lyricism. Her latest album, Chime, showcases her unique hybrid of clever rapping and singing about sometimes weighty issues. Dessa joined hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot at the Goose Island Tap Room for a conversation and a live performance. Plus, Jim and Greg review Sir Paul McCartney's latest, Egypt Station.
#668 Disco & Seymour Stein
Sep 14 2018
For decades, people have maligned disco music. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot take an in-depth look at the genre from its origins in marginalized communities to its height of popularity. They'll also explore groundbreaking artists like Sylvester, the Bee Gees and more. Also, Greg talks to Sire Records co-founder Seymour Stein about signing acts like the Ramones and Madonna.
#667 Buried Treasures & Bat Fangs
Sep 07 2018
Looking for new music that's out of the mainstream? Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot uncover some buried treasures: under the radar tunes that you need to hear! They also interview the '80s hair metal-inspired band Bat Fangs.
#666 Mastodon's Brann Dailor & Songs About the Devil
Aug 31 2018
Over seven albums and 18 years, Mastodon has stretched the definition of metal. Co-founder, drummer and lyricist Brann Dailor recently joined hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to look back over the band’s career. The conversation ranges from forming in Atlanta to coping with personal tragedy through music. They also couldn’t resist asking how the heck they wound up as wildlings on Game of Thrones. Plus, Jim and Greg share a few of their favorite songs about the devil.
#665 Billions Co-Creator & Screenwriter Brian Koppelman, Opinions on The Coup & Amanda Shires
Aug 24 2018
Brian Koppelman makes his living as the showrunner, co-creator and writer for the Showtime series Billions. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with Koppelman about how he innovatively uses music in the critically acclaimed show. They also discuss his past career as an A&R executive, where he discovered artists like singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman. They'll also review the soundtrack to the critically acclaimed film Sorry to Bother You and the new release from country artist Amanda Shires. ...more
#664 Remembering Aretha Franklin
Aug 17 2018
The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, has died at age 76. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot celebrate the life and career of the legend. They'll discuss her discography, music activism and impact.
#663 Roxy Music
Aug 10 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot dig into Roxy Music's influential 1972 self-titled debut album. They get the inside story of the recording of Roxy Music with former Roxy Music guitarist Phil Manzanera, and discuss the album's lasting impact.
#662 Sound Opinions at Sea & Phoebe Bridgers
Aug 03 2018
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot take the show to the water with the episode Sound Opinions at Sea! They'll share some of their favorite songs about oceans, seas and more! Plus, a conversation and live performance at the Goose Island Tap Room in Chicago with singer-songwriter Phoebe Bridgers.
#661 Alice Cooper, Opinions on Chance the Rapper & Deafheaven
Jul 27 2018
Alice Cooper invented shock-rock in the 1970s, sparking controversy with his ghoulishly theatrical live shows and hard rock hits like "School's Out" and "I'm Eighteen." Alice Cooper joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a career-spanning conversation. They'll also review new music from Chance the Rapper and Deafheaven.
#660 PJ Morton & Opinions on Drake
Jul 20 2018
PJ Morton is an indie soul artist that just happens to be in Maroon 5, one of the biggest pop groups in the country. But his solo sound is light years away from Top 40 R&B, blending his New Orleans gospel roots with strains of Stevie Wonder. PJ joins Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and performance. Plus, Jim and Greg discuss the cultural zeitgeist which is rapper Drake's latest album.
#659 Buried Treasures & MSNBC's Ari Melber
Jul 13 2018
It's time yet again for Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to open their treasure chests and reveal relatively unknown new albums YOU need to hear! They'll also talk to the host of MSNBC's The Beat, Ari Melber, about his love for rap music and how he integrates it into his political coverage.
#658 Sound Opinions LIVE
Jul 06 2018
So many talented musicians perform on Sound Opinions, but we don't always have time to air every song. Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite never-before-heard live performances from artists like Beach Slang and Arcade Fire. Plus, they unearth even more favorite performances from our archive.
#657 Best Albums of 2018 So Far
Jun 29 2018
The year is half over and we think it's time to share some of our favorite albums of 2018 so far! Find out what albums hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot have at the top of their lists, plus hear from some listeners.
#656 Hinds & Opinions on Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Parquet Courts & More
Jun 22 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with two members of the Spanish women rock band Hinds about their unique take on punk rock and how they've reached fans in America and the U.K. Also, with an influx of new releases, it’s time for a review round-up! Jim and Greg give their opinions on new albums from Beyoncé and Jay-Z, Neko Case and Parquet Courts.
#655 Margo Price & Anthony Bourdain
Jun 15 2018
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are joined by country singer-songwriter Margo Price. Price is signed to Jack White's Third Man Records, and her sound is a blend of outlaw country and roots music. A natural born storyteller, Price joined the hosts for an interview and performance. Plus, Jim and Greg revisit their interview with world traveler and chef Anthony Bourdain, who we lost recently. He was 61.
#654 Joni Mitchell's Blue
Jun 08 2018
Almost 50 years ago, singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell released what became her signature album, Blue. The record is full of complex lyrics, gorgeous guitar and deeply personal themes. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot do a classic album dissection of Blue, sharing the context of the record, exploring its lasting impact and looking in depth at its impressive track list.
#653 Anxious Anthems & Leon Bridges
Jun 01 2018
Forget “Keep Calm and Carry On.” This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot play their favorite Anxious Anthems. Then, they chat with some listeners to hear what songs make them nervous. Plus, the hosts sit down with soul singer Leon Bridges. Leon's latest album, Good Thing, marks his transition into an adventurous new sound. Support Sound Opinions: soundopinions.org/support
#652 Give the Drummer Some
May 25 2018
What role do drums play in Rock? Should that be keeping the beat or leading from the front? Who are some of the greatest drummers in rock music? The beat goes on as Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot focus on the contributions of drummers to rock music with drummer Joe Wong. Wong also hosts a podcast on drummers called The Trap Set. Support Sound Opinions: soundopinions.org/support
#651 John Prine, Opinions on Courtney Barnett & Scott Hutchison
May 18 2018
For the last 50 years, John Prine has garnered a multi-generational fan base through his nuanced storytelling as a songwriter and performer. The balance of humor, plain language and reality in his music is what makes him stand out in the genres of folk, country and beyond. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk to Prine about starting his own independent label, working with Phil Spector and his writing process. Plus, the hosts review the latest album from Courtney Barnett and pay tribute to the l...more
#650 Buried Treasures & Guest Desert Island Jukebox
May 11 2018
Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot dive into their piles and piles of new music to bring you their latest favorites. Plus, some of our favorite musicians tell us about the songs they'd want with them if they were stranded on a desert island. Support Sound Opinions: soundopinions.org/support
#649 Slayer, Opinions on Janelle Monáe & Liz Phair
May 04 2018
With Slayer's farewell tour approaching, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot revisit their interview with two members of the iconic thrash metal band - drummer Dave Lombardo and guitarist Kerry King. They discuss their signature breakneck song pace, favorite moments in the group and working with hip hop producer Rick Rubin. They'll also review the new album from Janelle Monáe and review Liz Phair's Exile in Guyville for its 25th anniversary.
#648 Songs About Horses, Opinions on Lucy Dacus & Torres
Apr 27 2018
And they're off! In honor of the Kentucky Derby, it seemed like the perfect time to explore a relatively common theme in music - horses. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot discuss why these majestic animals cross genres from soul to rock and roll. They’ll also share some of their favorite tracks about stallions, mares, ponies and more. Plus, they'll review the sophomore album from indie singer-songwriter Lucy Dacus and artist Torres shares what song got her Hooked on Sonics.
#647 Jason Isbell & Opinions on Cardi B
Apr 20 2018
For country singer/songwriter Jason Isbell's latest record, "The Nashville Sound," he wrote about his role as a father and an artist in today's America. It ended up being his most political album yet, addressing issues like white privilege and working class frustrations. Jason joins Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to talk about songwriting, ethics, sobriety, and performs a special acoustic set. Plus, the hosts review the debut studio album from rap sensation Cardi B.
#646 The Legend of Captain Beefheart, Opinions on Kacey Musgraves & Sarah Shook
Apr 13 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore the legend of Captain Beefheart, a musician with a larger-than-life personality who blurred the lines of music, art and noise. Also, they talk with longtime Captain Beefheart collaborator Gary Lucas and share their thoughts on why Beefheart's music, however difficult, is of value. Plus, the hosts review new albums from country artists Kacey Musgraves and Sarah Shook.
#645 The Regrettes, Buried Treasures & Frank Turner
Apr 06 2018
The Regrettes are a young band that blends 1960s girl group sensibilities with the edge of Bikini Kill. Their debut album, Feel Your Feelings, Fool! was a Best of 2017 pick for both Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot. The Regrettes joined Greg for a performance and conversation. Also, Jim and Greg share more of their buried treasures- bands flying under the radar that you need to hear! Plus, Frank Turner on the song that got him Hooked on Sonics.
#644 Exile on Main St.
Mar 30 2018
Though originally panned by many critics, the Rolling Stones' 1972 album Exile on Main St. is now considered a masterpiece. Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot serve up a classic album dissection for the deeply influential recording.
#643 SXSW 2018
Mar 23 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot make their annual pilgrimage to the South By Southwest music conference in Austin, Texas. They'll report on some of their new favorite bands that music lovers need to hear.
#642 Songs About the Music Industry & Antibalas
Mar 16 2018
What happens when artists take a look inward at the music business? Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot play the best Songs About the Music Industry. Then, they sit down with the dynamic Antibalas!
#641 Buried Treasures & A Giant Dog
Mar 09 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot dig up some buried treasures - albums that aren't yet in the mainstream but that deserve some more attention. Plus, cult rock outfit A Giant Dog join them for an interview and performance.
#640 Best Movie Soundtracks Pt. 2 & Opinions on the Black Panther Soundtrack
Mar 02 2018
A film's soundtrack can be as memorable as its visuals. So as this awards season winds down, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot pick some of their favorite film soundtracks. Plus, they'll review the soundtrack to the movie Black Panther, and we hear about what got latin electronic artist Helado Negro into music.
#639 Don Was, Opinions on Superchunk & Dessa
Feb 23 2018
Don Was is a bassist in the band Was (Not Was), a successful music producer for artists like The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan, and the president of legendary jazz label Blue Note Records. This week, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot pick the brain of the multi-talented Don Was about his influences, what he looks for in an artist and what he loves about music. Plus, Jim and Greg review new albums from indie rock band Superchunk and rapper Dessa.
#638 Sir the Baptist & Opinions on MGMT
Feb 16 2018
In many ways, Chicago artist and producer Sir the Baptist is a chaplain in the R&B scene. He creates hip hop infused music that bridges the gap between his gospel roots and the world around him. Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk to Sir about making music with a message, plus he performs in studio with a 10-piece band. Jim and Greg will also review the new album from MGMT.
#637 "I Want You Back" Songs for Valentine's Day & Opinions on Justin Timberlake
Feb 09 2018
When candy, flowers, and love notes fail to woo your sweetie back, there's only one thing left to do: stake out under a window, hold up that boom box and blast an “I Want You Back” song. This Valentine’s Day, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot present their favorite pleading songs. Plus, they'll review the new album from Justin Timberlake.
#636 Cover Songs, Opinions on First Aid Kit & Mark E. Smith
Feb 02 2018
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk to author Ray Padgett about his book Cover Me: The Stories Behind the Greatest Cover Songs of All Time. They discuss the roots of the term "cover" and dig into the surprising stories behind some of rock's most notable examples, from Elvis's rendition of "Hound Dog" to the Feelies doing the Rolling Stones. Plus, Jim and Greg share a few of their favorite cover songs. Plus, a review of Swedish folk duo First Aid Kit and a remembrance of Mark E. Smith of The Fa...more
#635 Vic Mensa, Opinions on tUnE-yArDs, Dolores O'Riordan & Hugh Masekela
Jan 26 2018
On his debut record, The Autobiography, Vic Mensa raps about his life growing up on the South Side of Chicago. With a confessional tone, he explores topics like community, violence, drugs, and racism. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with Mensa about his influences, his struggles and the experience of growing up “five blocks from the projects and five blocks from Obama’s house." Plus, they review the latest album from tUnE-yArDs and Jim pays tribute to the late Dolores O'Riordan of The Cran...more
#634 New Wave & Alison Moyet
Jan 19 2018
Jim and Greg talk to Lori Majewski about her book "Mad World: An Oral History of New Wave Artists and the Songs That Defined the 1980s", co-written with Jonathan Bernstein. In it, the authors reveal why New Wave caught on so strongly with pop fans and the media, especially post-punk in the U.K. Plus, an interview with Alison Moyet, an English singer-songwriter that came up in the New Wave scene, and is still making waves musically.
#633 Iron & Wine and Opinions on Jeff Rosenstock
Jan 12 2018
Sam Beam has been releasing his signature indie folk records under the moniker Iron & Wine for over 15 years. His 2017 effort, Beast Epic, returns to his stripped down, acoustic roots. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot interview Sam Beam at the Goose Island Barrelhouse and they talk about his sound, collaborations and fatherhood. He also delivers a performance in front of a live audience. Plus, a review of the new album by punk rocker Jeff Rosenstock.
#632 Alex Cox & Opinions on N.E.R.D.
Jan 05 2018
Few filmmakers have embodied the punk aesthetic like Alex Cox. He joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to discuss the classic LA punk soundtrack to Repo Man, the making of the Sex Pistols biopic Sid and Nancy, and his fruitful collaborations with Joe Strummer. Plus, a review of the new album from Pharrell Williams's side project N.E.R.D.
#631 Mixtapes 2017 & Musical In Memoriam
Dec 29 2017
As 2017 comes to a close, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot present DJ sets full of some of their favorite songs of the year. They'll also pay tribute to some of the musicians who died in 2017.
#630 Bob Ezrin & Amber Mark
Dec 22 2017
Bob Ezrin, the "producer's producer," has been behind the boards for many blockbuster epic albums over the years. He shares stories with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot about working on classic albums by Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, Kiss, and Peter Gabriel. Plus, up-and-coming R&B singer Amber Mark shares the song that got her Hooked on Sonics.
#629 The Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular 2017
Dec 15 2017
It's time again for the annual Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular! Each year, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are joined by holiday music collector Andy Cirzan who shares a mix of rare Christmas records scavenged from dusty record bins around the world.
#628 Rock Criticism with Jonathan Lethem, Mavis Staples & Björk
Dec 08 2017
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot indulge this week in a deep look at their own profession: rock criticism. They're joined by novelist Jonathan Lethem, co-editor of a new anthology of rock criticism, who makes the case for music journalism as great American writing. Plus, they look at the life and career of legendary critic Lester Bangs and review new albums from Chicago gospel legend Mavis Staples and Icelandic multimedia artist Björk.
#627 The Best Albums of 2017
Dec 01 2017
2017 has been full of highly anticipated releases and unexpected gems from relatively unknown artists. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot reveal their lists of the Best Albums of 2017.
#626 Songs of Thanks, the Bass VI & Rise Against's Tim McIlrath
Nov 24 2017
Thanksgiving is a time to gather around the dinner table with family and friends to reflect on the past year and give thanks. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite songs that say "thank you." Plus, the story of the twangy guitar-bass hybrid instrument known as the Bass VI, and Rise Against frontman Tim McIlrath shares the song that got him Hooked on Sonics.
#625 Al Green's The Belle Album & Opinions on Taylor Swift
Nov 17 2017
Al Green sang some of the most acclaimed soul records of the 1970s. So when he decided to leave it all behind for the church, many questioned why. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot discuss Al Green's life and his pivotal transitional record, The Belle Album, with biographer Jimmy McDonough. Plus, a review of new music from Taylor Swift.
#624 Ted Leo & Opinions on Shamir
Nov 10 2017
After a seven year gap, veteran rocker Ted Leo has expanded his sonic palette with his latest solo record, The Hanged Man. Written in the wake of emotional and financial turmoil, the album is perhaps his most personal work to date. Ted Leo joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot in front of an audience at the Goose Island Tap Room for an interview and intimate solo performance. Plus, a review of the new album from eclectic Las Vegas singer-songwriter Shamir.
#623 Buried Treasures & Ron Gallo
Nov 03 2017
Each season, there's a few highly anticipated albums with a ton of buzz behind them. Then there are other deserving records that won't get that kind of attention. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their latest batch of Buried Treasures: hidden musical gems that everyone ought to hear. Plus, a conversation and live performance from Philadelphia indie rocker Ron Gallo.
#622 Musical Costumes, Fats Domino & Gord Downie
Oct 27 2017
Halloween is all about being someone else for a night – and musicians like to put on costumes, too. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite examples of artists temporarily donning a musical costume and performing in a different style under a fake name. Plus, they pay tribute to rock 'n' roll founder Fats Domino. And Toronto Star critic Ben Rayner remembers Gord Downie of the Tragically Hip.
#621 Julie Klausner, Beck, Courtney Barnett & Kurt Vile
Oct 20 2017
As creator, writer, and star of the critically acclaimed TV comedy Difficult People, Julie Klausner not only crafts the show's jokes but also guides its soundtrack. This week, she joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a hilarious discussion of the show's music and her own musical tastes, and she even attempts to win them over to musical theatre. Plus, Jim and Greg review a new album from Beck and a collaboration between Courtney Barnett and Kurt Vile.
#620 Jamila Woods, St. Vincent & Judy Collins
Oct 13 2017
On her debut album HEAVN, Jamila Woods contrasts weighty issues like police violence and the invisibility of black women with a breezy musical touch. The Chicago-based poet, singer, and songwriter joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for an interview and performance. Plus, a review of the new album from St. Vincent, and folk legend Judy Collins tells us about the song that got her Hooked on Sonics.
#619 Remembering Tom Petty
Oct 06 2017
Tom Petty was a master of the perfect three-chord pop song and an icon of American music. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot pay tribute to the late Florida rocker. They discuss Petty's tremendous songwriting gifts and revisit their 2003 interview with him on Sound Opinions.
#618 Mavis Staples, Pt. 2, Protomartyr & Charles Bradley
Sep 29 2017
This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with gospel and soul legend Mavis Staples. She speaks about her role on the front line of the Civil Rights Movement as part of the Staple Singers and recounts a harrowing story of touring through the Jim Crow South. Plus, a review of the latest from Protomartyr, and a tribute to the late soul singer Charles Bradley.
#617 Live on Sound Opinions & Grant Hart of Hüsker Dü
Sep 22 2017
So many talented musicians perform on Sound Opinions, but we don't always have time to air every song. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite never-before-heard live performances from guests like Courtney Barnett, Drive-By Truckers, and more. Plus, a tribute to Grant Hart of Hüsker Dü.
#616 Late Bloomers, Filthy Friends & Little Dragon
Sep 15 2017
Some say that making music is a young person's game, but several artists beg to differ. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite "late blooming" musicians - artists that didn't achieve success or even start music until later in life. Plus, the debut album from rock supergroup Filthy Friends, and the song that got Yukimi Nagano of Little Dragon Hooked on Sonics.
#615 The Artist vs. the Art, The National, Queens of the Stone Age & Walter Becker
Sep 08 2017
Should we hold up a musician's output to a moral standard? Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk about whether art can be evaluated separately from the artist's ethics. Plus, reviews of new releases by The National and Queens of the Stone Age, and tributes to Walter Becker of Steely Dan, and Holger Czukay of the influential "Krautrock" group Can.
#614 Back-to-School Songs & Opinions on LCD Soundystem and Van Hunt
Sep 01 2017
The beginning of September means students return to the classroom. Whether you're excited to be back to school or the very thought inspires dread and anxiety, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot have put together a playlist to ease back to the grind. Plus, they review albums by LCD Soundsystem and Van Hunt.
#613 Melvins & Billy Bragg on Skiffle
Aug 25 2017
The Melvins were an inspiration to the '90s alternative explosion, but the band's unclassifiable sound and uncommercial stance set them apart. In a frank discussion with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot, the Melvins reflect on their career and bust myths about the grunge scene. Plus, singer-songwriter Billy Bragg makes the case for the 1950s skiffle craze as the origin of guitar rock and punk sensibilities in the UK.
#612 One-Person Bands & Opinions on Randy Newman & Downtown Boys
Aug 18 2017
Certain artists are perfectionists at heart, and if you want something done right, do it yourself. This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite One-Person Bands – artists who have recorded albums playing all the instruments themselves. Plus, reviews of the latest from legendary songwriter Randy Newman and Rhode Island punk band Downtown Boys.
#611 Steve Earle, Glen Campbell & Opinions on Vic Mensa
Aug 11 2017
Over his decades long career, Steve Earle has been many things - songwriter, novelist, actor, activist. But for his latest record, So You Wannabe An Outlaw, he went back to the foundation he started from: outlaw country. Steve joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to talk about about those early influences and how he sees his duty as a songwriter. Plus, he performs a special solo set in front of a live audience at the Goose Island Tap Room in Chicago. Plus, a review of the debut album from Chic...more
#610 Buried Treasures & the Wah-Wah Pedal
Aug 04 2017
If you're looking for something new to round out your summer playlist, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot have you covered. They'll dig out some buried treasures - albums not yet in the mainstream but deserve some more attention. Plus, an in-depth look at the history of the wah-wah pedal.
#609 Penelope Spheeris & Opinions on Arcade Fire
Jul 28 2017
Penelope Spheeris has directed some of the most influential movies about music of all time, from Wayne's World to all three installments of The Decline of Western Civilization films. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with Penelope about the 25th anniversary of Wayne's World, her fascinating path as a director, and the legacy of her films. Plus, a review of the new album from Arcade Fire.
#608 Fantasy Songs, Slowdive & Opinions on Public Enemy
Jul 21 2017
The fantasy powerhouse Game of Thrones is returning for its penultimate season. With dragons, knights, and magic on their minds, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot play their favorite songs about fantasy worlds. Plus, a review of the latest from hip-hop stalwarts Public Enemy, and Neil Halstead of Slowdive shares the song that got him Hooked on Sonics.
#607 1977 – The Year Punk Broke (Pt. 2) & She-Devils
Jul 14 2017
In part two of our series 1977: The Year Punk Broke, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot look at the punk movement stateside with music writer Ira Robbins. They discuss how The Ramones, Talking Heads, and the rest of the CBGB scene inspired generations of artists. Plus, an interview and live performance from Montreal electronic duo She-Devils.
#606 1977 – The Year Punk Broke (Pt. 1), Opinions on Fleet Foxes, and Jody Stephens
Jul 07 2017
In part one of our two-part series on the historic year 1977, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore the punk explosion in the UK with music writer Jon Savage. They discuss important British bands like The Buzzcocks, The Sex Pistols and The Clash and what made them so influential. Plus, they'll review the new record from indie folk band Fleet Foxes, and Big Star's Jody Stephens shares the song that got him Hooked on Sonics.
#605 World Tour – New Zealand & Opinions on Lorde
Jun 30 2017
The Sound Opinions World Tour rolls along, making its next stop in beautiful New Zealand. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot take a virtual trip to the other side of the world to explore the best of kiwi music, focusing on the influential jangly pop movement known as the Dunedin Sound. Plus, they review the sophomore album from New Zealand's biggest pop star, Lorde.
#604 Best Albums of 2017...So Far
Jun 23 2017
There are still six months of 2017 left, but there are already lots of contenders for album of the year. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorites of the year...so far. Plus, we hear picks from Sound Opinions listeners.
#603 Musical Road Trip & Opinions on Chuck Berry
Jun 16 2017
Summer is upon us so that means one thing: road trip! Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot take a virtual cross-country drive playing their favorite songs about American cities, states, and regions from coast-to-coast. Plus, they review the posthumous album from rock and roll legend Chuck Berry.
#602 Tom Petty and the Heartbreaker's Benmont Tench, Sgt. Pepper's 50th Anniversary & Opinions on Benjamin Booker
Jun 09 2017
Keyboard player Benmont Tench was instrumental in the formation of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers in 1976. He's also had a fruitful career as a consummate sideman and session musician, working with artists like Bob Dylan, Stevie Nicks, U2, Johnny Cash, and more. Tench joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for some lively conversation about his successful career in music. Plus, a reappraisal of The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band as it turns 50, and a review of the new album from s...more
#601 Jack White & The History of the Rickenbacker 12-String
Jun 02 2017
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot revisit their conversation with the hardest working man in rock, Jack White, recorded at Third Man Records in Nashville. Plus, an exploration into the history of the Rickenbacker 12-string guitar in rock.
#600 Jenny Hval & Opinions on Harry Styles and Sir the Baptist
May 26 2017
Norwegian singer-songwriter and performance artist Jenny Hval has released six albums of ethereal and challenging music. On her latest record, she explores the links between vampirism and the female body. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot speak with Jenny Hval about her career and process. Plus, reviews of the new albums from Harry Styles and Sir the Baptist.
#599 Damon Krukowski & "The New Analog", Opinions on Low Cut Connie, and Lydia Loveless
May 19 2017
In a world becoming increasingly digital, Galaxie 500 co-founder and author Damon Krukowski says we need to hang on to aspects of analog media. Damon joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to talk about the value of noise, liner notes, and his book The New Analog. Plus, a review of the latest from barroom rockers Low Cut Connie, and Lydia Loveless shares the song that got her Hooked on Sonics.
#598 Fictional Bands, "Convoy" & Opinions on Gorillaz
May 12 2017
Some bands are are born, and some are just made up. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite fictional bands from movies, TV, and more. Plus, a review of the new album from cartoon creation Gorillaz, and the strange story of C.W. McCall's trucker hit "Convoy."
#597 The Velvet Underground & Nico
May 05 2017
The 1967 debut from The Velvet Underground didn't sell many records, but arguably no album in the past half century has had a greater influence on rock music. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot offer a Classic Album Dissection of The Velvet Underground & Nico in celebration of the art-rock classic's fiftieth anniversary.
#596 Guitar Riffs & Opinions on The Obsessed
Apr 28 2017
Perhaps the most essential element of rock ‘n’ roll is a great guitar riff. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite guitar licks of all time. Plus, they review the latest from long-running metal band The Obsessed and pay tribute to the late director Jonathan Demme.
#595 Drive-By Truckers & Opinions on Kendrick Lamar & Resistance Radio
Apr 21 2017
Drive-By Truckers have tackled politics and social issues in their music for decades, but never more strongly than on their latest album, American Band. Members Mike Cooley and Patterson Hood join Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to talk about the record and perform acoustically in front of an audience. Plus, reviews of the new record from rapper Kendrick Lamar and the Danger Mouse-produced album inspired by The Man in the High Castle.
#594 Spring Record Review Round-Up & Honeyblood
Apr 14 2017
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot give their take on several of the biggest new records, from Spoon to Mastodon, in this Review Roundup. Plus, a conversation with Scottish duo Honeyblood.
#593 Mavis Staples
Apr 07 2017
As a member of her family group The Staple Singers and as a solo artist, Mavis Staples has used her huge voice to power the Civil Rights Movement and inspire generations. The gospel and soul legend joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for an intimate discussion of her life and career.
#592 SXSW 2017
Mar 31 2017
Every spring, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot head to Austin, Texas for the sprawling SXSW Music Conference. This week, they report back on their favorite musical discoveries of the festival. Plus, they chat with Nirvana bassist Krist Novoselic.
#591 Remembering Chuck Berry
Mar 24 2017
Chuck Berry, one of the architects of rock 'n' roll, has died at age 90. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot reflect on the life, music, and enduring legacy of the legendary guitarist and singer.
#590 Desert Island Jukebox & Sunflower Bean
Mar 17 2017
The proverbial Desert Island Jukebox is filled with songs that hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot would want with them if they were marooned on a remote isle. This week, Jim and Greg hand quarters out to guests like Mary J. Blige, Sleater-Kinney, and Rush to select the tracks they can't live without. Plus, an interview and performance from the Brooklyn rock band Sunflower Bean.
#589 One and Done & Opinions on Thundercat
Mar 10 2017
Some artists deliver a fantastic debut album, yet never make another LP again. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot select some of their favorite “one and done” bands and explore what makes these one-album wonders so great. Plus, a review of the new record from multi-genre bassist Thundercat.
#588 Gene Chandler & Opinions on The Feelies
Mar 03 2017
From 1962 to 1970, Chicago soul singer Gene Chandler recorded nineteen top forty hits, but he'll forever be known as the "Duke of Earl." As a young artist, he performed across the country, including the Jim Crow South, later transitioning from performer to award-winning producer. Gene Chandler joins hosts Greg Kot and Jim DeRogatis for a conversation. Plus, a review of the new album by New Jersey rock band The Feelies.
#587 Buried Treasures & Clyde Stubblefield
Feb 24 2017
Many great albums are released each year, but only a handful get the attention they deserve. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some recent Buried Treasures – the best albums that flew under the radar. Plus, they give the drummer some with a tribute to Clyde Stubblefield, James Brown's legendary sideman. And Jason Narducy joins us for a new segment called Hooked on Sonics.
#586 The Gotobeds & Opinions on Lupe Fiasco
Feb 17 2017
The Gotobeds are known for outrageous stage antics and a biting sense of humor. But behind that is a lyrical sophistication and tight musicianship. The Pittsburgh post-punk band joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a raucous performance in the studio. Plus, a review of the new album from Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco.
#585 First Impressions & Opinions on Priests
Feb 10 2017
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, love is in the air. And what's more romantic than that cute moment of love at first sight? Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorite tracks about first impressions. Plus, they review the new album from DC punk band Priests and pay tribute to the influential composer David Axelrod.
#584 Shirley Collins & Opinions on Japandroids & Ty Segall
Feb 03 2017
Of all the artists in the English folk revival, Shirley Collins was the most devoted to traditional song. After a nearly 40 year recording hiatus, she's finally released a new album. Shirley Collins joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to discuss her career and her experiences traveling through America to collect field recordings with Alan Lomax. Plus, reviews of the new albums by Japandroids and Ty Segall.
#583 Krautrock & Remembering Maggie Roche
Jan 27 2017
In the 1970s, German art-rockers took psychedelia and added hypnotic drumbeats and innovative synthesizer sounds to create a style known as Krautrock. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot dissect the Krautrock genre and its influential bands like Kraftwerk, Can, and Faust. Plus, they remember the late Maggie Roche of The Roches.
#582 The Album Leaf & Opinions on The xx and The Flaming Lips
Jan 20 2017
The Album Leaf combines digital and organic instruments to make a unique sound. Bandleader Jimmy LaValle joins Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to talk about the importance of giving electronic music a live experience and how the Album Leaf grew from a side project into a full time gig. Plus, reviews of the new albums from the Flaming Lips and the xx.
#581 All Apologies & Opinions on Run the Jewels
Jan 13 2017
It's good to start a new year with a clean slate – and that can mean apologizing to those you've wronged. In that contrite spirit, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite songs that say "sorry." Plus, a review of the new album from hip-hop duo Run the Jewels.
#580 Esperanza Spalding & David Bowie, One Year Later
Jan 06 2017
Esperanza Spalding is a singer/songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist, a librettist, a Grammy winner, and much more. She joins Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a candid conversation about exploding genres and creating her theatrical new record. Plus, the music and legacy of David Bowie, one year after his death.
#579 Mixtapes 2016 & Musical In Memoriam
Dec 30 2016
Sound Opinions closes out 2016 with the year in song. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot present a mixtape of tracks that tell the story of the the past year. And we remember some of the many musicians who passed away in 2016.
#578 The Mekons & Opinions on Dawn Richard
Dec 23 2016
Formed in 1977 in the original British punk wave, The Mekons are still going strong nearly four decades later. The band joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot in the studio to demonstrate its eclectic blend of country, folk, and punk rock. Plus, a review of the new album from R&B singer Dawn Richard.
#577 The Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular 2016
Dec 16 2016
It's time for the 2016 Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular! Each year, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are joined by holiday music collector Andy Cirzan who shares a mix of rare Christmas records scavenged from dusty record bins around the world.
#576 The Best Albums of 2016
Dec 09 2016
If you're a music fanatic, the end of the year means one thing: best of lists! Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot reveal their favorite albums of the year. And Sound Opinions listeners weigh-in with their favorites of 2016.
#575 Hero Worship
Dec 02 2016
Artists are also music fans like the rest of us, often paying tribute to the musicians who inspired them. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite examples of Hero Worship in music – songs that name-check great artists from the history of rock and roll. Plus, the Rolling Stones pay tribute to their own blues heroes on a new album.
#574 Jon Brion & Opinions on Emeli Sandé
Nov 25 2016
Studio wizard Jon Brion has composed scores for films by P.T. Anderson and Michel Gondry and produced for artists from Fiona Apple to Kanye West. The multi-instrumentalist also has grown a following for his virtuosic live performances. Jon Brion speaks with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot about the art of songcraft. Plus, a review of the latest from Scottish R&B singer Emeli Sandé.
#573 Turkey Pardons & Remembering Leonard Cohen
Nov 18 2016
Every year, a turkey is saved from its Thanksgiving dinner fate by a presidential pardon. In that gracious spirit, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot give their own Turkey Pardons. They share their picks of lousy artists who still had one redeemable musical moment. Plus, they pay tribute to the great singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen.
#572 World Tour – Canada & Opinions on Alejandro Escovedo.
Nov 11 2016
Many Americans are thinking a lot about Canada these days. So hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot take the Sound Opinions World Tour to Canada explore the music of our neighbor to the north. And we play our favorite performances by Canadian artists from the Sound Opinions archives. Plus, a review of the latest from Texan singer-songwriter Alejandro Escovedo.
#571 Marvin Gaye's *What's Going On*
Nov 04 2016
In 1971, Marvin Gaye made a career left turn with the album What's Going On, adopting a socially conscious sound that addressed war, racism, and drugs. 45 years later, What's Going On remains as relevant as ever. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot present a Classic Album Dissection of the iconic record. Then, they review a contemporary protest album from Common.
#570 The Handsome Family & Opinions on Lady Gaga
Oct 28 2016
The Handsome Family gained wider notoriety for providing the theme to HBO's True Detective. But the duo's dark, literate songwriting has been acclaimed by critics for decades. Rennie and Brett Sparks of The Handsome Family join hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and performance. Plus, a review of the new album from pop superstar Lady Gaga.
#569 Songs That Give You the Creeps & Opinions on Leonard Cohen
Oct 21 2016
The spookiest time of the year is upon us. To celebrate Halloween, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot turn the show over to listeners who share the songs that tingle their spines the most. Plus, they share their thoughts on Bob Dylan's Nobel Prize and review the latest from singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen.
#568 Beach Slang & Opinions on Drive-By Truckers
Oct 14 2016
Beach Slang has wowed critics and audiences alike with its loud, energy filled live performances and unabashedly earnest lyrics. But in front of a live audience at the Goose Island Tap Room, Beach Slang songwriter James Alex strips away the volume, but not the heart, for an intimate acoustic performance and conversation with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot. Plus, the new record by Southern rockers Drive-By Truckers, and the story behind a forgotten garage classic.
#567 Bob Mehr on The Replacements & Opinions on Solange
Oct 07 2016
The Replacements never had a hit song, but few bands have inspired such a deep personal connection with their fans. Bob Mehr, author of the new biography Trouble Boys, speaks with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot about the heartbreaking story and enduring legacy of the Minneapolis band. Plus, a review of the new album from Solange and a look at the sample driving Drake's "Hotline Bling."
#566 Fall Review Roundup & Buckwheat Zydeco
Sep 30 2016
September is bursting with major new album releases. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot give their take on several of the biggest new records, from Bon Iver to M.I.A. to Against Me!, in this Review Roundup. Plus, they report on Chance the Rapper's music festival and pay tribute to Buckwheat Zydeco.
#565 Herb Alpert & Opinions on Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds
Sep 23 2016
Trumpeter Herb Alpert has had a remarkable, multifaceted career. In addition to scoring his own hits with the Tijuana Brass in the '60s, he cofounded A&M Records, signing a diverse roster of artists ranging from The Carpenters to Janet Jackson. Herb Alpert joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation. Plus, a review of the new album from legendary band Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds.
#564 Buried Treasures & Alex Ross
Sep 16 2016
Many great albums are released each year, but only a handful get the attention they deserve. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their Buried Treasures of 2016: the best albums that flew under the radar. Plus, they speak with critic Alex Ross about the use of music as a weapon.
#563 Mudhoney & Opinions on Wilco
Sep 09 2016
Mudhoney was at the forefront of Seattle's exploding music scene in the '80s and '90s, paving the way for grunge with its distorted, chaotic sound. Though the group never received the world-wide attention of its peers Nirvana, Mudhoney has achieved a cult-like longevity. Mudhoney talks with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot and performs in front of a hometown Seattle audience. Plus, the new album from Chicago band Wilco, and the psychedelic sample driving a key Beyoncé track.
#562 End of Summer Songs & Opinions on Angel Olsen
Sep 02 2016
With lyrics about sun, surf, and young love, there are plenty of songs that welcome in the summer. But how do you musically say goodbye to warm weather and prepare for the fall? Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot swap their swim trunks for their sweaters and share their favorite End of Summer Songs. Plus, a review of the new album from Asheville-based singer-songwriter Angel Olsen.
#561 The Art of Writing Hit Songs with Mann & Weil & Opinions on Frank Ocean
Aug 26 2016
What goes into writing a hit song? Sound Opinions takes a look at the craft of songwriting, from the Righteous Brothers to Beyoncé. Jim and Greg talk with legendary Brill Building songwriters Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil about their decades long career. Then they talk with Ryan Tedder about penning songs for Adele and Taylor Swift. Plus, a review of the long-awaited new album from Frank Ocean.
#560 World Tour - Brazil & Opinions on Ryley Walker
Aug 19 2016
With all eyes turned toward the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, the Sound Opinions World Tour makes its next stop in Brazil, a country with an unmatched musical influence on the globe. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot explore the rich musical history of Brazil, including the bossa nova, MPB, and Tropicália phenomena of the 1950s and '60s. Plus, a review of the new album from Chicago fingerpicking virtuoso Ryley Walker.
#559 Courtney Barnett & Opinions on Lydia Loveless
Aug 12 2016
Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett’s 2015 album Sometimes I Sit and Think and Sometimes I Just Sit was a critical success and Sound Opinions favorite. Her conversational songwriting manages to be simultaneously clever and poignant, and her guitar technique combining lead and rhythm parts is nothing short of impressive. All of her skills are on display as Courtney Barnett joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for an interview and intimate solo performance in front of an audience. Plus...more
#558 Ska & Opinions on Jamila Woods
Aug 05 2016
In the late 1950s, Jamaican musicians blended home-grown rhythms with R&B to create ska. The genre's influence quickly spread across the globe, paving the way for the reggae phenomenon. Jim and Greg explore the history of ska from its island origins to its British revival to its most recent punk incarnation. Plus, a review of the debut album from poet and soul singer Jamila Woods.
#557 Tortoise, Post-Rock & Opinions on Michael Kiwanuka
Jul 29 2016
With an eclectic all-instrumental blend of rock, jazz, dub, electronics, and the avant-garde, Tortoise emerged as the leading band of Chicago’s so-called “post-rock” scene in the 1990s. On its seventh album The Catastrophist, the group has introduced a radical new element: vocals. Tortoise joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and performance. Jim and Greg also explore the history and legacy of the post-rock movement. Plus, a tribute to Alan Vega of Suicide and a review of th...more
#556 Moby & Opinions on The Julie Ruin
Jul 22 2016
Moby became the face of techno with the blockbuster success of his 1999 album Play. In his new memoir Porcelain, he explores his origins in the underground rave scene of ‘80s New York up until his mainstream success. Moby joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation. Plus, a review of the new album from post-Riot Grrrl band The Julie Ruin.
#555 Better Campaign Songs & Opinions on The Avalanches
Jul 15 2016
It’s not a political rally without a crowd-pumping and uplifting playlist. But political campaign teams are not always great music tastemakers. NPR’s National Political Correspondent Don Gonyea talks with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot about hearing the same songs over and over on the campaign trail. Then Jim and Greg play campaign managers and make a list of better campaign theme songs. Plus, a review of the long-awaited second album from Australian electronic group The Avalanches.
#554 Savages & Opinions on Maxwell & DJ Shadow
Jul 08 2016
The London-based quartet Savages made a stunning debut with Silence Yourself in 2013 and established a reputation as a formidable live act. On the 2016 followup Adore Life, the brooding post-punk band tackles something new: love songs. Savages joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and live performance. Plus, reviews of the new albums from Maxwell and DJ Shadow.
#553 Best Albums of 2016...So Far
Jul 01 2016
We’re barely halfway through the year and already there’s an overwhelming amount of great new music to enjoy. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their lists of the Best Albums of 2016...So Far. Plus, they discuss the “Stairway to Heaven” plagiarism verdict and pay tribute to Parliament-Funkadelic keyboardist Bernie Worrell.
#552 Bob Mould & Opinions on case/lang/veirs
Jun 24 2016
After his pioneering work in Hüsker Dü and his alternative era success with Sugar, Bob Mould shows no signs of slowing down. The legendary songwriter and guitarist joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a live performance and a conversation. Plus, a review of the new collaboration between Neko Case, k.d. lang, and Laura Veirs.
#551 Anxious Anthems & Opinions on Paul Simon
Jun 17 2016
Nervy guitars and pounding drums can perfectly convey the restless sensation of being on the verge of breaking down. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite Anxious Anthems. Then, they review the new album from venerable songwriter Paul Simon.
#550 Eleanor Friedberger & Opinions on Chance the Rapper
Jun 10 2016
After making her mark in the indie duo The Fiery Furnaces, singer-songwriter Eleanor Friedberger launched a solo career blending her former band’s experimentalism with classic '70s sounds. She joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and live performance. Plus, a review of the new mixtape from Chicago artist Chance the Rapper.
#549 Bob Dylan at 75 – *Blonde on Blonde* to Modern Times
Jun 03 2016
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot conclude their two-part celebration of American icon Bob Dylan as he turns 75. This week, they explore the recording of Blonde on Blonde through his late career renaissance.
#548 Bob Dylan at 75 – From Protest to Plugging In
May 27 2016
Bob Dylan, one of the most iconic American artists of the 20th century, just turned 75 this May. Jim and Greg examine the extraordinary career of the music legend in the first of a two-part series. This week, they explore Dylan's folk days to the moment he went electric.
#547 Riot Grrrl at 25 & Opinions on Radiohead & Drake
May 20 2016
While the Seattle grunge bands had the commercial success, the Pacific Northwest’s Riot Grrrl scene has an equally important legacy. Jim and Greg look back at feminist punk movement 25 years on. Then they review the new albums from Drake and Radiohead.
#546 The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds
May 13 2016
Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys elevated pop music to new artistic heights with the band’s 1966 masterpiece Pet Sounds. With its ingenious orchestrations and earnest lyrics, the album remains an enormous influence to this day. To celebrate its 50th anniversary, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot present a Classic Album Dissection of Pet Sounds.
#545 Seinabo Sey & Opinions on Brian Eno
May 06 2016
Swedish neo-soul singer Seinabo Sey is emerging as a major voice in pop music, blending R&B and African rhythms. She joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and performance. Then they review the new album from pioneering ambient producer Brian Eno.
#544 Remembering Prince & Opinions on Beyoncé
Apr 29 2016
Music icon Prince died on April 21 at the age of 57. As a singer, guitarist, songwriter, and producer, he dominated the pop charts and had an enormous impact on funk, R&B, and rock. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot look back on the life, career, and music of the Minnesota monarch, Prince. Then they review the surprise new album from R&B superstar Beyoncé.
#543 Earth Day, TV Tunes, & Opinions on Parquet Courts
Apr 22 2016
Like all human activity, even rock music has an ecological impact. On this Earth Day, environmentalist Bill McKibben and musician/activist Adam Gardner join Jim and Greg for a discussion about the complicated relationship between music and the environment. Jim and Greg also talk to music supervisor Randall Poster about bringing tunes to the big and small screens.
#542 L.A. Reid & Springsteen's Protest
Apr 15 2016
Producer, songwriter, and record executive L.A. Reid has crafted hits for more than four decades. He joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a candid conversation about the major label system and working with Rihanna, Michael Jackson, Kanye West, and more.
#541 Tax Day & Opinions on PJ Harvey
Apr 08 2016
More like H&R Rock: Nothing improves the irritation of filing taxes like a good soundtrack. As we prepare to give back to Uncle Sam, Jim and Greg carry out an audit of the best songs for Tax Day. Then, they review the new album from veteran British rocker PJ Harvey.
#540 Eleventh Dream Day & Opinions on M83
Apr 01 2016
While never achieving the commercial success of its alt-rock peers like Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins, Eleventh Dream Day has outlasted these bands and remain critical darlings. They join Jim and Greg Kot for a conversation and live performance. Plus, a review of the new album from French electronic band M83.
#539 SXSW 2016 & Opinions on Bob Mould
Mar 25 2016
Jim and Greg are back from their annual music-finding mission to the SXSW Music and Media Conference in Austin, TX. Tune in to find out what bands will make the most noise in 2016. Later, they review a new album from Hüsker Dü leader Bob Mould.
#538 1991 Revisited & Opinions on Iggy Pop
Mar 18 2016
1991 was the year punk broke again! Twenty five years later, Jim and Greg explore what made 1991 so special: Nirvana, N.W.A., Lollapalooza and more. Plus a review of the new collaboration between punk veteran Iggy Pop and Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age.
#537 Rock Around the Clock & Opinions on Kendrick Lamar
Mar 11 2016
Rock Around the Clock: Time to wind up those pocket watches and chronometers. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot take you on a fourth dimensional voyage as they explore their favorite “Songs About Time.” Then they review the surprise album from California rapper Kendrick Lamar.
#536 Reviews Round-Up
Mar 04 2016
As we move slowly toward spring, the music release schedule starts heating up as well. Jim and Greg review a bevy of new albums, including records by TEEN, Mavis Staples, Bonnie Raitt and more. Plus, they examine the current state of the recording studio industry.
#535 Rush & Opinions on Kanye West
Feb 26 2016
Famous for its instrumental virtuosity and heady, sci-fi influenced lyrics, the Canadian prog-rock trio Rush has amassed an obsessive cult following. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson of Rush join Jim and Greg to discuss the band’s remarkable 40-year career. Then they review the latest album from polarizing rapper Kanye West.
#534 Music of the Civil Rights Era
Feb 19 2016
Music played an essential role in uplifting, motivating, and uniting people during the Civil Rights era of the 1950s and '60s. In honor of Black History Month, hosts Jim and Greg explore the powerful music of the Civil Rights Movement, from Mahalia Jackson to Curtis Mayfield and beyond.
#533 Los Lobos
Feb 12 2016
Los Lobos has enjoyed a remarkable career for more than forty years, even retaining the same core lineup from its start as an East Los Angeles wedding band in 1973. Los Lobos joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a special interview and performance in front of a live audience.
#532 Anti-Love Songs for Valentine's Day & Opinions on Lucinda Williams
Feb 05 2016
Despite the gooey romantic marketing, more breakups happen around Valentine’s Day than any other part of the year. For those who get the feeling every February that “Love Stinks,” hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite Anti-Love Songs. Later, they review the new album from Americana songwriter Lucinda Williams.
#531 Patti Smith's Horses & Opinions on Pusha T
Jan 29 2016
Patti Smith's Horses forever changed what punk rock could be, beginning with its striking album cover and unforgettable opening line. The album turned 40 in December, so in celebration, Jim and Greg give Horses the Classic Album Dissection treatment. Later they review the new solo album from Clipse rapper Pusha T.
#530 Shamir & Opinions on Savages
Jan 22 2016
Only a few years into his career, Las Vegas-based singer/songwriter Shamir has already explored house, disco, indie pop, country, and countless other styles. He joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot in the studio for a stripped-down performance and conversation about refusing to be pigeonholed, performing personal songs in front of crowds, and gender identity. Then, a review of the sophomore album from post-punk band Savages.
#529 Remembering David Bowie
Jan 15 2016
Sound Opinions remembers pioneering music icon David Bowie. The pop chameleon died of cancer on January 10, 2016. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot also review the singer's new album Blackstar, which came out on his 69th birthday, only two days prior to his death.
#528 Glyn Johns & Opinions on Coldplay
Jan 08 2016
English producer and engineer Glyn Johns has been behind the board for classic albums by Led Zeppelin, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and the Clash. He joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a candid conversation about being re-worked by Phil Spector, trying to infuse The Eagles with the blues, and more from his storied career. Plus, a review of the latest album from British stadium rockers Coldplay.
#527 Mixtapes 2015 and the Return of the Cassette
Jan 01 2016
Jim and Greg share their favorite songs of the year through their 2015 Mixtapes. Plus, they talk about one of the year's most surprising musical trends: the cassette comeback.
#526 Ten Years of Sound Opinions
Dec 25 2015
This year Sound Opinions reached the milestone of 500 episodes. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot celebrate the accomplishment by reflecting on highlights from the first ten years of the show.
#525 The Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular 2015
Dec 18 2015
Get out those sleigh bells…it's time for the 2015 Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular. As always, Jim and Greg are joined by Christmas record collector Andy Cirzan who will share a mix of yuletide tunes you won‘t hear anywhere else. This year’s theme is rare country, bluegrass, and hillbilly Christmas music. Andy's complete 2015 holiday compilation, The Holiday Hangout at Hillbilly Holler, is available as a free download through the end of the year at christmas.soundopinions.org.
#524 The Best Albums of 2015
Dec 11 2015
With end of the year approaching, it's time to celebrate all the great music we've had the pleasure to hear. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their Best Albums of 2015 and hear nominations from listeners.
#523 Sam Phillips & Sun Studios and Opinions on Adele
Dec 04 2015
From his studio in Memphis, Sun Records founder Sam Phillips was the first to record Elvis Presley, Howlin’ Wolf, Jerry Lee Lewis, and more. Music writer Peter Guralnick joins host Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a discussion about the pioneering rock ‘n’ roll producer. Then Jim and Greg review the new record-setting album from British singer Adele.
#522 History of the Moog & Opinions on Kurt Cobain
Nov 27 2015
The Moog synthesizer is every bit as important to rock history as the Fender Telecaster and the Gibson Les Paul. As the analog synth revival continues in pop music,Jim and Greg examine the history and legacy of the revolutionary instrument. Then they review the new posthumous release from Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain.
#521 The 2015 Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot
Nov 20 2015
Sometimes we look forward to an artist's new release with great expectations, only to be crushed by the result. In honor of Thanksgiving, we present the annual Sound Opinions Turkey Shoot, where Jim and Greg share the biggest musical disappointments of the year. Later they review the new album from Canadian electronic artist Grimes, and Greg drops a quarter in the Desert Island Jukebox.
#520 Remembering Allen Toussaint & Opinions on The Chills
Nov 13 2015
Sound Opinions pays tribute to New Orleans pianist, producer and songwriter Allen Toussaint who died on November 10, 2015. The music legend chatted with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot in the studio in 2013 after the release of his album Songbook. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review a New Zealand import from The Chills.
#519 Low Cut Connie & Opinions on Billy Gibbons
Nov 06 2015
Inspired by the artists of the 1950s, Low Cut Connie has dedicated itself to bringing the upright piano back to rock ‘n’ roll. The band (a favorite of President Obama) joins Jim and Greg for a conversation and performance. Then a review of the debut solo album by ZZ Top guitarist Billy Gibbons.
#518 Grand Slams in Music & Opinions on Protomartyr
Oct 30 2015
As baseball fans turn their attention to the World Series, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are eager to step up to the plate. They share their favorite examples of musical Grand Slams: four knockout albums in a row. Then they review the new album from Detroit post-punk band Protomartyr.
#517 Songs About the Devil & Opinions on Joanna Newsom
Oct 23 2015
With the spooky season creeping in, Jim and Greg are beginning to feel a little diabolical. In honor of Halloween, they share their favorite Songs About the Devil. Then, a more angelic sound from singer/songwriter and harpist Joanna Newsom.
#516 Twin Peaks & Opinions on The Dead Weather
Oct 16 2015
Chicago garage-rock band Twin Peaks formed when its members were still in high school. Now the group is playing big festivals and is poised for stardom. They join hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a special live performance and conversation. Plus a review of the new album from Jack White's band The Dead Weather.
#515 Spooner Oldham & Opinions on Janet Jackson
Oct 09 2015
As a keyboardist in the legendary recording studios of Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Spooner Oldham wrote and played on dozens of classic hits from Aretha Franklin, Percy Sledge, and more. He joins Jim and Greg for a conversation. Then they review the new album from Janet Jackson.
#514 London Calling and Opinions on Keith Richards & Disclosure
Oct 02 2015
London Calling, the double album masterpiece by British punk band The Clash, recently celebrated its 35th anniversary. Jim and Greg pay it tribute with a Classic Album Dissection. Then they review the new albums by electronic duo Disclosure and rock icon Keith Richards.
#513 Alice Cooper
Sep 25 2015
Alice Cooper invented shock-rock in the 1970s, sparking controversy with his ghoulishly theatrical live shows and hard rock hits like "School's Out" and "I'm Eighteen." Alice Cooper joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a career-spanning conversation.
#512 Wire, Blackalicious, & Low
Sep 18 2015
Ever since they formed in 1977, experimental art-punk band Wire has had a tremendous influence on music. And unlike most first wave punks, the group continues to release challenging music into the 21st century. Wire joins Jim and Greg for a special live performance and interview.
#511 Back to School
Sep 11 2015
Time to sharpen those #2 pencils. With classes back in session, it's time for Jim and Greg to present some more of their favorite Back-To-School songs. Plus, we remember the late, great neurologist and writer Oliver Sacks.
#510 Bully and The Weeknd
Sep 04 2015
Led by singer/songwriter Alicia Bognanno, Nashville's Bully draws upon the sound of the '90s alternative era to create blistering two-minute anthems. Bully joins Jim and Greg for a discussion and live performance. Plus, the number one album from The Weeknd.
#509 Ernie Isley
Aug 28 2015
The Isley Brothers have scored hits in six different decades thanks to an ever-evolving sound, stretching from doo-wop to psychedelic funk to disco. Guitarist Ernie Isley joins Jim and Greg for a career spanning discussion.
#508 Rock Doctors Return
Aug 21 2015
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot put on their white coats once again as the Rock Doctors try to save a patient in desperate musical need. This time they attempt to revive a woman bored by rock’s recent formulaic trends.
#507 Buried Treasures & The Birth of Music Piracy
Aug 14 2015
Great records are released every year that, for whatever reason, fly under the radar. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot unearth some of their latest musical Buried Treasures. Plus, we hear the untold story of the Patient Zero of music piracy.
#506 Television and Music
Aug 07 2015
Television has entered its Golden Age and music is playing an essential role. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot examine the evolving use of music in commercials and TV shows from Mad Men to Empire to The Voice.
#505 50 Years of The Grateful Dead
Jul 31 2015
The Grateful Dead has the most devoted following of any rock band in history, but also has its fair share of detractors. Jim and Greg reexamine the legacy of The Grateful Dead as the band celebrates its 50th anniversary. Later, a review of the debut album from Long Beach rapper Vince Staples.
#504 Kate Pierson of the B-52s
Jul 24 2015
Since 1976, The B-52’s have combined a zany punk attitude with avant-garde sensibilities. Singer Kate Pierson joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation about the band’s history and her first solo album Guitars and Microphones. Then they review the surprise new album from veteran Chicago band Wilco.
#503 Tame Impala Live and On Record
Jul 17 2015
Led by multi-instrumentalist Kevin Parker, Australian psych-rockers Tame Impala made huge waves in both hemispheres with the release of their album Lonerism in 2012. They join Jim and Greg for a discussion and live performance. Then, Jim and Greg review the band’s new release Currents.
#502 Summer Songs Part 2
Jul 10 2015
The hot sun is beating down and we’re busy waxing our surfboards. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share more of their favorite Summer Songs. Plus, they speak with music writer Jessica Hopper about her new anthology of criticism.
#501 Torres and Opinions on Miguel
Jul 03 2015
Torres, the musical project of Georgia native Mackenzie Scott, has shown off her prodigious songwriting abilities in two critically acclaimed and intensely emotional albums. Torres joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and live performance.
#500 Episode 500!
Jun 26 2015
Sound Opinions is celebrating its 500th episode. To mark this milestone, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share highlights from throughout the show’s history and look ahead to the next 500 episodes.
#499 The Life and Music of BB King & Opinions on Richard Thompson
Jun 19 2015
B.B. King, the international ambassador for the blues, passed away in May. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot celebrate the life and music of the great guitarist with a classic album dissection of King’s Live at the Regal. Then they review the latest from British folk-rock guitarist Richard Thompson.
#498 Best of 2015...So Far & Opinions on Donnie Trumpet
Jun 12 2015
The year is only half over, and already there are too many great new records to keep up with. Jim and Greg take a breath and catch you up with the Best of 2015…So Far.
#497 Zola Jesus & Opinions on Florence + The Machine
Jun 05 2015
Electronic artist Zola Jesus uses her powerful operatic voice to create a uniquely dark and cinematic sound. She joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a conversation and live performance.
#496 Scharpling & Wurster and Spring Record Reviews
May 29 2015
Along with the warm weather each year comes record release season, with exciting new albums put out by major artists. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot get you up to speed by offering a review roundup of new releases from Alabama Shakes, Mumford & Sons, Sufjan Stevens, and Van Hunt.
#495 Passion Pit & Opinions on Shamir
May 22 2015
Passion Pit first broke through via MySpace with its danceable electronic sound. But beneath the bright synth-pop are often tortured lyrics about frontman Michael Angelakos’s struggle with manic depression. Angelakos joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a stripped-down performance and frank conversation about his illness. Then, they review the debut record from genre-defying singer Shamir.
#494 Peter Hook and Opinions on Passion Pit
May 15 2015
The legend of Joy Division continues to grow decades after the death of frontman Ian Curtis. Peter Hook, founding bassist for both Joy Division and its successor New Order, joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to set the record straight on the mythology surrounding his influential bands. Later, a review of the new release from indietronica artist Passion Pit.
#493 Against Me! and Opinions on Blur
May 08 2015
After coming out as a trans woman in 2012, lead singer Laura Jane Grace of punk band Against Me! candidly addressed her experience in the critically lauded album Transgender Dysphoria Blues. Against Me! joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for a performance and an honest conversation. Later, they review the new album from Britpop heroes Blur.
#492 Songs About Mom for Mother's Day
May 01 2015
Even the hardest rockers can take a moment to pay tribute to the people most responsible for getting them to where they are: their mothers. To celebrate Mother’s Day, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite tunes inspired by Mom.
#491 The Rock Fan's Guide to Jazz
Apr 24 2015
Jazz is one of America’s greatest cultural contributions. But with more than a century of music to explore, it can be hard for rock listeners to find their way in. Jazz writer John Corbett joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot to offer up the Rock Fan’s Guide to Jazz.
#490 Going Solo & Opinions on Modest Mouse
Apr 17 2015
It’s been 45 years since Paul McCartney broke away from The Beatles to release his first solo album. To mark the occasion, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk about other artists’ efforts toward Going Solo. Then they review the new album from Modest Mouse.
#489 Sleater Kinney and Opinions on Death Cab for Cutie
Apr 10 2015
Riot grrrl pioneers Sleater-Kinney have reunited after a decade-long hiatus to release a blistering new album. They stop by the studio for a performance and a career-spanning interview. Then hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot review the latest from another Northwest band, Death Cab For Cutie.
#488 Hal Blaine and Opinions on Courtney Barnett
Apr 03 2015
Drummer Hal Blaine has played on countless hit records as part of the famed group of studio musicians known as the Wrecking Crew. He speaks with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot about recording with Frank Sinatra, the Beach Boys, Simon & Garfunkel, and more.
#487 SXSW 2015 & Opinions on Kendrick Lamar
Mar 27 2015
Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot are on the ground at the annual SXSW conference in Austin, Texas. They’ll share their favorite musical discoveries of this year’s festival. Then they review the new album from rapper Kendrick Lamar.
#486 Jac Holzman on Elektra Records and Opinions on Cannibal Ox
Mar 20 2015
As Elektra records prepares to celebrate its 65th anniversary, Jim and Greg speak with label founder Jac Holzman about the birth of the modern label system and its diverse roster of artists including Queen, Love and The Doors. Later they review the long-awaited new album from hip-hop duo Cannibal Ox.
#485 Buried Treasures and Opinions on Madonna
Mar 13 2015
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot unearth their latest Buried Treasures, revealing their favorite records that have gone otherwise unnoticed by the mainstream in recent months. Then they review the new release from pop icon Madonna.
#484 The Rock Doctors Cure Heartache & Opinions on Screaming Females
Mar 06 2015
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot don their stethoscopes for another installment of Rock Doctors. This time they help a newly divorced patient in need of a jolt of musical adrenaline. Then they review the new album from New Jersey punk band Screaming Females.
#483 Nick Mason on Pink Floyd and Opinions on Drake
Feb 27 2015
Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason has been the only constant member of the band throughout its entire history. He speaks with Jim and Greg about his half-century with the pioneering psychedelic band and their highly anticipated reunion. Later, a review of the surprise new mixtape from Drake.
#482 The Sound Opinions World Tour: Cuba & Opinions on Pops Staples
Feb 20 2015
Sound Opinions gasses up the byplane and makes its next stop on the World Tour: Cuba. Later they review the posthumous release from gospel icon Pops Staples.
#481 Run the Jewels and Opinions on Father John Misty
Feb 13 2015
Killer Mike and El-P of Run the Jewels talk about their unique brand of hip-hop and perform songs from one of the most highly acclaimed rap albums of 2014. Then Jim and Greg review the new album from Sub-Pop indie rocker, Father John Misty.
#480 Secret Love for Valentine's Day & Opinions on Bob Dylan.
Feb 06 2015
Sometimes a crush has to stay a secret, even when you’d rather proclaim it loudly in candy heart form. In honor of Valentine’s Day, Jim and Greg offer up a bouquet of their favorite songs of secret love. Then they review the new album of Frank Sinatra covers by Bob Dylan.
#479 The True Adventures of The Rolling Stones & Opinions on Lupe Fiasco and Bjork
Jan 30 2015
Last month marked the 45th anniversary of the Rolling Stones' notorious gig at the Altamont Speedway. Stanley Booth was there to witness it, and he literally wrote the book on it. Plus, we've got new albums from Bjork and Lupe Fiasco.
#478 Strange Bedfellows of Rock & Opinions on Sleater-Kinney.
Jan 23 2015
We are talking musical odd couples this week. Take a listen as Jim and Greg play some of the best examples of rock's "Strange Bedfellows." Then they review the long awaited comeback album from Sleater Kinney.
#477 Mary J. Blige and Opinions on The Decemberists
Jan 16 2015
Mary J. Blige, the "Queen of Hip-Hop Soul," joins Jim and host: Greg for a conversation about her two decades in music, keeping it real on American Idol and hopping across the pond to record her new album The London Sessions. Later, Jim and Greg review the new release from Portland folk-rock group The Decemberists.
#476 Spoon and Opinions on Divine Styler
Jan 09 2015
Veteran indie rockers Spoon return to Sound Opinions for a conversation and live performance of songs off their 8th studio album They Want My Soul.
#475 Mixtapes 2014 & Musical In Memoriam
Jan 02 2015
Jim and Greg present their Mixtapes for 2014 with their favorite songs of the year. And they remember some music greats.
#474 Desert Island Jukebox Special
Dec 26 2014
Jim and Greg hand the Desert Island Jukebox remote over to some of their favorite guests. Hear what music Robert Plant, Kelis and Fred Armisen say they can't live without.
#473 Bloodshot Records & Opinions on D'Angelo.
Dec 19 2014
Jim and Greg look back at 20 years of the groundbreaking alt-country label Bloodshot Records. Plus a review of the long-awaited new album by soul artist D'Angelo.
#472 The Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular 2014
Dec 12 2014
Jim and Greg welcome back their favorite bearer of holiday music cheer, collector Andy Cirzan, to share his latest compilation of eclectic and eccentric seasonal tunes. This year, it's a "Holiday Pop Parade."
#471 The Best Albums of 2014
Dec 05 2014
The end of the year is nigh! Jim and Greg look back at the Best Albums of 2014 and hear some of your picks.
#470 Protomartyr and Opinions on The Preatures
Nov 28 2014
Detroit postpunk band Protomartyr visits the Sound Opinions studio, and Jim and Greg review a new album by the Australian quintet The Preatures.
#469 Robert Plant and Opinions on TV on the Radio
Nov 21 2014
Jim and Greg are joined by the legendary singer of Led Zeppelin, Robert Plant. Then they review the new album from TV on the Radio.
#468 The 2014 Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot
Nov 14 2014
Jim, Greg and the listeners nominate their most disappointing albums of 2014.
#467 Broken Bells
Nov 07 2014
The Shins frontman James Mercer and super-producer Danger Mouse are the celestial rock duo Broken Bells. The pair joins Sound Opinions in Portland, Oregon for a special live performance and conversation.
#466 Pink Floyd's The Wall and Music & Science
Oct 31 2014
Jim and Greg conduct a classic album dissection of Pink Floyd’s epic double concept album The Wall, which celebrates its 35th anniversary in November. But first, they talk music and science with Science Friday host Ira Flatow.
#465 Rock Music & the Occult and Opinions on Stevie Nicks
Oct 24 2014
Jim and Greg celebrate Halloween by dabbling in the dark arts with Peter Bebergal, author of "Season of the Witch: How the Occult Saved Rock and Roll." Later they review a new release from Fleetwood Mac frontwoman Stevie Nicks.
#464 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Bob Seger
Oct 17 2014
While the charts are dominated by old standards like Barbra Streisand and Tony Bennett, there are a ton of exciting, new and lesser-known acts that deserve your attention. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot bring you Buried Treasures.
#463 The Both & Opinions on Weezer
Oct 10 2014
After finding surprising inspiration in Thin Lizzy in a hotel room, veteran singer-songwriters Aimee Mann and Ted Leo joined forces to form The Both. Tune in for a conversation and live performance. Later Rivers Cuomo and Weezer are back with a new album.
#462 Best Guitar Riffs and Opinions on Prince
Oct 03 2014
Perhaps the most essential element of rock 'n' roll: The Guitar Riff. Jim, Greg and some listeners break it down and name their favorites. Then they review a new double album from another guitar legend, Prince.
#461 Fall Record Reviews
Sep 26 2014
Jim and Greg review some of the season's biggest new releases by U2, Interpol, Leonard Cohen and more.
#460 Tweedy
Sep 19 2014
Jeff & Spencer are "Tweedy." The Wilco frontman and his son join us for a special recording in front of a live audience at Chicago's Lincoln Hall.
#459 James Brown Live at the Apollo and Opinions on New Pornographers & FKA Twigs
Sep 12 2014
As film audiences “Get On Up,” hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot look back at James Brown’s classic album Live at the Apollo. Later they review two new albums by Canadian power pop supergroup The New Pornographers and London Trip-Hop singer FKA Twigs.
#458 Work Songs and Opinions on Ty Segall
Sep 05 2014
After a relaxing Labor Day, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot get back into the swing of things by playing the best songs inspired by work. Then they review a new album from the California garage rocker Ty Segall.
#457 Benjamin Booker and Opinions on Robert Plant
Aug 29 2014
New Orleans singer-guitarist Benjamin Booker talks about his blues influences and opening for Jack White and plays songs from his self-titled debut. Later hosts Jim and Greg review the new album from former Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant.
#456 New Wave and Opinions on Sinead O'Connor
Aug 22 2014
Get out your skinny ties and don your best Flock of Seagulls hairdo. Jim and Greg celebrate Duran Duran, A-Ha and the best of 1980's New Wave with "Mad World" author Lori Majewski. Then, Jim and Greg review the latest album from iconic singer-songwriter Sinéad O'Connor.
#455 Rock Operas
Aug 15 2014
Forget about Carmen or Madame Butterfly. Sound Opinions' own divas, Jim and Greg, share their favorite Rock Operas.
#454 Kelis & Opinions on Spoon
Aug 08 2014
Singer Kelis talks music, cooking and "Milkshakes" and performs songs from her aptly titled album Food. Then, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot review the latest from Austin rock band Spoon, and Greg drops a quarter in the Desert Island Jukebox.
#453 Tommy Ramone on Rocket to Russia & Opinions on Tom Petty
Aug 01 2014
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot conduct a Classic Album Dissection of The Ramones' 1977 release Rocket to Russia, including a 2007 Sound Opinions interview with the late Tommy Ramone. Tommy died on July 11th and was the last surviving original member of the pioneering punk band. Later, Jim and Greg review a new album from Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers.
#452 Rosanne Cash & Opinions on Jenny Lewis
Jul 25 2014
Singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash performs songs from her recent album The River & the Thread and talks about carrying on her family's legacy and why there's no love lost between her and country music. This interview was recorded in front of an audience at WXPN in Philadelphia. Later Jim and Greg review the new release from another singer-songwriter, Jenny Lewis.
#451 Rob Reiner on Spinal Tap & Opinions on Morrissey
Jul 18 2014
Sound Opinions celebrates the 30th anniversary of the greatest rock movie ever: This Is Spinal Tap. Jim and Greg turn it up to 11 and discuss the fine line between clever and stupid with comedian and director Rob Reiner. Later they review the new album from English brooder Morrissey.
#450 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Brian Eno
Jul 11 2014
Jim and Greg unearth some "Buried Treasures": bands that you might not have heard of but should. Then they review new album from First Aid Kit and Brian Eno & Karl Hyde.
#449 Purple Rain and Opinions on Mastodon
Jul 04 2014
Jim and Greg look back at the classic Prince album Purple Rain on its 30th anniversary. They talk to Prince collaborators Wendy & Lisa about the album's avant-garde pop sound and suggestive lyrics. Later they review a new album by the metal band Mastodon.
#448 The 2014 Mid-Year Review & Opinions on Bob Mould
Jun 27 2014
It's never too early to start making lists! Tune in for The Best Albums of 2014…so far. Later, Jim and Greg review a new contender by Husker Du founder Bob Mould.
#447 Angel Olsen & Opinions on Lana Del Rey
Jun 20 2014
Singer-songwriter Angel Olsen shares her dramatic tunes of heartbreak and humor. Later, Jim and Greg review the new album from singer Lana Del Rey.
#446 Richard Thompson & Opinions on Jack White
Jun 13 2014
Guitar virtuoso Richard Thompson of Fairport Convention joins hosts Jim and Greg in the studio for an interview and live performance. Later, Jim and Greg review the new album by fellow guitar rocker Jack White of The White Stripes.
#445 The Baseball Project, The Rock Doctors Perform Surgery & Opinions on Sharon Van Etten
Jun 06 2014
Paging the Rock Doctors! Jim and Greg help a fellow physician find the perfect surgery soundtrack. Plus, Steve Wynn and Scott McCaughey, members of supergroup The Baseball Project, talk about America's two favorite pastimes: Baseball and Rock 'n' Roll. Then, Jim and Greg review the new album from indie songstress Sharon Van Etten.
#444 Warpaint & Opinions on Neil Young
May 30 2014
Warpaint, a quartet from Los Angeles, makes danceable rock and roll and they join us this week on the show. Later Jim and Greg review the new lo-fi covers album from Neil Young.
#443 Songs from the Front Lines
May 23 2014
In honor of Memorial Day our brave men and women in service, Jim and Greg play Songs from the Front Lines. Later, they review the new album from Chris Martin and Coldplay.
#442 Uncle Tupelo's No Depression and Opinions on Black Keys & Lykke Li
May 16 2014
With its innovative fusion of traditional folk and country with punk and rock 'n' roll, Uncle Tupelo's album, No Depression, is a genuine milestone in American music, inspiring countless bands and defining what we today call alt-country. Jim and Greg talk to Uncle Tupelo's drummer Mike Heidorn about the 1990 release and its recent reissue. Later, they review new records by Swedish singer Lykke Li and American rockers The Black Keys.
#441 Darkside & Opinions on tUnE-yArDs
May 09 2014
Electronic duo Darkside joins hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot for an interview and live performance. Later they review a new album by experimental pop artist Tune-Yards.
#440 Chess Records & Damon Albarn & Kelis Reviews
May 02 2014
Jim and Greg explore the history and influence of Chess Records. During its 25 year run, the Chicago label put out music by Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry and Muddy Waters—forever changing the sound of rock and roll. Later, they review new albums from Damon Albarn and Kelis.
#439 Songs That Make You Cry
Apr 25 2014
Get out your hankies! We've got the best musical "Tearjerkers." Then, Jim and Greg review the first record in over 15 years from The Afghan Whigs.
#438 ABBA at 40 & Eurovision
Apr 18 2014
40 years of ABBA! "ABBA Gold" author Elisabeth Vincentelli and Eurovision expert John Kennedy O'Connor speak with Jim and Greg on the 40th anniversary of the sequined Swedes' breakthrough and Eurovision victory.
#437 Giorgio Moroder and a Review of The Both
Apr 11 2014
Jim and Greg talk to Giorgio Moroder, one of the architects of Disco. And they review a new collaboration by Aimee Mann & Ted Leo.
#436 Pelican and a Review of The Hold Steady
Apr 04 2014
The post-metal quartet Pelican brings its thundering instrumentals to the Sound Opinions studio. And later, Jim and Greg review the latest album from The Hold Steady.
#435 The Allman Brothers Band & Black Lips Review
Mar 28 2014
For 45 years The Allman Brothers Band has survived murder, mayhem, death, and addictions. Jim and Greg speak with Alan Paul, author of "One Way Out: The Inside History of the Allman Brothers Band." Later they review the new album from Georgia punk rockers The Black Lips.
#434 SXSW 2014 & Nick Waterhouse Review
Mar 21 2014
Back from their trip to SXSW in Austin, TX, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share their favorite bands from the annual music conference. Later, they review the sophomore album from Nick Waterhouse.
#433 Mike Watt of Minutemen & Reviews of Pharrell Williams and The War on Drugs
Mar 14 2014
With his classic album Double Nickels on the Dime about to turn 30, bassist Mike Watt of Minutemen speaks with hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot . Later they review new albums from "Happy" Pharrell Williams and The War on Drugs.
#432 Allen Toussaint & 20 Feet from Stardom
Mar 07 2014
Allen Toussaint is a singer, songwriter, producer and all around legend. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer joins us this week to talk about his 60+ year career in music and how New Orleans is in everything he does. Jim and Greg also talk with Morgan Neville, the now Oscar winning director of "20 Feet from Stardom."
#431 Sly & the Family Stone, Oscar Songs and Lydia Loveless
Feb 28 2014
Jerry Martini and Cynthia Robinson of Sly & the Family Stone talk about the band's funk innovation, radical politics and Sly's magnetic power. Plus, Jim and Greg roll out the Oscar red carpet and review a new album from the alt-country singer/songwriter Lydia Loveless.
#430 Deltron 3030 and Beck Review
Feb 21 2014
Deltron 3030 take Jim and Greg to the 31st century with songs from Event II. Plus: Old Transfomers vs. New, and why Del the Funky Homosapien, Kid Koala, Dan the Automator, Jim and Greg all take music advice from David Byrne. Later in the show, Beck gives us his Morning Phase.
#429 The Sound Opinions World Tour in Russia & Angel Olsen Review
Feb 14 2014
With all eyes on Russia for the Olympics, Sound Opinions wants to know where everyone's ears are. Join us this week as we go through the past, present & future of Russian Music on this leg of the Sound Opinions World Tour. Then, Jim and Greg review the new album from breakout singer-songwriter Angel Olsen.
#428 Musical Couples for Valentine's Day
Feb 07 2014
Rockers in Love: Sound Opinions celebrates Valentine's Day with selections by great musical power couples. Later, Jim and Greg review the new album from punk rockers Against Me!
#427 The Dismemberment Plan & Broken Bells Review
Jan 31 2014
Greg welcomes the recently re-formed Washington D.C. indie band The Dismemberment Plan to the Sound Opinions studio. Then they review the new album from Broken Bells, the collaboration between Shins frontman James Mercer & Danger Mouse.
#426 Bands of The Bermuda Triangle
Jan 24 2014
The Bermuda Triangle: Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot remember bands they thought were destined for big things, but which disappeared with barely a trace. Later, Jim and Greg review a new album by the California indie rock band Warpaint.
#425 The Beatles "Tune In" & Bruce Springsteen Review
Jan 17 2014
The definitive Beatles historian, Mark Lewisohn, talks about the Fab Four before they were legends. His comprehensive new book "Tune In" delves into the band's early years in Liverpool and Hamburg. And Jim and Greg rekindle an age-old Sound Opinions debate: To Bruce or not to Bruce.
#424 Rodrigo Y Gabriela & Remembering Phil Everly
Jan 10 2014
Find out how Rodrigo y Gabriela went from headbanging in Mexico to busking in Dublin to headlining festivals around the world. Plus, Jim and Greg remember Phil Everly and Benjamin Curtis of Secret Machines.
#423 2013 Mixtapes & Ask the Critic
Jan 03 2014
A final farewell to 2013--Jim and Greg present their mixtapes with the best tracks of the year. Stream them at http://www.soundopinions.org/. And, find out why Greg fondly remembers Yanni and Jim may never like Britney.
#422 The Dawn of Metal & Paramount Records
Dec 27 2013
A Very Metal Xmas continues with a look at the Dawn of Metal. Before there was Metallica and Slayer, there was Judas Priest and Black Sabbath. Plus, how did one of the most famed rosters in music history end up at a chair factory in Wisconsin?
#421 Slayer Turns 30 and Reviews of Norah Jones, Billie Joe Armstrong and Childish Gambino
Dec 20 2013
We celebrate the holidays Sound Opinions style...with a dose of metal! Jim and Greg look back at Slayer, 30 years after its debut. And they review albums by Beyonce, Norah Jones & Billie Joe Armstrong and Childish Gambino.
#420 The Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular
Dec 13 2013
Sound Opinions presents a Christmas special like none other. Holiday music collector and expert Andy Cirzan is back with “Rock 'n' Pop Xmas”—Selections from XTC, The Band, The Kinks, The Beatles and more.
#419 The Best Albums of 2013
Dec 06 2013
Jim and Greg present the Best Albums of 2013, and they hear nominations from guest critics in the listening audience.
#418 Songs about the Music Business & Opinions on The Warlocks
Nov 29 2013
Suits—from the managers to the label execs—rock ‘n’ roll is filled with ‘em. Jim and Greg play the best Songs About the Biz. And they discuss the controversial viral ad parodying The Beastie Boys.
#417 Remembering Lou Reed & Opinions on M.I.A.
Nov 22 2013
Jim and Greg remember Lou Reed and five of his most important releases. Plus, M.I.A. makes a lot of headlines, and now she's made a new album. They review Matangi.
#416 Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot
Nov 15 2013
It's Turkey Time! Take out your frustrations on the year's biggest musical disappointments during our annual Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot. And, how does Lady Gaga fare on Artpop?
#415 Parquet Courts
Nov 08 2013
Parquet Courts brings the humor and punk rock. And Arcade Fire's Reflektor is finally here. Is it a Buy It?
#414 Sound Opinions on Astral Weeks, James Murphy & Lou Reed
Nov 01 2013
Jim and Greg conduct a Classic Album Dissection of Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks. The landmark release celebrates its 45th anniversary this month. Plus, a review of the chart-topping debut by New Zealand's Lorde.
#413 Neko Case & Opinions on Paul McCartney
Oct 25 2013
Neko Case returns to her old Chicago stomping grounds for a special live Sound Opinions recording at The Hideout. Then Jim and Greg review the latest from Sir Paul McCartney.
#412 Sound Opinions Halloween Special & Opinions on Pearl Jam
Oct 18 2013
Kill 'em all, Jim and Greg say. At least when it comes to Halloween tunes. This week they play their favorite Murder Songs. Then, ten albums after Ten, Pearl Jam is back.
#411 Willis Earl Beal & Opinions on Kings of Leon
Oct 11 2013
Willis Earl Beal shows off his powerhouse voice. Plus, Jim and Greg ponder the powerhouse sales of Kings of Leon
#410 Fall Record Reviews & Jim's DIJ
Oct 04 2013
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot get critical with five new record releases from the likes of Justin Timberlake, Elvis Costello, Franz Ferdinand, The Weeknd and HAIM.
#409 Savages & Opinions on Drake
Sep 27 2013
Electrifying, intense, experimental, spectacular...however you want to describe Savages, this U.K. quartet is taking over stateside, and we got 'em live on the show. Plus, who won the Polaris Prize? And speaking of Canada, how's the new Drake? Tune in!
#408 Replacements Reunion & Classic Album Dissection
Sep 20 2013
Jim and Greg dissect The Replacements’ classic album Let It Be in honor of the band getting back together after a twenty two year hiatus.
#407 Cheap Trick Live At Budokan
Sep 13 2013
Cheap Trick join us live in the studio to celebrate the 35th anniversary of their landmark live album At Budokan. The band members talk about the Beatlemania they experienced in Japan and why they'll steal your guitar, but never your girlfriend. Later, Jim and Greg also review the new album from genre busting R&B singer and songwriter Janelle Monáe.
#406 The Rock Doctors do Kung Fu & Opinions on Nine Inch Nails and Sam Phillips
Sep 06 2013
Time for a visit to the doctor. Don't fret, we mean the Rock Doctors! Plus reviews of new albums by Nine Inch Nails and Sam Phillips.
#405 The Sound Opinions World Tour in South Africa
Aug 30 2013
Think South African music means Paul Simon's Graceland? Then this is the episode for you. Jim and Greg learn where Paul Simon picked up that Kwela guitar when the Sound Opinions World Tour touches down in South Africa.
#404 Music of the Civil Rights Movement
Aug 23 2013
Jim and Greg mark the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream Speech" with a discussion of the Music of the Civil Rights Movement.
#403 Josh Homme & Opinions on Superchunk
Aug 17 2013
Queens of the Stone Age founder Josh Homme joins Jim and Greg for a conversation in the Sound Opinions studios. (Don't miss his story about meeting John Paul Jones at Medieval Times!) Later on, Jim and Greg review I Hate Music, the new record from indie mainstays Superchunk.
#402 Lindsey Buckingham
Aug 09 2013
Fleetwood Mac's guitar hero Lindsey Buckingham is live in the Sound Opinions studios. He reveals his guitar influences and dishes on four decades of Fleetwood Mac soap operas.
#401 The Best Rock Instrumentals & Opinions on Trouble
Aug 02 2013
Who needs lyrics? This week, Jim and Greg play the Best Rock Instrumentals. And later, metal fans rejoice! We've got a review of the new album from doom metal act Trouble.
#400 Buried Treasures & Robin Thicke Review
Jul 26 2013
Jim and Greg break out the metal detector and dig deep for Buried Treasures. They spotlight great albums buried under the Top 40. Then it's back to the charts for a review of the latest from blue-eyed soul singer Robin Thicke
#399 Johnny Marr & Reviews of El-P and Killer Mike
Jul 19 2013
"This Charming Man" Johnny Marr joins Jim and Greg live in the studio. He talks guitar wizardry, his new solo career, and of course The Smiths. Later, Jim and Greg review Run the Jewels, the latest collaboration between MCs Killer Mike and El-P.
#398 Music of The Beats & Opinions on Jay-Z
Jul 12 2013
Think beat poetry is all about berets and bongos? Think again. Text and Drugs and Rock 'n' Roll author Simon Warner reveals the rockin' side of the beat movement. And later, Jim and Greg weigh in on holy father Jay-Z's Magna Carta Holy Grail.
#397 Indians & Black Sabbath Review
Jul 05 2013
Danish electro-pop act Indians brings its radiant soundscapes to the Sound Opinions studio. Plus, Black Sabbath are back. Jim and Greg review the nineteenth studio album from the OG's of metal.
#396 The Sound Opinions World Tour in Mexico
Jun 28 2013
The Sound Opinions World Tour lands in Mexico City. Rock journalists Josh Norek and Alejandro Franco are our guides to music south of the border. And back in Chicago, Jim and Greg review One True Vine, the new Jeff Tweedy-produced release from gospel godmother Mavis Staples.
#395 Bryan Ferry & Opinions on Kanye West
Jun 20 2013
Jim and Greg don their spiffiest suits for a sit-down with Roxy Music's stylish founder Bryan Ferry. And later in the show, they weigh in on Kanye West’s dark new album Yeezus.
#394 Best Family Bands & The Handsome Family Review
Jun 13 2013
The family that plays together, stays together, or so the saying goes. And so in honor of Father's Day, Jim and Greg play music from their favorite Family Bands. Plus they review yet another family effort: the new record from americana act The Handsome Family.
#393 Best Albums of 2013...So Far
Jun 07 2013
Does January's best album still hold up in June? After submitting their favorite records to months of listening, Jim and Greg unveil the Best Albums of 2013…So Far. Plus, Queens of the Stone Age are back; Jim and Greg review …Like Clockwork.
#392 *At Folsom Prison* & Reviews of {artist: Natalie Maines} and {artist: The National}
May 31 2013
Johnny Cash’s At Folsom Prison turns 45 this month, and Jim and Greg celebrate with a Classic Album Dissection. Plus they review new records from Brooklyn rockers The National and Dixie Chick Natalie Maines.
#391 Wild Belle & Daft Punk Review
May 24 2013
Wild Belle brings its brand of reggae-inspired psychedelic pop to the studio. And later, the robots are back. Jim and Greg don their chrome helmets for a review of Daft Punk's highly-anticipated new album Random Access Memories.
#390 Peter Hook & Chance the Rapper Review
May 17 2013
Peter Hook seperates fact from Joy Division legend. The influential bassist remembers bandmate Ian Curtis and addresses recent rifts in New Order. And later in the show, Jim and Greg review the next mixtape from up-and-coming Chicago MC Chance the Rapper.
Show #389: Tame Impala & Savages Review
May 10 2013
Break out your paisley shirt: psychedelic rockers Tame Impala are live in the studio! Kevin Parker and co. perform tracks from their latest album Lonerism. And later, Jim and Greg review the debut album from buzzed-about post-punk band, Savages.
#388 Sound Opinions World Tour in Japan & Jessie Ware Review
May 03 2013
It's stop number two on the Sound Opinions World Tour, and Jim and Greg are “Big in Japan.” Tokyo-based journalist Daniel Robson gives us an education in J-pop and the Japanese underground. And later, Jim and Greg review UK singer Jessie Ware's stateside debut.
#387 Joe Boyd & Opinions on The Besnard Lakes
Apr 26 2013
Decades after his death, UK songwriter Nick Drake gets his due. Jim and Greg talk legacy and tribute albums with Drake producer Joe Boyd. And later, they review the new album from Canadian shoegazers The Besnard Lakes.
#386 Kurt Vile & Phoenix Review
Apr 19 2013
Philly-based guitar wizard Kurt Vile is live in the studio and ready to shred. Later, Jim and Greg review Bankrupt!, the new album from Sound Opinions alums Phoenix.
#385 Remembering Roger Ebert & Opinions on the Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Apr 12 2013
Jim and Greg remember a friend and critical hero: Roger Ebert. In 2006, the three critics sat down to talk music movies and Ebert's own rock 'n' roll past. (His story about meeting Sid Vicious will crack you up.) Later in the show, Jim and Greg look past the creepy album art and review the Yeah Yeah Yeahs' latest, Mosquito.
#384 Emeli Sande & Opinions on Low
Apr 05 2013
She played the Olympics opening ceremony, now Emeli Sandé takes her soulful pop to the Sound Opinions studio. Jim and Greg talk to the UK songwriter about breaking it big in the U.S. And later in the show, Jim and Greg review the new Jeff Tweedy-produced album from Low.
#383 Grand Slams (Four Great Albums in a Row) & The Strokes Review
Mar 29 2013
This Week, Jim and Greg let the sports metaphors fly. They celebrate baseball's Opening Day by running down musical Grand Slams: four knockout albums in a row. Plus, have New Yorkers The Strokes hit it out of the park on album number five?
#382 SXSW 2013 & Opinions on Justin Timberlake
Mar 22 2013
Jim and Greg are back in one piece from Austin, TX, ready to share their favorite musical finds from the SXSW Music Conference. (What band has Jim declaring he's "seen God"? Tune in to find out.) Later in the show, Jim and Greg weigh in on Justin Timberlake's long-awaited musical comeback,The 20/20 Experience.
#381 Tony Visconti & Opinions on David Bowie
Mar 15 2013
Bowie is Back! Jim and Greg talk with longtime Bowie producer Tony Visconti about "Space Oddity," glam, and swinging London. Then they review David Bowie's new album The Next Day, re-igniting their decades-long debate over the pop chameleon's musical legacy.
#380 Lucinda Williams & Opinions on Rhye
Mar 08 2013
A decade and a half after Car Wheels on a Gravel Road, alt-country pioneer Lucinda Williams is still rocking out. She and the band drop by the Sound Opinions studios for a chat and live performance. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review the steamy new album from pop duo Rhye.
#379 Sound Opinions World Tour: Sweden & Atoms for Peace Review
Mar 01 2013
Jim and Greg kick off the Sound Opinions World Tour with a musical voyage to Sweden. DJ Stefan Wermelin is our guide through Swedish Pop history from ABBA to Robyn. And later in the show, Jim and Greg review the first album from Thom Yorke-led supergroup, Atoms for Peace.
#378 Buried Treasures and Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds Review
Feb 22 2013
Call it Sound Opinions' antidote to the Grammys: Jim and Greg play tracks they think deserve wider notice during our latest Buried Treasures episode. And later the in show, Jim and Greg review the new album from renaissance man Nick Cave.
#377 Jimmy Cliff & Richard Thompson Review
Feb 15 2013
Reggae legend Jimmy Cliff is live in the Sound Opinions studio. Plus, guitar great Richard Thompson goes "Electric."
#376 Valentine's Day Special & My Bloody Valentine Review
Feb 08 2013
When candy, flowers, and love notes fail, you've still got a shot at wooing your sweetheart back with a great Pleading Song. This Valentine's Day, Jim and Greg share their I Want You Back playlists. And later in the show - a different kind of Valentine. Jim and Greg review the first new music from My Bloody Valentine in 21 years.
#375 The db's & Solange Review
Feb 01 2013
The dB's weren't ever big sellers, but they're power pop royalty. This week, the band's live in the Sound Opinions studios. And later in the show, Jim and Greg review the new EP from Beyonce's kid sister, Solange.
#374 Trey Parker and Matt Stone & Reviews of New Order and Parquet Courts
Jan 25 2013
South Park fans rejoice! Trey Parker and Matt Stone - the creative minds behind the TV series and the Tony Award-winning musical Book of Mormon - are live in the Sound Opinions studio talking comedy and music. Later, Jim and Greg review new albums from New Order and Parquet Courts.
#373 Best Satirical Songs & Yo La Tengo Review
Jan 18 2013
With tongues planted firmly in cheek, Jim and Greg share their picks for the Best Satirical Songs in rock 'n' roll. Later Greg and our own "Son of Jersey" Jim DeRogatis review the new record from Hoboken's Yo La Tengo.
#372 Aimee Mann & Bruno Mars Review
Jan 11 2013
Indie songstress Aimee Mann visits the Sound Opinions studios. Plus Jim and Greg review the new album, "Unorthodox Jukebox," by Bruno Mars.
#371 Shoegaze (Genre Dissection) & Big Boi Review
Jan 04 2013
Jim and Greg dive into the influential UK genre known as Shoegaze and review the latest record from Outkast's Big Boi.
#370 Mixtapes 2012 & In Memoriam
Dec 28 2012
Jim and Greg give you a soundtrack to kick off 2013 when they reveal their annual Mixtapes. Plus they remember the musical greats we lost this year.
#369 Supergroups & Alicia Keys Review
Dec 21 2012
Jim and Greg delve into the mysteries of band chemistry when they explore the history of Supergroups. And later in the show, they review the new album from "Girl on Fire" Alicia Keys.
#368 Holiday Spectacular 2012: Santa Soul
Dec 14 2012
Every year Jim and Greg set out the cookies and milk, hoping for a visit from Sound Opinions' own Kris Kringle, crate-digging DJ Andy Cirzan. This year, Andy joins us for a special soul music edition of our Holiday Spectacular: Santa Soul.
#367 The Best Albums of 2012
Dec 07 2012
Jim and Greg have made their lists and checked ‘em twice. Now the big moment has arrived. Without further ado: The Best Albums of 2012.
#366 Divine Fits & Rihanna Review
Nov 30 2012
Divine Fits – the duo of Spoon’s Britt Daniel and Handsome Furs’ Dan Boeckner – pay a visit to the Sound Opinions studios. And later in the show, Rihanna's making news again, but how's the music? Jim and Greg review the queen of pop's ubiquitous new album, Unapologetic.
#365 Big Star Dissection & Soundgarden Review
Nov 23 2012
Jim and Greg celebrate power pop innovators Big Star. The band's debut album #1 Record turns 40 this year. Plus does former "Turkey" Chris Cornell redeem himself with the new Soundgarden release?
#364 Turkey Shoot 2012 & The Coup Review
Nov 16 2012
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it's time for Jim and Greg to take aim at the year's biggest musical turkeys. They run down 2012's biggest musical disappointments in our annual Turkey Shoot. And later, they review the new record from Oakland-based agit-rappers The Coup.
#363 John Cale & Tame Impala Review
Nov 09 2012
John Cale co-founded the Velvet Underground with Lou Reed, but he hasn't been sitting on his laurels. This week, the inveterate art rock experimenter is live in the Sound Opinions studio. Plus Jim and Greg don their paisley shirts for a review of the latest album by Australian psychedelic rockers Tame Impala.
#362 'Live at the Apollo' Classic Album Dissection & Reviews of Neil Young and Kendrick Lamar
Nov 02 2012
Get ready for some screamin', some pleadin' and some shimmyin'. Fifty years after it was recorded, Jim and Greg look back at James Brown's Live at the Apollo album with his biographer RJ Smith. Then they review Neil Young's 2nd album of 2012 and the debut record from Compton rapper Kendrick Lamar.
#361 Halloween Special 2012 & Converge Review
Oct 26 2012
"Monster Mash" not quite cutting it with the jaded trick-or-treaters in your neighborhood? Well you're in luck. On this year's Sound Opinions Halloween Special, Jim and Greg share some Monster Songs sure to send chills up the kids' spines. And later in the show, they review the new album from Salem-based metal band Converge.
#360 Ty Segall & Reviews of Miguel and Grizzly Bear
Oct 19 2012
Grab those earplugs - loud guitars ahead. Ty Segall and his band join Jim and Greg for a live taping of Sound Opinions at Chicago's Lincoln Hall. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review much-buzzed new records from R&B newcomer Miguel and indie rock royalty Grizzly Bear.
#359 Passion Pit & Wanda Jackson Review
Oct 12 2012
Jim and Greg host Passion Pit frontman Michael Angelakos at the Sound Opinions studios. Michael opens up about his production style and mental health struggles, and gives one of our favorite stripped-down live performances ever. Later, Jim and Greg review the new Justin Townes Earle produced release by Queen of Rockabilly Wanda Jackson.
#358 Rock Doctors with Mark Crilley and Reviews of Mumford & Sons and Lupe Fiasco
Oct 05 2012
Jim and Greg don their stethoscopes and become the Rock Doctors. Their patient? Acclaimed comic book writer and illustrator Mark Crilley. They'll see if they can't give this self-proclaimed musical softie a harder edge. Plus they review the new chart-topping album from Mumford & Sons.
#357 Japandroids & Reviews of Green Day and The xx
Sep 28 2012
Canadian garage rockers Japandroids join Jim and Greg onstage for a special taping of Sound Opinions Live at Chicago's Lincoln Hall. And later Jim and Greg review new releases from Green Day and The XX.
#356 El-P & Bob Dylan Review
Sep 21 2012
Rapper, record mogul, and underground hip-hop producer El-P is live in the studio. Plus Jim and Greg review Tempest, the 35th studio album from American music legend Bob Dylan.
#355 Buried Treasures & Divine Fits Review
Sep 14 2012
Jim and Greg share some of their favorite music under the mainstream radar in the latest installment of Buried Treasures.
#354 OFF! & Reviews of Cat Power and Bob Mould
Sep 07 2012
The punk supergroup OFF! performs live in the studio. Plus Jim and Greg review new records from Cat Power and Bob Mould.
#353 Elephant 6 Revisted & Dead Can Dance Review
Aug 31 2012
Jim and Greg revisit their conversation with The Apples in Stereo’s Robert Schneider about the Elephant 6 Recording Collective. Plus, they review Anastasis, the new record from longtime 4AD band Dead Can Dance.
#352 Days of the Week Songs & Yeasayer Review
Aug 24 2012
Jim and Greg celebrate the best Days of the Week songs, and follow it up with a review of Brooklyn band Yeasayer's third album "Fragrant World."
#351 1977: The Year Punk Broke (Part 2) & Antibalas Review
Aug 17 2012
In part two of our series 1977: The Year Punk Broke, Jim and Greg look at the punk movement stateside with music writer Ira Robbins. And later, Jim and Greg review the self-titled new album from afropop band Antibalas.
#350 1977: The Year Punk Broke (Part 1) & Red Kross Review
Aug 10 2012
In part one of our two-part series on the historic year 1977, Jim and Greg explore the punk explosion in the UK with music writer Jon Savage. And later, they review "Researching the Blues" from LA power pop band Redd Kross.
#349 Jack White
Aug 03 2012
Jim and Greg sit down with the hardest working man in rock, Jack White, at Third Man studios in Nashville.
#348 Lydia Loveless & Mission of Burma and Passion Pit Opinions
Jul 27 2012
Singer Lydia Loveless writes country songs with punk rock flair. She performs tracks from her latest release, Indestructible Machine, live in the studio. Plus, Jim and Greg review new releases from Mission of Burma and Passion Pit.
#347 The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars (Classic Album Dissection)
Jul 20 2012
Forty years after its release, David Bowie’s The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars gets the Classic Album Dissection treatment. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review "channel ORANGE" the much-anticipated new release from R&B star Frank Ocean.
#346 Kelly Hogan & Reviews of Emeli Sande & Hot Chip
Jul 13 2012
Singer Kelly Hogan visits the studio. A sought-after collaborator for the likes of Neko Case and Andrew Bird, Hogan’s powerful voice shines through on her new solo record, I Like to Keep Myself in Pain. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review new releases from Emeli Sande and Hot Chip.
#345 Summer Record Review Roundup
Jul 06 2012
In the past weeks, Greg and Jim’s inboxes have filled up with new releases from Patti Smith, Best Coast, Ty Segall, and others. Tune in as they review them during our Summer Record Review Roundup.
#344 Van Hunt & Fiona Apple Review
Jun 29 2012
Van Hunt’s eclectic R&B incorporates influences from Sly Stone to Bowie. He and the band stop by the studio to perform songs from their latest album, What Were You Hoping For? Plus, Jim and Greg review the new Fiona Apple.
#343 Best Albums of 2012 So Far & Neil Young and Crazy Horse Review
Jun 22 2012
Jim and Greg love lists so much they can’t wait until the end of the year to make them. Tune in to hear The Best Albums of 2012...So Far. And later, Neil Young and Crazy Horse take on the American songbook on "Americana."
#342 Willie Nelson, K-Pop & A Real Life Desert Island Jukebox
Jun 15 2012
On the occasion of Willie Nelson's 66th studio release, Jim and Greg review the American icon's wide-ranging career with Texas music authority Joe Nick Patoski. But first, Jim and Greg get an education in K-pop, the Korean musical export poised for U.S. success.
#341 Electronic Dance Music & Garbage Review
Jun 08 2012
Jim and Greg explore the growing genre of Electronic Dance Music and the new rave generation with writer Philip Sherburne. Then they review "Not Your Kind of People," the first new album from Garbage in seven years.
#340 Screaming Females & the Alan Lomax Archive
Jun 01 2012
The aptly named punk trio Screaming Females visit the studio.
#339 Disco Doesn't Suck and Opinions on Beach House & Killer Mike
May 25 2012
Jim and Greg go "Disco" and remember Donna Summer. Plus a review of the latest from ephemeral pop duo Beach House.
#338 James Mercer & Norah Jones Review
May 18 2012
James Mercer of The Shins stops by to showcase songs from the band’s new album Port of Morrow. Later, Jim and Greg review the new collaboration between Norah Jones and Danger Mouse.
#337 Songs About Mom
May 11 2012
Jim and Greg celebrate Mother’s Day with their favorite Songs About Mom. Plus, they remember late Beastie Boy Adam "MCA" Yauch.
#336 Sharon Van Etten & Santigold Review
May 04 2012
Modern folk rocker Sharon Van Etten performs live in the studio. Jim and Greg also review the sophomore release from pop artist Santigold.
#335 Rock Doctors Family Practice & Jack White Review
Apr 27 2012
The Rock Doctors clinic is open for business. Tune in to hear Drs. Kot and DeRogatis prescribe a dose of new music to some listeners in need. Later they review the new solo record by Jack White.
#334 Best Second Acts & Spiritualized Review
Apr 20 2012
This week it’s the “Comeback Kids” of rock and roll. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot highlight some of the Best Second Acts in music history. And later in the show, they review the new record from Spiritualized, "Sweet Heart Sweet Light."
#333 Alabama Shakes & Opinions on Nicki Minaj
Apr 13 2012
Tune in for a live performance from the breakout band of the moment, Alabama Shakes. Plus, Jim and Greg review the new album from rap's Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj.
#332 Amazing Grace (Classic Album Dissection) & Willis Earl Beal Review
Apr 06 2012
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot conduct a Sound Opinions Classic Album Dissection of Aretha Franklin’s 1972 release Amazing Grace. They talk to author Aaron Cohen about the gospel masterpiece, which was recorded forty years ago. Later, they review the debut album from outsider artist Willis Earl Beale, "Acousmatic Sorcery."
#331 The Kills & Reviews of Madonna and Dr. John
Mar 30 2012
Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince of The Kills bring their blend of blues grit, melodic vocals and drum-machine beats to the studio. Later Jim and Greg review new albums by the “Queen of Pop,” Madonna, and the “Night Tripper,” Dr. John.
#330 SXSW 2012 & The Shins Review
Mar 23 2012
Jim and Greg are back from their annual visit to the SXSW Music Conference with all the news, trends and must-hear bands for 2012. Later they review the new record from the re-tooled Shins, "Port of Morrow."
#329 Nick Lowe & Sinead O'Connor Review
Mar 16 2012
Jim and Greg talk to English singer, songwriter and producer Nick Lowe about his long career—from the punk and new wave scenes in the ‘70s to his most recent album The Old Magic. Plus, they review the new album from controversial Irish singer Sinead O’Connor.
#328 The Monkees & Reviews of Andrew Bird and Kid Cudi
Mar 09 2012
Jim and Greg revisit their discussion of the history and legacy of the “Revolutionary Made-for-TV Band,” The Monkees with writer Eric Lefcowitz. Monkees teen idol Davy Jones died recently at age 66. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review new releases from Andrew Bird and WZRD.
#327 Fred Armisen & Reviews of Bruce Springsteen and Mark Lanegan
Mar 02 2012
Fred Armisen of Portlandia and Saturday Night Live talks music and comedy with hosts Jim and Greg. Later in the show, Jim and Greg renew their Bruce Springsteen debate when they review the boss's latest, "Wrecking Ball."
#326 Dessa & Sleigh Bells Review
Feb 24 2012
Jim and Greg welcome singer, poet and rapper Dessa and review the latest from electro-pop duo Sleigh Bells.
#325 1967: Monterey Pop and the Live Music Explosion
Feb 17 2012
Sound Opinions continues its celebration of the 45th anniversary of the watershed year 1967. During this episode Jim and Greg focus on the historic Monterey International Pop Festival and its landmark performances during the "Summer of Love".
#324 First Love Songs & Opinions on Lana Del Rey
Feb 10 2012
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Jim, Greg and the listeners name their favorite First Love Songs. And later in the show, forget the meme - what about the music? Jim and Greg review the debut album from Lana Del Rey.
#323 1967: The Album as Art
Feb 03 2012
Sound Opinions celebrates the 45th anniversary of one of the most influential years in rock and roll history: 1967. During this episode Jim and Greg explore the evolution of the studio as an instrument and talk about landmark releases by The Beatles, Pink Floyd and The Velvet Underground.
#322 Debbie Harry & Leonard Cohen Review
Jan 27 2012
Longtime Blondie frontwoman Debbie Harry looks back at four decades on the cutting edge. Plus, Jim and Greg review the new record from rock poet Leonard Cohen, "Old Ideas."
#321 Short but Sweet & Craig Finn Review
Jan 20 2012
Short but Sweet – Proving that great things do come in small packages, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot run down some of rock and roll’s best under 2 minute tunes. Plus, The Hold Steady's Craig Finn goes solo: Jim and Greg review "Clear Heart Full Eyes."
#320 The Jayhawks & The Weeknd Review
Jan 13 2012
Recently reunited quintet The Jayhawks perform classic songs from its catalog, as well as new tracks from the band’s first album in eight years, Mockingbird Time. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review the new mixtape from Canadian R&B artist The Weeknd.
#319 Winter 2012 Review Roundup
Jan 06 2012
Jim and Greg kick off 2012 with reviews of some big winter releases by Amy Winehouse, The Roots and The Black Keys.
#318 Mixtapes 2011
Dec 30 2011
Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot ring in the New Year with their annual Mixtapes. They've compiled the Best Songs of 2011 to give you the perfect year-end soundtrack. They also speak with New York Times reporter Ben Sisario about the year’s biggest music news story.
#317 Desert Island Jukebox
Dec 23 2011
Jim and Greg have handed control of the Desert Island Jukebox over to some of their favorite guests. Members of LCD Soundsystem, Wild Flag, Slayer and more talk about albums and songs they can’t live without.
#316 Christmas Spectacular 2011
Dec 16 2011
Tune in for our annual Sound Opinions Xmas Spectacular with holiday obscura collector Andy Cirzan.
#315 The Best Albums of 2011
Dec 09 2011
It’s the moment all music fans wait for…the end! Without further ado: The Best Albums of 2011.
#314 Trombone Shorty & Brian Wilson Review
Dec 02 2011
Horn player Trombone Shorty and his band New Orleans Avenue bring the “Supafunkrock” to the studio. Plus, the record Beach Boys fans have been waiting forty years for - Jim and Greg review "Smile Sessions."
#313 The Rock Doctors Treat Paul Krugman & Reviews of Oasis and Kate Bush
Nov 25 2011
The Rock Doctors Clinic is open for business. And this time Drs. Kot and DeRogatis have their first appointment with a Nobel Prize winner. They talk music with economist and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman. Later they review the new solo album from Oasis’ songwriter-guitarist Noel Gallagher.
#312 Turkey Shoot 2011 & Drake Review
Nov 18 2011
Sound Opinions celebrates Thanksgiving with its annual Turkey Shoot. From the butterball to the tofurkey, we run down this year's greatest musical disappointments. Plus, singing and rapping? Jim and Greg see if Drake makes it work on "Take Care."
#311 Wild Flag and Lou Reed & Metallica Review
Nov 11 2011
Indie rock supergroup Wild Flag performs live. Plus, Jim and Greg rate the success of the unlikely collaboration between Metallica and Lou Reed.
#310 Brian Eno & Coldplay Review
Nov 04 2011
Jim and Greg are joined by legendary producer, electronic music pioneer and philosopher Brian Eno. Later they review the latest album by frequent Eno collaborators, Coldplay.
#309 Halloween Special 2011 & Tom Waits Review
Oct 28 2011
Tune in for Sound Opinions’ annual Halloween celebration featuring scary tunes nominated by listeners from around the country. Plus, Jim and Greg review the new release from the king of creep-rock, Tom Waits.
#308 Cut Copy & Björk Review
Oct 21 2011
The Australian electronic pop band Cut Copy performs live in the studio. And later, Bjork turns science teacher. Jim and Greg review the Icelandic artist's latest, "Biophilia."
#307 Hero Worship & Reviews of Van Hunt and Mastodon
Oct 14 2011
Hero Worship – Jim and Greg play a collection of songs that name-check great artists from the history rock and roll. And later they review new albums by R&B singer Van Hunt and metal group Mastodon.
#306 R.E.M. & Wilco Review
Oct 07 2011
Jim and Greg look back at the history and legacy of R.E.M. The alternative rockers announced their breakup after three decades. Plus a review of Wilco's latest, "The Whole Love."
#305 Bob Ezrin & Das Racist Review
Sep 30 2011
Bob Ezrin, the "producer's producer" talks about working on classic albums by Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, Kiss and Peter Gabriel. Plus, can Das Racist follow up the hit that was "Combination Pizza Hut and Taco Bell"? Jim and Greg review the hip-hop group's full-length debut, "Relax."
#304 Handsome Furs & St. Vincent Review
Sep 23 2011
Husband and wife electro-pop duo Handsome Furs perform live in the studio. Later, Jim and Greg review the new record from Sound Opinions alum St. Vincent, "Strange Mercy."
#303 Bootsy Collins & Lindsey Buckingham Review
Sep 16 2011
You know it when you hear it, but what is Funk? Jim and Greg trace a history of the genre with legendary bassist Bootsy Collins. And later, they review Lindsey Buckingham's one-man-record "Seeds We Sow."
#302 Iron and Wine & Wild Flag Review
Sep 09 2011
Folk singer Sam Beam and his band Iron and Wine perform live in the studio. Later, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot review the debut album by female supergroup Wild Flag.
#301 Songs About Work & Opinions on Lil' Wayne
Sep 02 2011
Sound Opinions honors our nation's laborers with the best Songs About Work. And later, Jim and Greg review new albums from Lil' Wayne and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
#300 Rust Never Sleeps & Opinions on Stephen Malkmus
Aug 26 2011
Jim and Greg conduct a Classic Album Dissection of Neil Young's 1979 part acoustic/part electric masterpiece, Rust Never Sleeps. Plus, what do you get when Stephen Malkmus and Beck join forces? Jim and Greg review the Pavement frontman's new record, "Mirror Traffic."
#299 Buried Treasures & Opinions on John Hiatt
Aug 19 2011
For every arena rocker and summer festival headliner, there are great, unknown artists. This week hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot highlight these lesser-known gems. Tune in for Buried Treasures, plus a review of the latest from veteran singer/songwriter John Hiatt.
#298 Damon Krukowski & Naomi Yang and Opinions on Jay-Z & Kanye West
Aug 12 2011
The duo of Damon and Naomi talk about leaving Galaxie 500 and maintaining a rock and roll marriage. They perform music from their new album False Beats and True Hearts, as well as some old favorites. Plus Jim and Greg weigh in on the highly-anticipated Kanye/Jay-Z collaboration, "Watch the Throne."
#297 The Swell Season & Opinions on Sons and Daughters and The Cool Kids
Aug 05 2011
Tune in for an apperance by The Swell Season on Sound Opinions. The duo of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová grew famous through their fictional romance in the film Once. Now, there's a new documentary out chronicling their real life relationship. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review new releases from The Cool Kids and Sons & Daughters.
#296 Duets
Jul 29 2011
Famed duo "Jim and Greg" play their own all-time favorite musical Duets.
#295 Bob Mould & Opinions on Brian Eno
Jul 22 2011
Jim and Greg sit down with influential singer, songwriter and guitarist Bob Mould of Hüsker Dü and Sugar. Mould's new book See a Little Light traces his life and career. Later Jim and Greg review the new record from Sound Opinions hero Brian Eno.
#294 tUnE-yArDs
Jul 15 2011
Tune in to hear the unique polyrhythms and vocal experiments of Merril Garbus' veritable one-woman band Tune-Yards.
#293 Wax Trax! Records & Opinions on Beyoncé
Jul 08 2011
Jim and Greg look back at the legacy of the revered Chicago label Wax Trax! Records. They’re joined by influential industrial musicians Paul Barker and Chris Connelly. Later in the show, Jim and Greg review Beyonce's "4".
Show 292 Best Albums of 2011 (So Far) & Opinions on Jill Scott
Jul 01 2011
Jim and Greg get a jump on their best-of lists by naming the Top Albums of 2011...So Far. Plus they review "The Light of the Sun," the new record from Jill Scott.
#291 Barry Mann & Cynthia Weil and Opinions on Bon Iver
Jun 24 2011
Jim and Greg talk to legendary songwriting duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil and get the stories behind the hits “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling,” “On Broadway” and more. Later in the show, Jim and Greg take on one of the most buzzed-about records of the year so far, Bon Iver's "Bon Iver, Bon Iver."
#290 Arcade Fire & Opinions on Battles
Jun 17 2011
Arcade Fire is in the studio to perform live and talk about their rise from small indie band to chart topping Grammy winners.
#289 Songs About Dad & Opinions on Raphael Saadiq
Jun 10 2011
Jim, Greg and listener guest critics say Happy Father's Day with their favorite Songs About Dad.
#288 Late Bob Dylan & Opinions on My Morning Jacket
Jun 03 2011
Sound Opinions concludes its 70th birthday series on Bob Dylan by looking at the singer/songwriter's career renaissance. Jim and Greg learn about Dylan in the studio from engineer and producer Mark Howard.
#287 Mike Watt & Opinions on Lady Gaga and Death Cab for Cutie
May 27 2011
Mike Watt of the California punk band The Minutemen talks about the band's history, legacy and influential album Double Nickels on the Dime.
#286 Low & Opinions on Daniele Luppi
May 20 2011
Jim and Greg are joined by the Minnesota trio Low for a live performance and conversation about religion, rock and mixing music with marriage.
#285 Riotgrrrl & Opinions on The Cars and Fleet Foxes
May 13 2011
Jim and Greg look back at the history and legacy of the feminist punk movement Riot Grrrl. They talk to Sara Marcus, author of Girls to the Front.
#284 Titus Andronicus & Opinions on The Beastie Boys and The Feelies
May 06 2011
New Jersey's own Titus Andronicus bring their smart brand of punk rock to the studio.
#283 Bob Dylan Goes Electric
Apr 29 2011
Jim and Greg continue their appreciation of Bob Dylan. This week they are joined by legendary music figure Al Kooper as Dylan goes electric.
#282 Drive-By Truckers & Opinions on Gorillaz
Apr 22 2011
Southern rockers Drive-By Truckers pull up to the studio to perform live and talk with Jim and Greg.
#281 Butch Vig & Opinions on Foo Fighters and Paul Simon
Apr 15 2011
Jim and Greg talk with Butch Vig about acting as producer, and therapist, to some of the biggest names in the business, including Nirvana, Sonic Youth and Smashing Pumpkins. Later they review the Vig-produced album by the Foo Fighters.
#280 Tax Day Special and Opinions on TV on the Radio & Britney Spears
Apr 08 2011
The Sound Opinions Tax Day Special: Jim and Greg provide the perfect soundtrack to help the listeners beat their tax day blues.
#279 Early Bob Dylan & Opinions on Lykke Li
Apr 01 2011
As Bob Dylan approaches his 70th year, Jim and Greg go back to the beginning. Tune in as they look at Dylan's folk years — from protest singer to the the voice of a generation.
#278 SXSW 2011 & Opinions on The Strokes
Mar 25 2011
Jim and Greg made it back from their annual trip to the SXSW Music Festival in Austin, TX. They'll share their new discoveries for the year to come.
#277 Copyright Criminals & Opinions on R.E.M.
Mar 18 2011
Jim and Greg look at the role of sampling in music today. They talk about the history of this postmodern art form and subsequent legal debates with Kembrew McLeod, producer of Copyright Criminals.
#276 The Vaselines & Opinions on Lupe Fiasco
Mar 11 2011
Scottish rock group The Vaselines are back together in the Sound Opinions studio to perform some old gems, as well as new tunes from their recent release Sex With an X.
#275 Jac Holzman of Elektra Records & Opinions on Adele and Lucinda Williams
Mar 04 2011
Jim and Greg talk about the birth of rock and roll and the modern label system with Elektra Records founder Jac Holzman. Later in the show, they review the hit new album by British singer Adele.
#274 Gang of Four & Opinions on Radiohead
Feb 25 2011
Jim and Greg sit down with Andy Gill and Jon King, founders of the pioneering post-punk group Gang of Four. Plus they review the new album from Radiohead.
#273 The Monkees & Opinions on PJ Harvey and Drive-By Truckers
Feb 18 2011
Jim and Greg dive into the history and legacy of the “Revolutionary Made-for-TV Band,” The Monkees with writer Eric Lefcowitz.
#272 Valentine's Day Special: Unrequited Love
Feb 11 2011
Rock and roll is filled with songs about Unrequited Love. This week Jim, Greg and listeners from around the country pick their favorites for Valentine's Day.
#271 Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan & Opinions on Destroyer and The North Mississippi Allstars
Feb 04 2011
Musical duo Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan stop by the studio. Plus more music news and reviews.
#270 1991 & Opinions on Smith Westerns and Wanda Jackson
Jan 28 2011
Twenty years later, Jim and Greg look back at 1991, the year that gave us Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses and Lollapalooza.
#269 Superchunk & Opinions on The Decemberists
Jan 21 2011
Members of the North Carolina band Superchunk stop by to talk about their two decades of DIY-indie rock. They perform songs from their latest release Majesty Shredding.
#268 The Business of Hip-Hop & Opinions on Electric Wizard and Corinne Bailey Rae
Jan 14 2011
Jim and Greg discuss the business of hip-hop with Dan Charnas, author of The Big Payback.
#267 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Nicki Minaj
Jan 07 2011
Tune in for a new batch of musical Buried Treasures.
#266 Mixtapes 2010, Quincy Jones, & Opinions on Michael Jackson
Dec 31 2010
Jim and Greg present their 2010 Mixtapes with their favorite songs of the year. They'll also review the new posthumous release by Michael Jackson.
#265 Songs in the Key of Life (Classic Album Dissection) & Opinions on Duffy and Daft Punk
Dec 24 2010
Jim and Greg revisit their Classic Album Dissection of Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder. Later they review new records by French duo Daft Punk and British singer Duffy.
#264 The Sound Opinions Holiday Spectacular 2010
Dec 17 2010
Tune in for the annual Sound Opinions Christmas Spectacular featuring weird and wonderful holiday tunes curated by record collector Andy Cirzan.
#263 The Best Albums of 2010
Dec 10 2010
The end is here! Tune in for Jim and Greg's Best Albums of 2010.
#262 James Murphy and Opinions on Black Eyed Peas
Dec 03 2010
Jim and Greg conduct a career-spanning interview with musician and producer James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem.
#261 Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot 2010
Nov 26 2010
Sound Opinions Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot: Jim and Greg give thanks by taking out this year’s biggest musical disappointments.
#260 Teenage Fanclub & Opinions on Kanye West
Nov 19 2010
Kurt Cobain called them the the best band in the world. Now Teenage Fanclub joins Jim and Greg in the studio for a conversation and live performance. Then they review the new album from Kanye West and Jim drops a quarter into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#259 The Rock Doctors Go Shopping
Nov 12 2010
Paging the Rock Doctors! Jim and Greg help a listener in musical critical care.
#258 Best Coast & Opinions on Bryan Ferry
Nov 05 2010
Indie pop trio Best Coast visits the show to perform its unique mix of girl-group harmonies and shoegaze rock. Plus, decades after Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry has a new solo record.
#257 Halloween Special 2010 and Opinions on Belle & Sebastian
Oct 29 2010
It’s time for another Sound Opinions Halloween Special. Jim and Greg have once again scoured the dark underbelly of rock and roll to find the creepiest songs for the season. Plus they hear what tunes give the heebie jeebies to listeners from across the country. Later in the show Jim and Greg give a Buy It, Burn It, Trash It rating to the new album by Scottish pop band Belle and Sebastian.
#256 The Moog & Opinions on Kings of Leon
Oct 22 2010
Jim and Greg celebrate one of the 20th century’s greatest musical innovations: The Moog. Plus, they review the new album by “Band of Brothers” Kings of Leon.
#255 Pink Floyd's The Wall
Oct 15 2010
Jim and Greg conduct a Classic Album Dissection of Pink Floyd's landmark concept album The Wall.
#254 U2 Considered and Opinions on Neil Young & Black Mountain
Oct 08 2010
Jim and Greg trace U2’s path from Dublin kids to stadium giants to Broadway darlings.
#253 Michael Rother of Neu! & Opinions on Robyn and Superchunk
Oct 01 2010
Find out why Neu! truly deserves it’s ! Tune in to hear Jim and Greg’s conversation with German rock pioneer and Neu! co-founder Michael Rother. And stay tuned for reviews of the latest from Swedish pop singer Robyn and American indie rockers Superchunk.
#252 Sophomore Success & Opinions on Grinderman
Sep 24 2010
After every successful debut comes the dreaded “Sophomore Slump.” This week Jim and Greg highlight artists that managed to defeat this streak and release a “Sophomore Success”. Then its time to review Grinderman's sophomore album, Grinderman 2.
#251 White Mystery and Opinions on John Legend & The Roots
Sep 17 2010
Up and coming garage rock duo White Mystery stops by for a conversation and live performance. Then we review the new collaboration between John Legend and The Roots.
#250 Slayer & Opinions on Weezer and Richard Thompson
Sep 10 2010
Jim and Greg sit down with members of the influential metal band Slayer to talk about speed, Satan and Tipper Gore. Plus Jim and Greg review new albums from Weezer and Richard Thompson.
#249 Fall 2010 Review Roundup
Sep 03 2010
Jim and Greg give Buy It, Burn It, Trash It ratings to big new releases including the Jeff Tweedy-produced album by Mavis Staples and the latest by "Golden God" Robert Plant.
Show 248 Summer Road Trip and Isobel Campbell & Opinions on Mark Lanegan
Aug 27 2010
Join Jim and Greg on a Sound Opinions Summer Road Trip. They talk to folks coast-to-coast to find out what's happening in some great music towns across the country. Then Greg pops a quarter in the Desert Island Jukebox.
#247 Electric Warrior (Classic Album Dissection) & Opinions on John Mellencamp
Aug 20 2010
Jim and Greg conduct a Classic Album Dissection of T. Rex’s quintessential glam rock release Electric Warrior.
#246 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Tom Jones
Aug 13 2010
Buried Treasures: Jim and Greg dig up a new chest of lesser known musical gems you need to hear.
#245 Chess Records & Opinions on Dark Night of the Soul
Aug 06 2010
Jim and Greg explore the history and influence of Chess Records. During its 25 year run, the Chicago label put out music by Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry and Muddy Waters—forever changing the sound of rock and roll.
#244 Stephen Malkmus & Opinions on Arcade Fire
Jul 30 2010
Go ahead, call 'em ironic, call 'em slackers...just be sure to tune in to hear Pavement's Stephen Malkmus talk about the band's history, influence and recent reunion. Jim and Greg also review the new release by Arcade Fire.
#243 Stephen Street & Opinions on M.I.A.
Jul 23 2010
This one’s for you, Britpop fans! We’ve got record producer Stephen Street talking about his work with The Smiths, Morrissey, Blur and more. Plus, Jim and Greg review the new record by pop provocateur M.I.A., and Jim adds a song to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#242 Off the Rails & Opinions on Big Boi and Alejandro Escovedo
Jul 16 2010
Off the Rails: Jim and Greg call out some of rock’s great artists who took terrible career turns. Then Jim and Greg review albums by Big Boi and Alejandro Escovedo.
#241 The Rock Fan's Guide to Country & Opinions on The Roots and Scissor Sisters
Jul 09 2010
The Rock Fan’s Guide to Country: Tune in as Chrissie Dickinson, music writer and former editor of The Journal of Country Music, proves why country music deserves our respect. Then Jim and Greg review the new albums from The Roots and The Scissor Sisters.
#240 Thriller (Classic Album Dissection) & Opinions on Eminem and Wolf Parade
Jul 02 2010
One year after Michael Jackson’s death, Jim and Greg explore the legacy of the King of Pop’s most famous album with Nelson George, author of Thriller: The Musical Life of Michael Jackson. Plus Jim and Greg review the new albums from Eminem and Wolf Parade.
#239 Chrissie Hynde & Opinions on Christina Aguilera and Drake
Jun 25 2010
Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders joins Jim and Greg in the studio to debut her new project JP, Chrissie & The Fairground Boys. Later, Jim and Greg review big summer releases from pop star Christina Aguilera and rapper Drake.
#238 Guilty Pleasures & Opinions on Tom Petty and Rhymefest
Jun 18 2010
Guilty Pleasures: Jim, Greg & some brave listeners reveal their musical Guilty Pleasures. Plus, Jim and Greg review new albums by veteran rocker Tom Petty & rapper Rhymefest.
#237 Chris Jones & The Best Albums of 2010...So Far
Jun 11 2010
The Best Albums of 2010...So Far: Jim and Greg name their mid-year favorites. They also talk to theater critic Chris Jones about Broadway’s rock ‘n’ roll influences.
#236 The Vocoder & Opinions on Blitzen Trapper and Sleigh Bells
Jun 04 2010
Jim and Greg are joined by Dave Tompkins, author of How to Wreck a Nice Beach, a history of the vocoder from World War II to Hip-Hop. Tompkins reveals the instrument’s secret military past and funk roots.
#235 Phoenix & Opinions on Bettye LaVette
May 28 2010
Ultra-melodic French rockers Phoenix join Jim and Greg in the studio to perform songs from their hit 2009 album Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix. Plus they review the new album from Bettye LaVette and Greg drops a quarter into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#234 The Rock Doctors Battle Addiction & Opinions on The National and Janelle Monáe
May 21 2010
Rock Doctors Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot conduct their first rock and roll intervention. They help a listener with a musical addiction...before it’s too late. Plus Jim and Greg review new albums from The National and Janelle Monae.
#233 The xx & Opinions on The Dead Weather
May 14 2010
The xx has quietly taken the U.S. by storm. Now the British electronic trio is live in the Sound Opinions studio. Plus, Jim and Greg review the new album from The Dead Weather.
#232 Buried Treasures & Opinions on The New Pornographers
May 07 2010
Buried Treasures: With over 100,000 records released every year, it’s easy for some gems to fall through the track. This week Jim and Greg unearth some of their favorites.
#231 K'Naan & Opinions on The Hold Steady
Apr 30 2010
Somali-born performer K’Naan visits the show to talk about poetry, politics and hip hop. Plus, he and his band perform live in the studio.
#230 Spring 2010 Review Roundup
Apr 23 2010
New records are blooming like crazy this spring. Jim and Greg catch up on new releases from MGMT, LCD Soundsystem, Hole and more.
#229 Beach House & Opinions on Erykah Badu
Apr 16 2010
Jim and Greg are joined by the Baltimore duo Beach House and review the new Erykah Badu record.
#228 London Calling (Classic Album Dissection) & Opinions on David Byrne
Apr 09 2010
Jim and Greg conduct a Classic Album Dissection of the landmark release London Calling by the Clash.
#227 Vivian Girls & Opinions on Usher
Apr 02 2010
Rock trio Vivian Girls stop by for a conversation and live performance. Plus Jim and Greg review the new album from Usher.
#226 SXSW 2010 & Opinions on She and Him
Mar 26 2010
Jim and Greg are back from the SXSW Music Festival to tell you what bands to watch in 2010. Plus they review the latest album from She and Him.
#225 Synth-Pop & Opinions on Broken Bells
Mar 19 2010
Jim and Greg explore the roots of one of the most influential music genres today: Synth-Pop. Plus they review the collaboration between Danger Mouse and the Shins' James Mercer, Broken Bells.
#224 Mickey Leigh on Joey Ramone & Opinions on Gorillaz and The Besnard Lakes
Mar 12 2010
Jim and Greg explore the roots of one of the most influential music genres today: Synth-Pop. Plus they review the collaboration between Danger Mouse and the Shins' James Mercer, Broken Bells.
#223 Songs About Radio & Opinions on Peter Gabriel
Mar 05 2010
Jim and Greg discuss the impact of radio on the music industry and music fans. Tune in to hear their favorite Songs about Radio.
#222 Movie Music & Opinions on Gil Scott-Heron and Johnny Cash
Feb 26 2010
At the Movies co-hosts A.O. Scott of the New York Times and Michael Phillips of the Chicago Tribune join Jim and Greg to talk movies, music and the Oscars. Plus they review albums from Gil-Scott Heron, Johnny Cash and Jim drops a quarter into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#221 Rivers Cuomo & Opinions on Yeasayer
Feb 19 2010
Jim and Greg welcome Weezer front man Rivers Cuomo for a conversation and one-of-a-kind, live punk performance. Plus they review the latest album from Brooklyn indie-rockers Yeasayer.
#220 Valentine's Day Special -- Songs to Set the Mood
Feb 12 2010
Jim and Greg celebrate Valentine’s Day by playing their favorite songs to set the mood. They also hear romantic picks from listeners across the country.
#219 The Rock Doctors do Valentine's Day & Opinions on Sade
Feb 05 2010
The Rock Doctors are back in session just in time for Valentine’s Day. They provide two listeners some musical couples counseling.
#218 Peaches & Opinions on Charlotte Gainsbourg
Jan 29 2010
The always provocative electro-pop artist Peaches joins Jim and Greg for a conversation and live performance. Plus they review an album from Charlotte Gainsbourg and Jim drops a quarter in the Desert Island Jukebox.
#217 Doolittle (Classic Album Dissection) & Opinions on Midlake
Jan 22 2010
Jim and Greg are joined by Black Francis of the Pixies for a Classic Album Dissection of the band’s 1989 landmark release Doolittle.
#216 Winter 2010 Review Roundup & Jim's DIJ
Jan 15 2010
Jim and Greg review some of 2010’s biggest new releases including albums by Lil Wayne, Spoon and Lady Gaga. Plus, it’s Jim’s turn to add a song he can’t live without to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#215 Kid Sister and Opinions on Vampire Weekend & Alicia Keys
Jan 08 2010
Chicago rapper Kid Sister joins Jim and Greg to talk about her new album Ultraviolet and perform live in the studio.
#214 Mixtapes of the Decade
Jan 01 2010
Jim and Greg mark the beginning of a new year by looking at the decade past. Tune in to hear their thoughts on the most important musical moments of the 2000’s. Plus, they present their ultimate Mixtapes of the Decade.
#213 Desert Island Jukebox Special
Dec 25 2009
Jim and Greg have handed the jukebox quarters over to their guests. Members of Franz Ferdinand, The Hold Steady, The Flaming Lips and more add music they can’t live without to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#212 Christmas Spectacular 2009
Dec 18 2009
The Sound Opinions Xmas Spectacular: Our very own Kris Kringle, Andy Cirzan, is back for this highly anticipated holiday show. Andy has a new batch of weird and wonderful holiday songs to share.
#211 The Best Albums of 2009
Dec 11 2009
The Best Albums of 2009: Jim and Greg have made their lists...checked them twice...and are ready to proclaim the top albums of the year.
#210 Dhani Harrison & Opinions on Chris Brown
Dec 04 2009
Dhani Harrison visits the show with his band Thenewno2. Harrison, the son of the late Beatle George, talks to Jim and Greg about his musical upbringing, the perils of celebrity and even The Prisoner.
#209 Turkey Shoot 2009 & Opinions on Rihanna and Julian Casablancas
Nov 27 2009
Sound Opinions’ Annual Turkey Shoot: It’s time to put those musical turkeys out of their misery...and ours. Tune in to hear Jim and Greg’s biggest musical disappointments of 2009.
#208 The Dodos & Opinions on Norah Jones & Them Crooked Vultures
Nov 20 2009
San Francisco trio The Dodos visits Sound Opinions to showcase their unique mix of Western pop and African rhythms.
#207 School of Prog Rock
Nov 13 2009
School of Prog Rock: Jim and Greg explore the fantastical world of Progressive Rock with Charles Snider, author of The Strawberry Bricks Guide to Progressive Rock.
#206 Grizzly Bear & Opinions on Slayer
Nov 06 2009
Tune in to hear those signature Grizzly Bear harmonies and melodies. Jim and Greg talk to the band in front of a live studio audience at the House of Blues Chicago. And later they take on metal giants Slayer.
#205 Scary Rock Songs for Halloween
Oct 30 2009
Sound Opinions celebrates Halloween with the best Scary Rock Songs. Jim and Greg play their favorites and hear some of yours.
#204 Phoenix & Opinions on Air
Oct 23 2009
Jim and Greg welcome the quartet behind one of their favorite albums of the year: Phoenix. The French imports talk about being lost in translation and perform live in our studio.
#203 Ani DiFranco & Opinions on Bob Dylan
Oct 16 2009
Singer and songwriter Ani DiFranco visits the show to perform songs from her new album Red Letter Year and talk about her influences, politics and indie spirit.
#202 More Cowbell! (Weird Instruments of Rock) & Opinions on Muse and Death
Oct 09 2009
Weird Instruments of Rock: Forget guitar, bass and drums. This week’s episode is all about theremin, ocarina and of course, more cowbell please!
#201 Music Video Games & Opinions on The Gossip and The Flaming Lips
Oct 02 2009
Jim and Greg explore the phenomenon of music video games with one of the brains behind Guitar Hero and Rock Band, Greg LoPiccolo.
#200 2009 Fall Review Roundup
Sep 25 2009
Reviews of Pearl Jam, Mariah Carey and more, Jim's DIJ Pick
#199 U2 & Opinions on Anvil
Sep 18 2009
Love 'em or hate 'em, Bono and U2 are one of the biggest forces in music today. Tune in to hear Jim and Greg trace their path from Dublin kids to stadium giants. Later they review the new album from heavy metal band Anvil.
#198 Big Star's #1 Record and Radio City & Opinions on Jay-Z
Sep 11 2009
Jim and Greg list their favorite Songs About Work and review new albums from Phish and Vivian Girls.
#197 Work Songs & Opinions on Phish and Vivian Girls
Sep 04 2009
Jim and Greg list their favorite Songs About Work and review new albums from Phish and Vivian Girls.
#196 She & Him & Opinions on The Arctic Monkeys
Aug 28 2009
(500) Days of Summer star Zooey Deschanel visits the show to perform with She & Him partner M. Ward. Later Jim and Greg review the new album from Arctic Monkeys.
#195 The Jesus Lizard & Opinions on Yacht
Aug 21 2009
(500) Days of Summer star Zooey Deschanel visits the show to perform with She & Him partner M. Ward. Later Jim and Greg review the new album from Arctic Monkeys.
#194 Supergroups & Opinions on Mos Def
Aug 14 2009
Mix one famous musician and stir in some others. It can be a recipe for success, or disaster. Tune in for Jim and Greg’s discussion of rock’s best and worst Supergroups.
#193 The Rock Doctors Midlife & Opinions on Japandroids and Regina Spektor
Aug 07 2009
The Rock Doctors are back to help a newly 40 patient with a musical midlife crisis.
#192 Buried Treasures and Opinions on Fiery Furnaces
Jul 31 2009
Buried Treasures: Jim and Greg dig up another set of underground musical gems & then they'll review the latest album from The Fiery Furnaces.
#191 Purple Rain & Opinions on The Dead Weather
Jul 24 2009
Tune in for a Classic Album Dissection of Prince's Purple Rain, now 25 years old. Later Jim and Greg review the debut album from Jack White's new quartet Dead Weather.
#190 Best of the First Half of 2009 & Opinions on Moby and Cheap Trick
Jul 17 2009
Jim and Greg pause to take stock of the first half of 2009. Tune in to hear their lists of the Best Albums of the Year...So Far. Plus, they review new albums from electronic pop artist Moby and rock veterans Cheap Trick.
#189 St. Vincent & Opinions on Maxwell
Jul 10 2009
Jim and Greg welcome one of music's rising stars: Annie Clark, aka St. Vincent. Later they review the new album from soul singer Maxwell and Greg drops a quarter into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#188 Driving Songs
Jul 03 2009
Hit the road this summer with Jim and Greg's favorite Driving Songs.
#187 Anthony Bourdain
Jun 26 2009
Jim and Greg celebrate their two favorite things—Food and Music—with chef, author and rock fan Anthony Bourdain.
#186 Trent Reznor & Opinions on The Jonas Brothers
Jun 19 2009
Last year Trent Reznor was one of music’s biggest revolutionaries. Now he joins Jim and Greg in the studio for a conversation about the record industry, alternative nostalgia and even Chris Cornell.
#185 Steve Earle & Opinions on The Black Eyed Peas and Phoenix
Jun 12 2009
Musician Steve Earle joins Jim and Greg for a discussion of the life and legacy of singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt. Earle also performs songs written by his friend and mentor. Later Jim and Greg review new records by the Black Eyed Peas and Phoenix.
#184 Disco & Opinions on Sonic Youth and Dave Matthews Band
Jun 05 2009
Disco Dissection: Forget what you think you know about music’s most maligned genre and tune in to hear Jim and Greg reveal the real Disco.
#183 Dan Deacon & Opinions on Grizzly Bear and Wilco
May 29 2009
Jim and Greg sit down with electro-pop wizard Dan Deacon for a conversation and live performance. Plus they'll review albums from Wilco and Grizzly Bear.
#182 Nelson George & Opinions on Eminem and Passion Pit
May 22 2009
Author and critic Nelson George talks with Jim and Greg about his new book City Kid: A Writer's Memoir of Ghetto Life and Post-Soul Success. Later Jim and Greg review Eminem’s new album “Relapse.”
#181 Franz Ferdinand & Opinions on St. Vincent and Green Day
May 15 2009
After taking the U.S. by storm with their hit song “Take Me Out,” Scottish band Franz Ferdinand is back touring the country. They stopped by our studio for a conversation with Jim and Greg, as well as a live acoustic performance. Later, they'll review new albums from Green Day and St. Vincent.
#180 Joe Nick Patoski on Willie Nelson & Opinions on Bob Dylan
May 08 2009
Jim and Greg talk to Joe Nick Patoski about Willie Nelson. Then, they review the latest from Bob Dylan and Greg has a Desert Island Jukebox Pick.
#179 Best Live Albums & Opinions on Leonard Cohen
May 01 2009
With the summer concert season approaching Jim and Greg name the best live albums of all time. They also take a look at Leonard Cohen's latest concert record, Leonard Cohen: Live in London.
#178 Jill Sobule & Opinions on Booker T. Jones and The Handsome Family
Apr 24 2009
Longtime singer/songwriter Jill Sobule got fed up with the music business. So, she decided to reinvent it. Tune in to hear Jim and Greg’s conversation with Jill, and hear songs from her innovative fan-funded album.
#177 Record Store Day 2009 & Opinions on Bat for Lashes and Asher Roth
Apr 17 2009
Join Jim and Greg as they welcome a panel of independent record store representatives from around the country to celebrate Record Store Day.
#176 Literary Rock & Opinions on Metric and Neil Young
Apr 10 2009
Rock Lit 101: Jim and Greg explore rock’s literary side and discuss the best pop lyricists from the stage to the page.
#175 Blitzen Trapper and Opinions on Amadou & Mariam and PJ Harvey & John Parish
Apr 03 2009
Portland band Blitzen Trapper joins Jim and Greg to talk about their roots rock influences and perform songs from their recent album Furr.
#174 SXSW 2009 & Opinions on Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Mar 27 2009
Jim and Greg report back from the annual SXSW Music Festival with their predictions on the next big thing in rock.
#173 Merge Records & Opinions on The Decemberists and Mastodon
Mar 20 2009
North Carolina indie label Merge Records is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Join Jim and Greg as they speak with Merge founders Mac McCaughan and Laura Balance.
#172 Rock Doctors Couples Therapy & Opinions on Chris Cornell and Cursive
Mar 13 2009
Jim and Greg briefly abandon their posts as critics to become the Rock Doctors. A young couple seeks help bridging the musical divide in their relationship.
#171 Astral Weeks (Classic Album Dissection) & Opinions on Kelly Clarkson and K'Naan
Mar 06 2009
Jim and Greg conduct a Classic Album Dissection of Van Morrison’s Astral Weeks. The 1968 recording combines rock, jazz, blues and folk—making it one of the most unique and significant albums in rock history.
#170 Neko Case & Opinions on U2 and The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
Feb 27 2009
Jim and Greg welcome back singer and songwriter Neko Case to talk about storytelling, piano-collecting, and life on the farm. Plus hear her perform songs from her brand new album Middle Cyclone.
#169 Frightened Rabbit & Opinions on A.R. Rahman and Morrissey
Feb 20 2009
Scottish rock band Frightened Rabbit stop by during their tour through North America. Tune in to hear their conversation with Jim and Greg, as well as performances from their heartbreak-inspired album The Midnight Organ Fight.
#168 Unconventional Love Songs & Opinions on Adele
Feb 13 2009
If you are overloaded with traditional, sweet and sappy love songs, tune in to Sound Opinions for a remedy. Jim and Greg celebrate Valentine’s Day with songs that honor Unconventional Love. Because it doesn’t matter who or what you love, as long as it rocks.
#167 The Numero Group & Opinions on Lily Allen and Titus Andronicus
Feb 06 2009
Throughout music history, it's been too easy for worthy artists to fall through the cracks. This week Jim and Greg speak to the founders of Numero Group—a label dedicated to lifting those gems out of obscurity.
#166 Copyright Infringement Lawsuits & Opinions on Heartless Bastards
Jan 30 2009
What do Coldplay, Lil Wayne and George Harrison all have in common? They’ve all been sued for stealing music. This week Jim and Greg look at the history of copyright infringement lawsuits and talk about what happens when one artist accuses another accused of creative thievery.
#165 The Hold Steady & Opinions on Bruce Springsteen and Andrew Bird
Jan 23 2009
With their rock anthems and literary lyrics, The Hold Steady are often thought of as “the best bar band in America.” Tune in to hear them out of the bar and in our studio with a conversation and live performance.
#164 Presidential Rock & Opinions on Franz Ferdinand
Jan 16 2009
As the nation awaits its new president, Jim and Greg host their own inaugural celebration featuring the best in “Presidential Rock.”
#163 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Animal Collective
Jan 09 2009
Buried Treasures: Jim and Greg dig up another set of underground musical gems.
#162 Mixtapes 2008 & Opinions on Common
Jan 02 2009
Jim and Greg round out the year like any good music fan: with a mixtape. Tune in to hear some of their favorite songs, and then find out how they rate the new album from rapper Common.
#161 Radiohead & Opinions on Fall Out Boy
Dec 26 2008
When Radiohead visited the show in 2006, no one could predict that the band’s experiment with In Rainbows would be so successful. Take a listen to Jim and Greg’s conversation with this year’s biggest newsmakers. And later the critics will sound off on the new album from pop punk outfit Fall Out Boy.
#160 Christmas Spectacular 2008
Dec 19 2008
Sound Opinions Christmas Spectacular 2008: The show’s very own Kris Kringle, aka Andy Cirzan, is back with another batch of weird and wonderful holiday tunes.
#159 Best Albums of 2008
Dec 12 2008
Music obsessives spend a lot of time creating lists, and Jim and Greg are no exception. Tune in this week to hear their ultimate list of the year: The Best Albums of 2008.
#158 Amy Ray & Opinions on Britney Spears & The Fireman
Dec 05 2008
With the summer concert season approaching Jim and Greg name the best live albums of all time. They also take a look at Leonard Cohen's latest concert record, Leonard Cohen: Live in London.
#157 Turkey Shoot 2008 & Opinions on Kanye West, The Killers, & Rivers Cuomo
Nov 28 2008
With the summer concert season approaching Jim and Greg name the best live albums of all time. They also take a look at Leonard Cohen's latest concert record, Leonard Cohen: Live in London.
#156 Alejandro Escovedo & Review of Guns N' Roses
Nov 21 2008
Jim and Greg welcome rocker Alejandro Escovedo for a conversation and live performance. They'll also review the long awaited album from Guns N' Roses, and then it's Greg's turn to add a track to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#155 Bubblegum Pop & Opinions on Beyoncé and The Knux
Nov 14 2008
With the explosion of acts like The Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus, it’s time to take a look at the musical genre that has had teens screaming for over half a century: Bubblegum Pop.
#154 Don Felder & Opinions on Deerhunter and Q-Tip
Nov 07 2008
Guitarist Don Felder joins Jim and Greg for a conversation about the ups and downs of life with The Eagles. Plus they'll review new albums from former A Tribe Called Quest-er, Q-Tip, and Deerhunter.
#153 Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds
Oct 31 2008
At a time when most artists start to slow down, 30 year rock vets Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds are only revving up. The band recorded one of Jim and Greg’s favorite albums of the year, and now you can hear them perform their bitingly funny, dark and raucous garage rock live on the show.
#152 The Alt-Rock Doctors & Opinions on John Legend and Parts and Labor
Oct 24 2008
Been feeling under the weather? Need a good dose of rock and roll? Then tune in this week for another appointment with the Rock Doctors. Drs. Kot and DeRogatis will help a patient with a mean case of the musical blues.
#151 Calexico & Opinions on AC/DC and Bob Dylan
Oct 17 2008
Jim and Greg welcome eclectic indie rockers Calexico. Tune in to hear the band's cinematic mix of rock, folk, blues and even mariachi. And stay tuned for the latest music news and reviews.
#150 Oliver Sacks & Opinions on TV on the Radio, T.I., and Oasis
Oct 10 2008
“Awakenings” neurologist Oliver Sacks joins Jim and Greg for an enlightening discussion about the powerful connection between music and the brain. And later the critics rate new albums from TV on the Radio and Oasis.
#149 Psychedelic Soul & Opinions on Jenny Lewis and Lou Reed
Oct 03 2008
Jim and Greg check into the "Psychedelic Shack." Tune in to hear their dissection of Psychedelic Soul, from Sly and the Family Stone to Gnarls Barkley.
#148 Joan As Policewoman & Opinions on Metallica
Sep 26 2008
Jim and Greg welcome Joan as Policewoman. The classically trained musician has collaborated with the likes of Rufus Wainwright and Antony and the Johnsons, and now she brings her unique brand of American soul music to the Sound Opinions studio.
#147 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Kid Rock and Brian Wilson
Sep 19 2008
Jim and Greg are back with a new batch of Buried Treasures. These underground gems might not be well-known but they deserve more attention. And later in the show, the critics rate the latest album from rock legend Brian Wilson.
#146 Danny Goldberg, Wedding Songs, & Opinions on Ra Ra Riot
Sep 12 2008
Manager, label executive, publicist—Danny Goldberg has donned many hats in the music industry. Tune in to hear this music insider share stories of working with everyone from Led Zeppelin to Nirvana. Plus, Jim and Greg will review the new album from orchestral indie rockers Ra Ra Riot.
#145 Back-to-School Songs & Opinions on The Walkmen
Sep 05 2008
The carefree days of sun, sand and no school have come to an end. Jim and Greg want to help you beat the end of summer blues with their favorite Back-to-School songs.
#144 The Dawn of Metal and Opinions on Brian Eno & David Byrne
Aug 29 2008
Jim and Greg invite you on a trip back to The Dawn of Metal. Tune in to learn about the roots of rock’s heaviest genre. Then stay tuned for a review of the new joint project from Brian Eno and David Byrne.
#143 Tony Visconti & Opinions on Jonas Brothers
Aug 22 2008
Jim and Greg welcome producer Tony Visconti, the man behind the glam-rock sounds of T. Rex and David Bowie.
#142 She & Him & Opinions on Brazilian Girls
Aug 15 2008
Actress Zooey Deschanel has briefly left behind her male movie costars for a musical one. She's joined musician M. Ward to form She & Him, Jim and Greg's guests this week. Tune in to hear the duo's intimate conversation and live performance.
#141 Johnny Cash's At Folsom Prison & Opinions on Black Kids
Aug 08 2008
Jim and Greg honor country music maverick Johnny Cash with a Classic Album Dissection of his legendary live recording At Folsom Prison, now 40 years old.
#140 Rock Clubs in the 21st Century & Randy Newman Review
Aug 01 2008
Like the independent record store and band, the small rock club is also struggling to survive. Jim and Greg check in with a panel of music club owners, bookers and promoters from around the country to find out how things are faring in clubland.
#139 Jim and Greg Have Been Wrong
Jul 25 2008
Believe it or not, sometimes Jim and Greg are wrong. And this week on the show, they man up and admit it. Tune in to hear these critics admit to their occasional lapses in judgment.
#138 The Feelies & Opinions on Nas and Girl Talk
Jul 18 2008
It's the reunion Jim and Greg have been waiting for: The Feelies live in Hoboken, NJ. Tune in to hear their conversation with the art-punk pioneers, as well as a sampling of their exclusive performance recorded at the music club Maxwell's. Then Jim and Greg rate the new albums from Nas and Girl Talk.
#137 Sub Pop Records & Opinions on Beck and Fleet Foxes
Jul 11 2008
In honor of Sub Pop Record's 20th anniversary, Jim and Greg speak with co-founder Jonathan Poneman and play their favorite tracks from the venerated Seattle label. Then stay tuned for their reviews of the latest album from Beck and the debut record from current Sub Pop artist Fleet Foxes.
#136 Songs About America
Jul 04 2008
Join Jim and Greg for the ultimate Independence Day celebration. They'll play their favorite Songs About America and hear some of your picks.
#135 Best of 2008... So Far & Opinions on My Morning Jacket
Jun 27 2008
Jim and Greg love lists so much they can’t wait until the end of the year to make them. Tune in to hear their lists for the Best Albums of 2008...So Far. Then stay tuned for their review of the new album from My Morning Jacket.
#134 Lawrence Lessig & Reviews of Lil Wayne and Alejandro Escovedo
Jun 20 2008
With the digital music explosion, the issues of copyright, authorship and ownership have never been so important. Tune in to hear a re-broadcast of Jim and Greg’s interview with legal expert Lawrence Lessig. Plus, they’ll take a listen to the latest releases from Lil Wayne and Alejandro Escovedo.
#133 Cursive & Opinions on Coldplay and Weezer
Jun 13 2008
Omaha's own Cursive sits down with Jim and Greg live in their hometown to perform some never-before-heard tracks. Then the critics will rate the latest releases from Coldplay and Weezer.
#132 Summer Songs & Honoring Bo Diddley
Jun 06 2008
Jim and Greg celebrate the songs of summer. Tune in to hear their musical remedies to beat the heat. Plus, Greg honors music legend Bo Diddley.
#131 Death Cab for Cutie & Opinions on Usher
May 30 2008
Death Cab for Cutie has gone from indie obscurity to having the #1 selling album in the country. Tune in to hear their discussion with Jim and Greg and performance in front of a live audience.
#130 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Al Green
May 23 2008
With the summer concert season approaching Jim and Greg name the best live albums of all time. They also take a look at Leonard Cohen's latest concert record, Leonard Cohen: Live in London.
#129 Saul Williams & Opinions on Los Campesinos!
May 16 2008
Poet turned musician Saul Williams visits the show to talk about his newsmaking album "The Inevitable Rise and Liberation of Niggy Tardust." Tune in to hear his unique live performance which blends politics with dance beats.
#128 The Rock Doctors' Roots & Opinions on Nine Inch Nails and Flight of the Conchords
May 09 2008
Paging the Rock Doctors! This week on the show Drs. DeRogatis and Kot are called upon to tend to another ailing patient. Tune in to hear if their diagnoses can save this listener's musical life.
#127 Laurie Anderson & Opinions on The Roots and Portishead
May 02 2008
Singer, songwriter, poet and performance artist Laurie Anderson sits down with Jim and Greg to discuss her always ambitious, and often provocative, art and music.
#126 One Note Wonders & Opinions on Madonna
Apr 25 2008
Join Jim and Greg in their celebration of the One Note Wonders of rock and roll. They may only do one thing, but they do it really well.
#125 Ray Davies and Opinions on Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds
Apr 18 2008
One of the most influential singer/songwriters of all time joins Jim and Greg live in the studio. Ray Davies, former frontman for the Kinks, talks about his four decades making music and plays songs off his new album "Working Man's Café."
#124 Tim Fite & Opinions on Disfear and The Breeders
Apr 11 2008
Tim Fite mixes hip hop, folk, rock and blues with a heavy dose of humor and politics. Tune in to hear his conversation with Jim and Greg, plus a sampling of his genre-defying musical style. Jim and Greg will also review the latest from sister act The Breeders.
#123 Digital Music, Audio Fidelity & Opinions on Moby and Destroyer
Apr 04 2008
iTunes, YouTube and MySpace have completely changed how we listen to music. But have they changed what we’re hearing? This week Jim and Greg invite producer Butch Vig and music journalist Bob Gendron to talk about the digital era’s impact on the sound of music.
#122 Steve Earle & Opinions on Gnarls Barkley and The Raconteurs
Mar 28 2008
Jim and Greg welcome the always outspoken and political singer-songwriter Steve Earle. He’s joined by wife Allison Moorer for a conversation and live performance. Then the critics will review the second effort by “Crazy” duo Gnarls Barkley and the Jack White side project, The Raconteurs.
#121 SXSW 2008 & Opinions on R.E.M.
Mar 21 2008
Jim and Greg have returned from another pilgrimage to what many call the live music capital of the world: Austin, TX. Tune in to hear their reports of the annual South by Southwest Music Festival, including what bands to look out for in the year to come.
#120 Butch Vig & Reviews of Beach House and Goldfrapp
Mar 14 2008
Butch Vig, the man behind the sounds of Sonic Youth, Smashing Pumpkins and Nirvana, joins Jim and Greg for a conversation about acting as producer, and therapist, to some of the biggest names in the business. Jim and Greg will also review new albums from Beach House and Goldfrapp.
#119 Bob Mould & Nine Inch Nails Review
Mar 07 2008
Bob Mould founded two of the most influential rock bands of the past 3 decades and pioneered what we know today as “indie rock.” Tune in to hear the Husker Du and Sugar musician talk with Jim and Greg and perform his signature electric guitar.
#118 Winter 2008 Review Roundup
Feb 29 2008
It's been 25 years since fans first purchased Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Now the King of Pop has released a special edition of the landmark album, and Jim and Greg will tell you whether or not to shell out your dough a second time around. They’ll also review the latest from Jackson’s sister Janet, as well as Erykah Badu, Black Mountain and Sia.
#117 Revolver (Classic Album Dissection) & Record Company Victims
Feb 22 2008
This week Jim and Greg will dissect one of the greatest albums of all time--Revolver--and talk with Geof Emerick, the man who engineered it.
#116 Movie Soundtracks
Feb 15 2008
Jim and Greg gear up for the Oscars by discussing the most important part of a movie: the soundtrack. Saturday Night Fever, Purple Rain, The Graduate...Tune in to see what made the cut.
#115 Girl Talk
Feb 08 2008
Gregg Gillis, aka Girl Talk, has become an underground sensation by using other people's music. This week the sample-based collage artist joins Jim and Greg for a discussion about dance parties, biomedicine and running from the law.
#114 Powerhouse Sound & Reviews of Van Hunt and Vampire Weekend
Feb 01 2008
The members of Powerhouse Sound, Ken Vandermark, Nate McBride, Jeff Parker and John Herndon, blend jazz, rock, reggae, punk and funk for a sound that defies boundaries. Tune in to hear their discussion with Jim and Greg, plus a special live performance.
#113 Anthony Bourdain & Songs About Food
Jan 25 2008
Superstar chef, author and TV host Anthony Bourdain joins Jim and Greg for a conversation about two of the best things on earth: Music and Food. What’s the connection between these two great pleasures? Jim and Greg hear from chefs around the country and play their favorite culinary-themed songs.
#112 Unsung Heroes of Rock
Jan 18 2008
Unsung Heroes: In rock and roll, it's usually the biggest personalities who get the most attention. So this week on the show, Jim and Greg will celebrate the little guy and showcase the “Unsung Heroes” of rock.
#111 Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová and Saul Williams Review
Jan 11 2008
Marketa Irglova and Glen Hansard went from struggling musicians to bona fide movie stars after appearing in the hit movie-musical Once. Tune in to hear their discussion with Jim and Greg plus a live musical performance.
#110 The Fiery Furnaces & Lupe Fiasco Review
Jan 04 2008
Brother-sister rock duo The Fiery Furnaces join Jim and Greg for a conversation and live performance. Jim and Greg also talk to Peter Bogdanovich, director of "Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: Runnin' Down a Dream", and review the new album by rapper Lupe Fiasco.
#109 Mixtapes 2007
Dec 28 2007
Jim and Greg ring in the New Year with their annual mixtapes. They've compiled the best songs of 2007 to give you the perfect year-end soundtrack. Plus, Jim and Greg will discuss the controversial legacy of Ike Turner and review the latest album from R&B diva Mary J. Blige.
#108 Christmas Spectacular 2007
Dec 21 2007
The Sound Opinions Christmas Spectacular: Join Jim, Greg and holiday music savant Andy Cirzan for an entire show dedicated to this season's coolest and weirdest tunes.
#107 Best Albums of 2007
Dec 14 2007
It’s the time of year music fans live for: The End. Jim, Greg and music enthusiasts everywhere have made lists for the Best Albums of 2007. Tune in to see how their picks match up with yours.
#106 Tori Amos & Wu-Tang Clan Review
Dec 07 2007
It’s the time of year music fans live for: The End. Jim, Greg and music enthusiasts everywhere have made lists for the Best Albums of 2007. Tune in to see how their picks match up with yours.
#105 New Pornographers & Chris Brown Review
Nov 30 2007
Canadian indie rockers The New Pornographers visit the show for a conversation and live performance. And stay tuned for reviews of new albums by teen pop star Chris Brown and folk rock duo Damon and Naomi.
#104 Buried Treasures
Nov 23 2007
It’s time for another round of Buried Treasures. Jim and Greg have a stockpile of musical gems they’re dying to unearth.
#103 Turkey Shoot 2007
Nov 16 2007
The Annual Sound Opinions Turkey Shoot: Jim and Greg celebrate Thanksgiving the old-fashioned way—by taking out this year’s biggest turkeys. Tune in to hear 2007’s musical disappointments be put out of their misery, and ours.
#102 Spoon & Opinions on Jay Z
Nov 09 2007
Jim and Greg welcome indie rockers Spoon to perform songs from their new album Ga Ga Ga Ga Ga. They’ll also review the latest from hip hop mogul Jay-Z.
#101 Ian Curtis & Joy Division
Nov 02 2007
It's been 30 years since Joy Division hit the Manchester music scene, but with two movies and a number of reissues being released, they are more alive today than ever. This week on the show Jim and Greg will discuss the music and the myth of Ian Curtis and Joy Division.
#100 Robert Wyatt & Opinions on Britney Spears
Oct 26 2007
With the summer concert season approaching Jim and Greg name the best live albums of all time. They also take a look at Leonard Cohen's latest concert record, Leonard Cohen: Live in London.
#99 Opinions on Neil Young & Radiohead
Oct 19 2007
This week Jim and Greg review records from two sets of musicians who refuse to play by the rules: Neil Young and Radiohead. Tune in to hear how the albums measure up on the Sound Opinions Buy It, Burn It, Trash It rating scale.
#98 John Cale & Opinions on Annie Lennox
Oct 12 2007
Jim and Greg welcome musician, producer and Velvet Underground founder John Cale for a conversation and live acoustic performance.
#97 The Replacements' Let It Be (Classic Album Dissection) & Opinions on Steve Earle
Oct 05 2007
It's time for another Sound Opinions Classic Album Dissection. This time Jim and Greg discuss The Replacements’ masterpiece “Let It Be” with Jim Walsh, author of “The Replacements: All Over But the Shouting.”
#96 Fall 2007 Review Roundup
Sep 28 2007
It's a classic Sound Opinions debate: To Springsteen or not to Springsteen. This week on the show Jim and Greg will continue that discussion with a review of Bruce Springsteen’s latest album, "Magic". Then they’ll sound off on other big fall releases from PJ Harvey and Joni Mitchell.
#95 Midlake & Opinions on Eddie Vedder
Sep 21 2007
A formerly buried treasure gets unearthed live on the show. Denton, TX quintet Midlake joins Jim and Greg for an interview and live performance. Then, stay tuned for their review of Pearl Jam front man Eddie Vedder's first solo record.
#94 The Flaming Lips
Sep 14 2007
Oklahoma's Fabulous Freaks are coming to Sound Opinions! Wayne Coyne and Steven Drozd of the Flaming Lips join Jim and Greg for a rare conversation about how the twenty-five year music veterans have stayed so weird for so long.
#93 Kanye West vs. 50 Cent
Sep 07 2007
It's the first great rock battle of the year: Kanye West vs. 50 Cent. Both rappers have new albums coming out on the same day, so Jim and Greg will pit the hip hop heavyweights up against one another to see who comes out on top.
#92 Track One, Side One
Aug 31 2007
It’s a term as old as the album itself: Track One, Side One. This week Jim and Greg release their inner music geek to tackle the question of what are the best Lead-Off Tracks in rock history. Tune in to hear their picks, as well as some of yours.
#91 Roky Erickson
Aug 24 2007
Roky Erickson, leader of the 13th Floor Elevators, is one of the most influential and tragic figures in rock music. This week on the show Jim and Greg will dissect the life and career of the psychedelic music legend and talk with Keven McAlester, the director of the Roky Erickson film "You're Gonna Miss Me."
#90 The Rock Doctors Prescribe Hip-Hop & Opinions on The New Pornographers and M.I.A.
Aug 17 2007
Drs. Kot and DeRogatis, MD are back for another Rock Doctors consultation. Tune in to hear their prescriptions for better musical health. Then, stay tuned for reviews of new albums from melodic indie-rockers The New Pornographers and avant-pop artist M.I.A.
#89 The Besnard Lakes & Opinions on Lollapalooza 2007
Aug 10 2007
This week on Sound Opinions, the next great indie rock band out of Canada: The Besnard Lakes joins Jim and Greg live in the studio. Jim and Greg will also review last weekend's Lollapalooza Festival, and Jim drops a track into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#88 The Effigies & Opinions on Common
Aug 03 2007
Jim and Greg have the groundbreaking Chicago punk band The Effigies live in the studio. Then they'll review the new album from rapper Common, and Greg will add a track to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#87 Buried Treasures & Opinions on Grinderman
Jul 27 2007
There's simply too much good music out there that goes unheard. So, this week on the show Jim and Greg will unearth some Buried Treasures to add to your collection of musical gems.
#86 Yoko Ono & Opinions on Prince
Jul 20 2007
Yoko Ono, once the most vilified woman in rock music, has recently become an underground heroine. This week on the show Jim and Greg will examine the strange musical path of Yoko Ono and talk to the legendary figure herself.
#85 Arcade Fire
Jul 13 2007
This week: Arcade Fire. Jim and Greg sit down with members of this anthemic rock band for a candid conversation about how an indie group from Montreal took the music industry by storm.
#84 Summer 2007 Review Roundup
Jul 06 2007
The gloves are off, and the hosts have stepped into the ring for another round of Kot vs. DeRogatis music reviews. Tune in to hear them discuss new summer releases from Spoon, Art Brut and T.I., plus many more.
#83 Peter Bjorn & John
Jun 29 2007
This week on the show Swedish trio Peter Bjorn & John join Jim, Greg and a live studio audience for an interview and special acoustic performance. Jim and Greg have deemed the band's hit track "Young Folks" one of the greatest "Whistling Songs" in pop music. So, in honor of their visit, the hosts will discuss other great moments in rock whistling.
#82 Chuck D, Don Imus Controversy, & White Stripes Review
Jun 22 2007
Ever since Don Imus uttered those controversial words on his radio show, hip hop has been feeling the heat. To make sense of recent debates about the genre, Jim and Greg will talk with rapper Chuck D and a panel of hip hop insiders about language, race, gender, and of course, music.
#81 The Best of 2007... So Far
Jun 15 2007
The Best of 2007 (So Far): While most critics make their best-of lists at the end of the year, Jim and Greg figure—why wait? Tune in this week to hear which albums are already big contenders.
#80 The Decemberists & Paul McCartney Review
Jun 08 2007
Colin Meloy and the members of The Decemberists visit the show for a lively conversation and performance. Also, tune in for a review of the latest from Paul McCartney.
#79 Cover Songs
Jun 01 2007
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery...or so they say. This week on Sound Opinions Jim and Greg will discuss rock music's form of imitation: the cover song. Tune in to hear the hosts' picks for best cover songs, as well as some of yours. Then, they'll review new cover albums from Patti Smith and Bryan Ferry.
#78 Parts & Labor and R. Kelly Review
May 25 2007
This week on Sound Opinions: our loudest, most rocking guests to date. Brooklyn trio Parts & Labor visit the show and blow Jim and Greg away with their unique experimental rock. Then stay tuned for a review of the new album by Chicago R&B king R. Kelly.
#77 Wilco & Rush Review
May 18 2007
This week on Sound Opinions Jim and Greg are joined by one of the most important bands of this generation: Wilco. The alt-country pioneers/avant-garde rockers join Jim and Greg for an interview and performance just in time for the release of their highly anticipated new album, Sky Blue Sky.
#76 The Rock Doctors Family Clinic & Wilco Review
May 11 2007
The rock doctors are back in session, and this time they have their greatest challenge to date: not just one patient, but an entire family of five. Jim and Greg will help another listener in need by prescribing new music that will not only please his ears, but also meet the approval of his four opinionated kids.
#75 Summer 2007 Review Roundup
May 04 2007
With every new album comes another opportunity for Jim and Greg to head to head. Tune in this week as they debate the merits of new releases from Bjork, Mavis Staples, and the Arctic Monkeys, plus many more.
#74 Tom Morello & Avril Lavigne Review
Apr 27 2007
Part social activist, part guitar god, Tom Morello is one of rock's most interesting figures. The Rage Against the Machine guitarist has unplugged, gone solo and donned a new guise he's calling The Nightwatchman. Tune in to hear his interview with Jim and Greg and his modern take on protest music.
#73 Producer Joe Boyd & Bright Eyes Review
Apr 20 2007
Record producer and writer Joe Boyd, the man behind the sounds of Pink Floyd,Nick Drake and Fairport Convention, visits the show this week. And, tune in to hear Jim and Greg review of the latest release from Omaha emo rockers Bright Eyes and ponder the strange pop phenomenon known as "Sanjaya."
#72 Booker T. Jones & Nine Inch Nails Review
Apr 13 2007
Soul legend Booker T. Jones of Booker T and the MG's is this week's guest on Sound Opinions. Tune in to hear Jim and Greg talk to the man behind the famous Stax Records sound in an interview taped live at this year's SXSW Music Conference. Then, hear their takes on the latest releases from Nine Inch Nails and Kings of Leon.
#71 Neko Case & Timbaland Review
Apr 06 2007
One of rock's greatest voices belongs to none other than Neko Case, this week's guest on Sound Opinions. The singer/songwriter takes a break from her recent tour to talk with Jim and Greg and perform some of her signature country-soul songs. Then stay tuned for a review of the new solo album from famed hitmaker Timbaland.
#70 Robert Schneider & Apples in Stereo Review
Mar 30 2007
This week Jim and Greg enter into the psychedelic world of Elephant Six. This musical collective had humble beginnings in a small town in rural Louisiana, but has gone on to produce some of the most innovative pop and rock music ever. Jim and Greg will highlight some of their favorite songs from bands like Neutral Milk Hotel and Olivia Tremor Control, and talk with Elephant Six founder and Apples in Stereo front man Robert Schneider.
#69 SXSW '07
Mar 23 2007
What Sundance is to movies, SXSW is to music. Jim and Greg are back from the annual Austin, TX music festival with the lowdown on what underground bands you should look out for in the year to come.
#68 Spring 2007 Review Roundup
Mar 16 2007
The ice is starting to thaw, and with winter on its way out, a new crop of spring albums is on its way in. Jim and Greg will review new releases from LCD Soundsystem, Modest Mouse and Air, plus many more.
#67 Desert Island Jukebox Special
Mar 09 2007
As the hosts of Sound Opinions, Jim and Greg often choose a track they can't live without to drop into the Desert Island Jukebox. But, they were also anxious to hear what some of their favorite musical guests would take with them to a deserted island. Tune in this week to hear DIJ picks from artists like Lupe Fiasco, Robyn Hitchcock and Thom Yorke.
#66 Ron Asheton & Arcade Fire Review
Mar 02 2007
It has been over 3 decades since Iggy Pop and The Stooges last unleashed their "Raw Power." Now the protopunk rockers are back with a brand new album. Jim and Greg will talk about the band's history with The Stooges' co-founder, Ron Asheton, and review their latest effort. Then they'll discuss the much-anticipated sophomore release from Canadian indie rockers The Arcade Fire.
#65 Lily Allen
Feb 23 2007
British import Lily Allen visits the show this week. Tune in to sample her sweet and salty musical concoction and hear how she went from MySpace.com to a full-blown American invasion.
#64 Rocket to Russia (Classic Album Dissection) & Lucinda Williams Review
Feb 16 2007
It's time for Jim and Greg to conduct another classic album dissection. This week they'll focus on "Rocket to Russia" by The Ramones and discuss the making of the album and its lasting influence with drummer and co-producer, Tommy Ramone. Then, stay tuned for a review of the latest alt-country release from Lucinda Williams.
#63 Valentine's Day Live with Robbie & Donna Fulks
Feb 09 2007
Jim and Greg love to love. And this week on the show they celebrate Valentine's Day by discussing some of the greatest love, lust, and heartbreak songs in rock and roll. The hosts are joined by alt-country troubadour Robbie Fulks, with his own true love Donna Fulks, as well as a live studio audience.
#62 Lupe Fiasco & Reviews of Norah Jones and Clap Your Hands Say Yeah Reviews
Feb 02 2007
Rising rap star and Grammy nominee Lupe Fiasco joins Jim and Greg for a conversation and performance. Then the critics tackle new albums by chart-topping pop singer Norah Jones and indie rock phenoms Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, and Greg adds a track to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#61 The Rock Doctors & Opinions on The Shins
Jan 26 2007
Rock Doctors: It's time to help another listener in need. Drs. Kot and DeRogatis consult with another ailing patient and give their rock and roll prescriptions. Then, stay tuned for reviews of new albums by John Mellencamp, The Shins and The Good, the Bad and the Queen.
#60 Buried Treasures
Jan 19 2007
As rock critics, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot get tons of albums every week, most of which aren’t worth your time. But, beneath every pile of rubbish is an undiscovered gem. This week on the show, Jim and Greg will unearth these buried treasures and give you some new music for the new year.
#59 Robyn Hitchcock, Peter Buck, and Scott McCaughey
Jan 12 2007
Jim and Greg welcome an all-star lineup this week. Robyn Hitchcock and special guests Peter Buck and Scott McCaughey of REM and the Venus 3 come by the studio to talk music and play some tunes. Then Jim and Greg will get your "sound opinions" on the best albums of 2006.
#58 Buddy Guy & Gwen Stefani Review
Jan 05 2007
Blues legend Buddy Guy is Sound Opinions' first guest of the New Year. Tune in to hear him perform and talk with Jim and Greg about his illustrious career.
#57 Secret Machines & James Brown Tribute
Dec 30 2006
As 2006 comes to a close, Jim and Greg pay tribute to one of music's biggest losses: James Brown. They'll also give their annual "Soopie Awards" and welcome rock trio The Secret Machines for a rare acoustic performance.
#56 Jim & Greg's Best of 2006 Mixtapes
Dec 23 2006
As every music fan knows, making the perfect mixtape is no easy task. Jim and Greg have thought long and hard about the art of mix-making, and this week on the show, they'll play their compilations of the best songs of 2006.
#55 Christmas Music Spectacular 2006
Dec 16 2006
Ho Ho Ho! It's the Sound Opinions annual Christmas Music Spectacular with the show's official Kris Kringle, Andy Cirzan. Mr. Cirzan is back with another collection of weird, wacky, and ever-so-merry holiday songs for your listening pleasure.
#54 Best of 2006
Dec 09 2006
They've made their list. They've checked it twice. And this week on Sound Opinions listeners will find out who exactly has been nice. Jim and Greg have tallied up their favorite albums of 2006, so tune in to find out who made the cut.
#53 Andy Summers & Reviews of The Clipse and The Deftones
Dec 02 2006
This week Jim and Greg are joined by former Police guitarist, and now author, Andy Summers. They'll also review new albums by hip hop duo The Clipse and rap-metal band The Deftones.
#52 Turkey Shoot 2006 & Reviews of Jay-Z and Tom Waits
Nov 25 2006
It's Turkey time! This week Jim and Greg will celebrate Thanksgiving with their annual "Turkey Shoot." The two critics will name some of the biggest musical disappointments of the year and bury them for good. They'll also review the first post-retirement album from hip hop mogul Jay-Z and make holiday gift suggestions for the music lover in your life.
#51 Pere Ubu & Reviews of The Game and Bert Jansch
Nov 18 2006
Punk progenitors Pere Ubu join Jim and Greg in the studio for an interview and full-blown rock performance. Then, stay tuned for reviews of albums by chart-topping rapper The Game and British folk legend Bert Jansch.
#50 DJ Shadow & Reviews of Lindsey Buckingham and Lady Sovereign
Nov 11 2006
Hip Hop pioneer DJ Shadow sits down with Jim and Greg for a truly enlightening conversation. Then, our hosts will discuss the latest solo release from Fleetwood Mac mastermind Lindsey Buckingham, as well as the major label debut from up-and-coming British rapper Lady Sovereign.
#49 Moby & Reviews of John Legend and My Chemical Romance
Nov 04 2006
One of Jim and Greg's favorite guests, Moby, visits the show this week. Plus, the critics will review the latest efforts from R&B singer John Legend and pop-punk band My Chemical Romance.
#48 First Six Months Retrospective
Oct 28 2006
Jim and Greg compile and re-broadcast songs and interviews from the show's first 6 months. Performers featured include John Cale, Colin Meloy, Jenny Lewis, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, Feist, and Art Brut.
#47 Funeral Songs & Goth Rock
Oct 21 2006
With Halloween just around the corner, Jim and Greg decided to break out the black eyeliner and take a tour of the labyrinthian underground of Goth Rock. Plus, tune in to hear a morbid discussion of the best songs to play at your funeral.
#46 Fall 2006 Review Roundup
Oct 14 2006
This week Jim and Greg will take a look at a whole slew of new fall releases including albums from the Scissor Sisters, the Hold Steady, The Decemberists and Janet Jackson.
#45 Songs in the Key of Life (Classic Album Dissection) & Reviews of Beck and The Killers
Oct 07 2006
Stevie Wonder's album Songs in the Key of Life recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. This week Jim and Greg will conduct a "Classic Album Dissection" on the landmark record and talk to some of the people who helped make it happen. Plus, tune in for reviews of the latest releases from Beck and The Killers.
#44 The Rock Doctors & Reviews of Mastodon and DJ Shadow
Sep 30 2006
This week the doctors are back in. Rock MDs Jim and Greg diagnose yet another ailing patient and prescribe some musical cures. Plus reviews of new albums from DJ Shadow and hardcore metal act Mastodon and a Desert Island Jukebox pick from Greg.
#43 Touch & Go Records and Reviews of Yo La Tengo and Lupe Fiasco
Sep 23 2006
This week Jim and Greg discuss the 25 year history of one of music's best independent labels - Touch and Go Records. They'll also review new records from Yo La Tengo and Lupe Fiasco.
#42 Glenn Kotche & Justin Timberlake Review
Sep 16 2006
This week Jim and Greg welcome Glenn Kotche. The percussionist, best known as the drummer for Wilco, stops by to perform and joins Jim and Greg in a discussion on the state of modern drumming. Plus, tune in for the latest music news and a review of the new album by Justin Timberlake.
#41 Guilty Pleasures
Sep 09 2006
Even rock critics have guilty pleasures, and this week Jim and Greg come clean about theirs. They'll confess some of their biggest musical sins and hear some of yours.
#40 Gov't Mule & Reviews of Beyoncé and TV on the Radio
Sep 02 2006
Gov't Mule, one of the hardest rocking jam bands around, joins Jim and Greg for a performance and conversation. Plus, the latest music news, reviews and a Desert Island Jukebox pick.
#39 Summer 2006 Review Roundup
Aug 26 2006
Summer is coming to an end, but a big season of music is just beginning. Jim and Greg will take a look at some upcoming new releases, including the latest from Bob Dylan, Kelis and The Roots.
#38 Mission of Burma & Reviews of Outkast and Christina Aguilera
Aug 19 2006
Post-punk pioneers Mission of Burma join Jim and Greg live in the studio. The band will talk about their decision to reunite after 20 years and play some new tracks and old favorites. Then, the critics will review the highly anticipated releases from hip hop duo Outkast and pop queen Christina Aguilera.
#37 Jason Lytle of Grandaddy
Aug 12 2006
Grandaddy mastermind Jason Lytle visits the show to talk about the band's final days and what's in store for his future. Plus, he performs live in the studio. Jim and Greg will also discuss the latest music news and reviews and a pop a track into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#36 MTV's 25th Anniversary & Reviews of Slayer and White Whale
Aug 05 2006
This week MTV celebrates its 25th anniversary, so Jim and Greg will welcome some industry experts and music fans to discuss the station's impact on the music industry. Plus, they'll review albums by death metal rockers Slayer and indie up-and-comers White Whale.
#35 The BellRays & Reviews of Tom Petty and Pharrell
Jul 29 2006
California garage rockers The Bellrays stop by the studio for a performance and conversation. Plus, Jim and Greg review the latest release from rock vet Tom Petty and the first solo effort from Neptunes producer Pharrell.
#34 The Rock Doctors treat Peter Sagal
Jul 22 2006
This week on Sound Opinions, the doctors are in. Jim and Greg diagnose some common musical problems and provide their rock and roll cures. Plus, they'll review the latest album from the always irreverent pop singer Peaches, and Greg adds a track to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#33 Rhymefest & Thom Yorke Review
Jul 15 2006
This week on the show Jim and Greg welcome a hip hop star on the rise--Rhymefest. Plus, they'll review the new record from Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke and take a look at the life and times of Syd Barrett.
#32 Jon Brion & Johnny Cash Review
Jul 08 2006
This week Sound Opinions welcomes the man behind the music of Kanye West, Aimee Mann, Fiona Apple and many of your favorite movie soundtracks. Jon Brion joins Jim and Greg in the studio for a conversation and performance. Plus the critics will review one of the final releases from country legend Johnny Cash.
#31 The Best of (The First Half of) 2006
Jul 01 2006
The Best Albums of 2006...so far. The year is almost halfway through, so this week Jim and Greg will run down the records that are currently in the running to making the top ten.
#30 Radiohead
Jun 24 2006
Radiohead's Thom Yorke and Jonny Greenwood come into the studio for a 40+ minute conversation with Jim and Greg.
#29 Summer Songs & Reviews of AFI and Sonic Youth
Jun 17 2006
Summer is finally here, and in honor of these lazy, hazy days, Jim and Greg will run down their favorite songs for the season. Plus, they'll hear some of your suggestions and review the new records from chart-toppers AFI and noise-rock vets Sonic Youth.
#28 Buried Treasures
Jun 10 2006
It's time again for one of Jim and Greg's favorite shows: Buried Treasures They'll unearth some hidden musical gems that deserve your attention.
#27 Rock En Español & Reviews of Elvis Costello and The Coup
Jun 03 2006
This week Jim and Greg take a musical tour of Latin America with Ernesto Lechner, author of Rock en Espanol: The Latin Alternative Rock Explosion. Plus they'll review records by Elvis Costello and The Coup.
#26 Common & Reviews Mission of Burma and the Dixie Chicks
May 27 2006
Highly acclaimed rapper Common returns to his hometown to visit with Jim and Greg. Tune in for an interview and Sound Opinions' first ever live freestyle. Plus, they'll review the new releases from post-punk pioneers Mission of Burma and the ever-controversial Dixie Chicks.
#25 'Revolver' Classic Album Dissection & The Raconteurs Review
May 20 2006
This year marks the 40th anniversary of one of the greatest albums of all time--Revolver. Jim and Greg will dissect this Beatles masterpiece and talk with the man who engineered it. Plus, they'll review albums from singer/songwriter T-Bone Burnett and indie rock supergroup The Raconteurs.
#24 Art Brut & Reviews of Tool and Grandaddy
May 13 2006
This Saturday night on Sound Opinions British imports Art Brut take a break from their first US tour to visit the show. Also, Jim and Greg review the latest releases from progressive metal band Tool and indie rockers Grandaddy.
#23 Spotlight on Producers
May 06 2006
This week Jim and Greg look at some of the most recent musical collaborations. They will review new albums from The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Paul Simon, Alejandro Escovedo and recent phenomenon Gnarls Barkley, all featuring some impressive men behind the scenes. Plus, the hosts will discuss the latest music news and a track to the Desert Island Jukebox.
#22 Clap Your Hands Say Yeah & Reviews of Pearl Jam and Bruce Springsteen
Apr 29 2006
Indie rock phenoms Clap Your Hands Say Yeah visit the show for a live performance and interview. Jim and Greg also take a look at Neil Young's recent protest effort, and review the latest releases from rock veterans Pearl Jam and Bruce Springsteen.
#21 Steve Wynn & Reviews of The Streets and Van Hunt
Apr 22 2006
Former Dream Syndicate frontman Steve Wynn visits the show for a live performance and interview. Plus, Jim and Greg review new albums from The Streets and Van Hunt.
#20 Spring 2006 Review Roundup
Apr 15 2006
This week on Sound Opinions: Review-a-Palooza. Jim and Greg will look at some of the best and worst albums to be released this Spring including the new releases from the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Morrissey, The Secret Machines and Ghostface Killah.
#19 Jenny Lewis & Reviews of Prince and The Flaming Lips
Apr 08 2006
This week Jim and Greg get a visit from one of the reigning indie pop queens—Jenny Lewis. Plus they’ll review the new albums from Prince and the Flaming Lips and pop a quarter into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#18 SXSW 2006
Apr 01 2006
This week Jim and Greg will bring Austin to Chicago. The rock critics have returned from the SXSW Music Festival to tell you about some of the best new music you'll be hearing about in the year to come.
#17 Songs About Money
Mar 25 2006
This week on Sound Opinions, a very timely theme: Jim and Greg play their favorite songs about money. It’s a show honoring public radio's favorite season—the spring pledge drive.
#16 Black Rebel Motorcycle Club & Buried Treasures
Mar 18 2006
Buried Treasures: Jim and Greg dig deep to uncover some music you haven't heard, but definitely should. Plus, the Black Rebel Motorcycle Club joins them in the studio for a special live performance.
#15 A History of the Hip Hop Generation & Reviews of David Gilmour and Goldfrapp
Mar 11 2006
This week on Sound Opinions, Jim and Greg talk with Jeff Chang, author of Can't Stop Won't Stop: A History of the Hip Hop Generation, about the present and future states of hip hop. They'll also review the new albums by Pink Floyd alum David Gilmour and electro-pop duo Goldfrapp.
#14 Roger Ebert & Reviews of Neko Case and Jaheim
Mar 04 2006
Jim and Greg welcome Roger Ebert for a pre-Oscar bash. The three critics will discuss some of the best and worst music movies ever made, and Roger shares his rock and roll roots. Also, tune in for a review of the latest solo album from Chicago's own alt-country queen, Neko Case.
#13 Feist and Beauty & the Beast Duets
Feb 25 2006
On this week's episode of Sound Opinions, Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot sit down with indie rock chanteuse, Feist. Jim and Greg also review the new duet record by Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan and look back at some of rock's other great duet performances.
#12 Lawrence Lessig & Reviews of Ray Davies and Belle & Sebastian
Feb 18 2006
Sound Opinions welcomes Lawrence Lessig, the pre-eminent expert in copyright and cyber-law, to discuss music in the digital age. In addition, Jim and Greg review the new albums from Belle and Sebastian and former Kinks frontman Ray Davies.
#11 Love Stinks
Feb 11 2006
Love Stinks: Sound Opinions celebrates Valentine's Day's...rock and roll style. Jim and Greg run down their favorite anti-love songs and hear some listeners' picks.
#10 Shelved Albums
Feb 04 2006
The Man Killed Our Music: This week on Sound Opinions Jim and Greg take look at albums by major artists which the record companies wouldn't release. Plus, they'll discuss the latest music news and review the hugely successful debut album from The Arctic Monkeys.
#9 Colin Meloy & Reviews of Cat Power and Test Icicles
Jan 28 2006
This week on Sound Opinions Jim and Greg get a visit from Decemberists frontman Colin Meloy. He talks with them about his solo tour and his love of the Fairport Convention. Our hosts also review the new album from Cat Power, and Greg pops a quarter into the Desert Island Jukebox.
#8 Jon Langford & Jenny Lewis Review
Jan 21 2006
This week on Sound Opinions, Jim and Greg sit down with Chicago-based musician Jon Langford to talk about his new album and recent exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Also, reviews of the new albums from rising indie-popsters Jenny Lewis and The Test Icicles.
#7 Donovan & Robert Pollard Review
Jan 14 2006
This week on Sound Opinions, the hurdy gurdy man himself, Donovan, comes in and chats with Jim and Greg, and puts down a few of his classic songs acoustically. Plus a review of former Guided by Voices lead singer, Robert Pollard's solo debut, and a DIJ from Greg Kot.
#6 Julian Casablancas & Mary J. Blige Review
Jan 07 2006
This week on Sound Opinions, we sit down with the lead singer of the Strokes, Julian Casablancas. Jim and Greg will review their new record, "First Impressions of Earth", and review reigning R&B queen Mary J. Blige's new record.
#5 Billy Gibbons & Listeners' Picks of 2005
Dec 31 2005
This week on Sound Opinions, Jim and Greg sit down with the surprisingly complex lead singer of ZZ Top, Billy Gibbons. Plus Jim and Greg discuss YOUR favorite albums of the year.
#4 Christmas with Andy Cirzan
Dec 24 2005
He's Back! Andy Cirzan returns to Sound Opinions for his annual Christmas music spectacular. Andy will play the coolest and weirdest music you have ever heard. It's the perfect soundtrack to all your awkward family dinners.
#3 Album Box Set Gift Guide
Dec 17 2005
This week Sound Opinions offers its annual gift-giving guide. Jim and Greg will run down their picks for box sets that are sure to please, and those that are sure to be re-gifted.
#2 Top 10 Albums of 2005
Dec 10 2005
This week on Sound Opinions on Chicago Public Radio, Jim and Greg get into one of their favorite shows: LISTS! They run down their top ten albums released in 2005.
#1 John Cale & Opinions on Madonna and System of a Down
Dec 03 2005
Sound Opinions on Chicago Public Radio begins with Jim and Greg talking with the founding member of the Velvet Underground, John Cale, as well as reviewing records from Madonna and a System of a Down.