Sound Opinions - podcast cover

Sound Opinions

WBEZ Chicagoart19.com
Take two nationally respected rock critics, the latest music news, personal commentary, and exclusive interviews and performances, add a huge pile of records old and new, and the result is Sound Opinions, where people who love music can come together.

Episodes

Greg's Hall of Fame

In this bonus episode, Greg discusses the recent Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction of Warren Zevon, an artist he believes was long overdue. The hosts share their generally cynical views on the Hall itself before diving into an appreciation of Zevon's life and work, highlighting his unflinching honesty and outlaw persona reflected in his tragic yet humorous songs.

May 21, 20259 min

Busking & Opinions on Tunde Adebimpe

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with author Cary Baker about the musical tradition of street performance, also known as busking. The hosts also review the solo album from TV On The Radio lead singer Tunde Adebimpe and hear feedback from listeners on recent episodes. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Se...

May 16, 202551 minEp. 1016

A Companion Tribute to Our David Thomas Farewell

Jim reflects on the passing of Pere Ubu member David Thomas, then pays tribute to Peter Loeffner. He discusses Loeffner's struggles with addiction and influence on Lester Bangs, leading into a play of Loeffner's song, 'Baudelaire'. The episode explores themes of nihilism versus embracing life and light.

May 14, 20258 min

Pere Ubu, Rocket from the Tombs & the Music of David Thomas

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot pay tribute to the late singer, songwriter and musician David Thomas. They do a deep dive on his career and life, discussing his music with Pere Ubu and Rocket from the Tombs. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mo...

May 09, 202551 minEp. 1015

A Compilation for the Stoner Rock Crowd

In this bonus episode, Greg shares a track he discovered from the long-running Brown Acid stoner rock compilation series—a labor of love from Permanent Records and Riding Easy Records. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/s...

May 07, 20257 min

A Gold Rush of New Buried Treasures

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share new music they're digging that flies under the mainstream radar, buried treasures! They also hear buried treasure picks from the production staff. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/...

May 02, 202550 minEp. 1014

A Deep Cut Correction from Two Sharp Listeners

Thanks to a couple of listener, Jim realizes he credited the wrong orchestra on a recent show. But the mistake sparks a deeper appreciation for the band he mentioned by accident, and he adds one of their songs to the Desert Island Jukebox. Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:&nbsp...

Apr 30, 20258 min

Emmylou Harris, Rosanne Cash & In-Law Country

Musicians like Emmylou Harris, Rosanne Cash, Guy Clark and others changed the scope of country music forever. Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with author Geoffrey Himes about the artists of the movement he calls “in-law country.” They also hear from some listeners. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Sen...

Apr 25, 202550 minEp. 1013

When Synth-Pop Went Silly

In this bonus episode, Greg shares a song by an 80s synth-pop band that set themselves apart with their great sense of humor. Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/soundops See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and...

Apr 23, 20259 min

Reviews of Lucy Dacus, Saba & No I.D., Mekons, etc. Plus RIP Clem Burke & Dave Allen

As spring is springing, the volume of new albums coming out is hard to keep up with. This week hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot dig out from “music mountain” by reviewing new albums from Lucy Dacus, Saba and No ID, Mekons and Perfume Genius. They also pay tribute to Clem Burke of Blondie and Dave Allen of Gang of Four. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a dona...

Apr 18, 202550 minEp. 1012

A Song that Stalked Jim Through the Algorithm

Jim defends Nina Hagen's controversial album, "NunSexMonkRock," and adds the song "Future is Now" to the Desert Island Jukebox. He discusses Hagen's unique background, musical style, and the album's production, despite its initial poor reception, highlighting its distinctive 1982 new wave sound and Hagen's overall impact.

Apr 16, 20259 min

25th Anniversary of Common's Like Water for Chocolate

Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot revisit Common's 'Like Water for Chocolate' on its 25th anniversary, featuring an unearthed 2000 interview with Common. They discuss his early career, the album's themes, and its influence on hip-hop and neo-soul. The hosts also dissect favorite tracks and reflect on the album's lasting legacy.

Apr 11, 202551 minEp. 1011

More Mike Campbell!

Jim and Greg continue their conversation with Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. They talk about performing in the Super Bowl Half Time show, working with Don Henley and Stevie Nicks and the future of the Heartbreakers. Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit...

Apr 09, 202511 min

Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot interview Mike Campbell about his autobiography, delving into his early influences, the formation of Mudcrutch and the Heartbreakers, and the struggles and triumphs of recording iconic albums. Campbell shares insights into his songwriting partnership with Tom Petty, his experiences with Bob Dylan and George Harrison, and the challenges of navigating band dynamics and personal health amidst rock and roll's excesses. He reflects on Petty's leadership and the lasting impact of 'American Girl'.

Apr 04, 202551 minEp. 1010

A Key Band of the '80s Indie Rock Scene

Greg shares a track from the band Scrawl, inspired by a conversation with Jenny Toomey and Kristen Thompson from the band Tsunami. He discusses Scrawl's history, their struggles with Rough Trade Records, and their impactful EP 'Bloodsucker' on Simple Machines. Jim and Greg then discuss curating a compilation album of underrated songs from the late 80s to early 90s.

Apr 02, 20257 min

Women in Ska & Opinions on Throwing Muses

Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot review Throwing Muses' new album, Moonlight Concessions, highlighting Kristen Hirsch's unique songwriting and vocal style, then interview Heather Augustyn about her book Rude Girls, discussing the underappreciated women of the Two-Tone ska movement, including Pauline Black, Rhoda Dakar, and the all-female band, The Body Snatchers, while also exploring the cultural impact of ska and its political roots in the UK.

Mar 28, 202551 minEp. 1009

RIP Brian James of the Damned

Jim pays tribute to Brian James, the guitarist for The Damned, discussing his influence and career. He highlights James's early work with The Damned, his impact on punk rock, and his later projects like Lords of the New Church. The episode features the song "New Rose" as a testament to James's talent and pioneering spirit.

Mar 26, 20258 min

Music & Nostalgia Plus Opinions on Bartees Strange & Sasami

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot speak with author David Rowell about his new book, The Endless Refrain: Memory, Nostalgia, and the Threat to New Music. The hosts also review the new albums by Bartees Strange and Sasami. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah &n...

Mar 21, 202551 minEp. 1008

RIP Roberta Flack

In this bonus episode, Greg pays tribute to the great American singer Roberta Flack who died on February 24, 2025 at the age of 88. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/soundops See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/priva...

Mar 19, 20257 min

RIP David Johansen of New York Dolls - Deep Dive & Interview with David

This week, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot pay tribute to the late, great David Johansen of the New York Dolls and solo career fame, covering as much of his remarkable body of work as they could fit into one episode. They also revisit their interview with David Johansen from 2001. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/...

Mar 14, 202550 minEp. 1007

RIP Angie Stone

Jim DeRogatis pays tribute to Angie Stone, highlighting her pioneering role in hip-hop and neo-soul. The conversation explores her early career with The Sequence, her solo success, and her unique blending of sensuality and empowerment in her music, focusing on her album Mahogany Soul. They discuss her versatility and impact, lamenting her underappreciation and premature passing.

Mar 12, 20257 min

Sly and the Family Stone & Opinions on Horsegirl

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot review Sly Stone's documentary and memoir and revisit an interview with Family Stone members Jerry Martini and Cynthia Robinson. They also review the new album from Chicago indie rockers Horsegirl. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/...

Mar 07, 202547 minEp. 1006

RIP Brenton Wood

In this bonus episode, Greg pays tribute to little-known soul singer Brenton Wood who died on January 3, 2025 at the age of 83. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/soundops See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy a...

Mar 05, 20258 min

Buried Treasures (New Music!) & RIP Jerry Butler

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share new music they're digging that flies under the mainstream radar, buried treasures! They also pay tribute to singer-songwriter Jerry Butler. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/soundop...

Feb 28, 202551 minEp. 1005

RIP Marianne Faithfull

In this bonus episode, Jim pays tribute to English singer Marianne Faithfull who died on January 30, 2025 at the age of 78. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/soundops See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and C...

Feb 26, 202514 min

Drinking Songs & Opinions on Sharon Van Etten

Throughout music history and across genres, artists have made drinking songs. From buoyant and rowdy to reflective and moody, hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot share some of their favorites. They also review the new album from Sharon Van Etten. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:&...

Feb 21, 202551 minEp. 1004

More Songs From Fruit Bats

In this bonus episode, Eric Johnson performs "Humbug Mountain Song" and "The Rock Doc" live at the Goose Island Salt Shed Pub. He also shares his Desert Island Jukebox pick with Jim and Greg. Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah   Mobile:  sayhi.chat/soundops Join our Facebook Group:  https://...

Feb 19, 202516 min

Fruit Bats Live & Opinions on Lambrini Girls

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot welcome Eric Johnson of long-running indie folk band Fruit Bats for an interview and performance. The hosts also review the debut album from punk shock activists, Lambrini Girls. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop:  bit.ly/2RyD5Ah  &nbsp...

Feb 14, 202551 minEp. 1003

Onstage Magic, Offstage Tension

In this bonus episode, Greg pays tribute to Sam Moore of the iconic soul duo Sam & Dave. Moore died on January 10, 2025 at age 89. Become a Patreon member to hear the full episode: https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter: https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal: https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice Memo: Desktop: bit.ly/2RyD5Ah Mobile: sayhi.chat/soundops Join our Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/3sivr9T See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Priva...

Feb 12, 20255 min

Robyn Hitchcock Returns & Opinions on SZA

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot welcome Robyn Hitchcock back to Sound Opinions to discuss the singer-songwriter's book, 1967: How I Got There and Why I Never Left, and the accompanying album, 1967: Vacations in the Past. Plus, the hosts review the new album from SZA. Join our Facebook Group:  https://bit.ly/3sivr9T Become a member on Patreon:  https://bit.ly/3slWZvc Sign up for our newsletter:  https://bit.ly/3eEvRnG Make a donation via PayPal:  https://bit.ly/3dmt9lU Send u...

Feb 07, 202551 minEp. 1002
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