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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Pri...
Aug 23, 2019•57 min•Ep. 717
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at htt...
Aug 16, 2019•57 min•Ep. 716
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 ...
Aug 09, 2019•56 min•Ep. 715
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See om...
Aug 02, 2019•57 min•Ep. 714
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/list...
Jul 26, 2019•57 min•Ep. 713
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privac...
Jul 19, 2019•57 min•Ep. 712
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Jul 12, 2019•56 min•Ep. 711
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...
Jul 05, 2019•57 min•Ep. 710
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon....
Jun 28, 2019•57 min•Ep. 709
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Jun 21, 2019•57 min•Ep. 708
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. Support The Show...
Jun 14, 2019•57 min•Ep. 707
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Noti...
Jun 07, 2019•57 min•Ep. 706
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell...
May 31, 2019•57 min•Ep. 705
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...
May 24, 2019•57 min•Ep. 704
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...
May 17, 2019•57 min•Ep. 703
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See ...
May 10, 2019•57 min•Ep. 702
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. Support The Show: https://w...
May 03, 2019•57 min•Ep. 701
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for pri...
Apr 26, 2019•57 min•Ep. 700
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See o...
Apr 19, 2019•56 min•Ep. 699
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://...
Apr 12, 2019•57 min•Ep. 698
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." Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy ...
Apr 05, 2019•56 min•Ep. 697
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19....
Mar 29, 2019•56 min•Ep. 696
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/sou...
Mar 22, 2019•57 min•Ep. 695
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/priva...
Mar 15, 2019•56 min•Ep. 694
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info ....
Mar 08, 2019•56 min•Ep. 693
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for...
Mar 01, 2019•57 min•Ep. 692
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinion...
Feb 22, 2019•57 min•Ep. 691
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice ...
Feb 15, 2019•57 min•Ep. 690
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and Cal...
Feb 08, 2019•57 min•Ep. 689
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. Support The Show: https://www.patreon.com/soundopinions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at h...
Feb 01, 2019•57 min•Ep. 688
