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

RIP Sly Stone

Hosts Jim and Greg honor the late Sly Stone by exploring his groundbreaking career, innovative music, and the impact of his mixed-race, mixed-gender band. They review Questlove's documentary and Sly's memoir, and revisit a fascinating interview with band members Jerry Martini and Cynthia Robinson, offering insights into the group's dynamics and challenges.

Jun 13, 202551 minEp. 1020

2025 Sound Opinions Writing Prize Winners

In this bonus podcast, Jim and Greg speak with the winners of the fourth annual Sound Opinions Writing Prize. These Columbia College Chicago students receive scholarship funds thanks to the Walter and Karla Goldschmidt Foundation. Amy Fisher Rosalie Gengras Zink -- 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 ou...

Jun 11, 20259 min

Regrettable Band Names

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot talk with writer Kyle Ryan about his Substack, Band Name Bureau. They explore the overlap between good music and poorly named bands. A selection of examples are discussed and played. 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 Featured ...

Jun 06, 202551 minEp. 1019

The Avante-Garde Legend of Bahia

In this bonus episode, Greg adds a song to the Desert Island Jukebox—one that came back to him after watching the Brazilian film "I'm Still Here". Become a member on Patreon: https://bit.ly/3slWZvc oin 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 California Privacy Notice a...

Jun 04, 20256 min

RIP Jill Sobule, Plus Opinions on tUnE-yArDs, Pelican & Shamir

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot pay tribute to the late singer-songwriter Jill Sobule. They revisit their 2009 conversation with Jill where they discuss her music and being a pioneer for crowdfunding art. They also review the new music from Shamir, Pelican and tUnE-yArDs. 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: Des...

May 30, 202551 minEp. 1018

The Ubu Ultimatum

Following our tributes to David Thomas and Peter Laughner of Pere Ubu, Jims rounds out the trilogy with a song by another of the band's members. Become a member on Patreon: https://bit.ly/3slWZvc oin 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 California Privacy Notice at ...

May 28, 20257 min

Introducing: One By Willie

In this episode of One By Willie, music critic Amanda Petrusich discusses Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard's duet "Reasons to Quit" from the album 'Pancho & Lefty'. They explore the album's theme of the "Outlaw's Conundrum"—aging rebels confronting domesticity—and delve into why sad songs can offer comfort and solidarity during difficult times, acting as a life preserver rather than a cure.

May 27, 202552 min

Tsunami & Opinions on Julien Baker and Torres

Hosts Jim DeRogatis and Greg Kot review the debut collaborative album from Julien Baker and Torres, discussing its blend of country signifiers with progressive themes of addiction, religion, and sexuality. They then interview Jenny Toomey and Kristin Thomson of the iconic DC indie rock band Tsunami, exploring their reunion spurred by a comprehensive box set, their DIY ethos with Simple Machines label, their political activism, and their candid perspective on the challenges facing musicians in today's highly concentrated, tech-dominated music industry.

May 23, 202550 minEp. 1017

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 Send us a Voice Memo: Desk...

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 Mobile: sayhi.chat/soundops Featured Songs: ...

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/soundops See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/...

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/soundops Featured Songs: Daisychain, "G-String,"...

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: bit.ly/2RyD5Ah Mobile: sayhi...

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 Send us a Voice Memo: Deskt...

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 California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/...

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 donation via PayPal: h...

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.ly/2RyD5Ah Mobile: sayhi.chat...

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 Mobile: sayhi.chat/soundops Feat...

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/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art1...

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/3dmt9lU Send us a Voice ...

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/2RyD5Ah Mobile: sayhi.chat/sou...

Mar 07, 202547 minEp. 1006
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