Today I'm joined by Albert "311" Albanez to talk about two bizarre novelties from the 90's: Scatman John's "Scatman," and Lou Bega's "Mambo #5." We explore the Scatland utopia described in the Scatman's 1995 hit concept album, Scatman's World; try to decide if Mambo #5 is a failed attempt at a Macarena-style dance craze, and examine Lou Bega's stunningly rich assortment of terrible covers.
We also remember David Bowie and share a story of a drunken scat-along to Under Pressure. Lots of scat.
Aimee-Beth returns to talk about Breakfast at Tiffany’s—a song by that band whose name you don’t know. We dissect their on-the-nose, breakfast-filled music video, fashion styles lost to the ages, and with the help of a few YouTube commenters, take Beethoven down a notch.
We also discuss Good Songs by Broken Social Scene, Garbage, Save Ferris, and Polaris (yes, it’s that one)
Guest Aimee-Beth details her love/hate relationship with Reel Big Fish, and I argue that this cover might be the superior version of the song. We also discuss how the overbearing dorkiness of the two frontmen would have appealed to middle-school kids, and how the trumpet player reminds Aimee of a Nightmare Theater Boyfriend she had in high school.
Aaron Brock returns to help me dissect Dad Jam Anthems, Two Princes and Blues Traveler's Run-Around. Why are these supposed hippies in Spin Doctors writing lyrics about medieval courtship rituals? Is the fake band in Run-Around a deliberate parody of Counting Crows' Adam Duritz? Are either of these groups actual jam bands?
Aaron also tells me about seeing Soul Asylum and Jimmy Buffet in concert as a kid, we discuss the Dad Rave known as the HORDE Festival, and discuss a couple "Adult Alternative" songs we actually like: Weezer's El Scorcho and Ben Folds Five's Do It Anyway.
Season 2! I talk to returning guest Cahn Curtis about swing revivalists Cherry Poppin' Daddies' "Zoot Suit Riot" and Brian Setzer's Stray Cats' "Rock This Town." We discuss the swing revival of the 90's, whether or not Stray Cats are punk (they're not), and argue about the merits of revisionist Americana. Happy New Year!