Honest & Unmerciful Record Review Podcast

Ep. 25 - David Bowie: "Hunky Dory"

Join Pete, Brian, and special guest reviewer Kevin Brown ("The Tom Petty Project") as they track the many stylistic changes on David Bowie's fourth LP, 1971's "Hunky Dory". Bowie at once honors his inspirations and looks toward his own future on an album that features a variety of styles. But with any break from the past and harbinger of what's to come in an artist's career, does the album hold up? Tune in to find out!  Episode originally released 27 June 2022.

Ep. 24 - U2: "Achtung Baby"

Join Pete and Brian as they explore U2's "Achtung Baby" (1991), a transformative, influential record with a surprising origin story. This album finds the band redefining their sound and taking huge steps from self-serious 80's rockers to changing the musical landscape of the 90's. Experimenting with new production approaches and attitudes, while still unmistakably U2, "Achtung Baby" garnered even greater commercial success. How does this record hold up 30 years later? Tune in to find out!  Episode originally released 6 June 2022.

Ep. 23 - The Cure: "Disintegration"

Join Pete and Brian as they delve into the many layers of The Cure's landmark 1989 album, "Disintegration". Striving to create a work of lasting importance and sustaining a heavy mood, Robert Smith and co. recorded an album that reverberates with melancholia and melodies both grand and sparse.  An all-time classic or an emotionally-draining experience? Tune in to find out! Episode originally released 10 May 2022.

Ep. 22 - XTC: "Black Sea"

Join Pete and Brian as they dive deep into the churning sonic waters of XTC's 1980 album, "Black Sea". This record is brimming over with experimental sounds and lyrics, with XTC wearing the "New Wave" badge as well as referencing mid-60's British psychedelia, while sounding totally distinct and modern. Is the record a work of genius, challenging conventions of the time, or the album equivalent of "everything and the kitchen sink"? Tune in to find out! Episode originally released 29 March 2022.

Ep. 21 - Genesis: "A Trick of the Tail"

Join Pete and Brian as they explore 1976's "A Trick of the Tail" album by Genesis, the band's first without Peter Gabriel on lead vocals, swapping in young drummer Phil Collins. While the loss of a distinct voice and visual identity could have ended the fledgling band, Genesis delivered a classic album full of progressive music, adventurous lyrics and a voice that began a new era of critical and popular acclaim. Does this record point the band in the direction of pop hitmakers, or represent the logical next step from their art-rock past? Tune in to find out! Episode originally released 9 February 2022.

Ep. 20 - AC/DC: "Back in Black"

Join Pete and Brian as they tackle AC'DC's 1980 classic LP "Back in Black". One of the all-time best-selling albums, "Back in Black" found the hard-rocking Aussie band paying tribute to their departed vocalist, Bon Scott, and breaking in the pipes of new lead singer, Brian Johnson. Never backing away from hedonistic themes and heavy guitar licks, the album delivers huge singles mixed with some controversial lyrics.  Episode originally released 14 January 2022.

Ep. 19 - Radiohead: "Kid A"

Join Pete and Brian as they dig into Radiohead's lauded but challenging 2000 album, "Kid A". Coming off their acclaimed "OK Computer" record, anticipation for the next LP was high and the pressure was on to deliver. Radiohead responded with an album of sonic experiments and disparate influences that confounded many but also shaped their sound going forward. Is it a landmark masterpiece or a big mess? Tune in to find out!  Episode originally released 22 December 2021.

Ep. 18 - The Who: "Who's Next"

Join Pete and Brian as they revisit a true monolith of classic rock, The Who's 1971 album "Who's Next". We'll discuss how the album's tracks were born out of sessions for another ambitious concept LP/rock opera. A band of huge characters and musical talents, "Who's Next" collects some of their most famous and recognizable tunes, showcasing their style and stretching into new themes and techniques. Does "Who's Next" live up to its mythic status? Tune in to find out!  Episode originally released 25 November 2021.

Ep. 17 - Nada Surf: "Let Go"

Can a band escape the dreaded "one-hit wonder" label and craft a career of consistency and critical acclaim by musical maturation and perseverance? That was Nada Surf's challenge with 2002's "Let Go", taking the independent route to establish their true identity beyond 1996's buzz-bin hit "Popular". Did they succeed in their efforts? Tune in as Pete and Brian offer their perspectives on this transitional album by a beloved band. Episode originally released 27 September 2021.

Ep. 16 - Ben Folds Five: "Whatever and Ever Amen"

Join Pete and Brian for an honest, unmerciful analysis of 1997's "Whatever and Ever Amen" LP by Ben Folds Five.  This power trip (piano, bass and drums) rocked and walked the edge of 90's irony and sincerity with a lively mix of melody, melancholy and rage. Does that sound like a recipe for success or disaster? Tune in to find out!  Episode originally released 2 Sept 2021.