In The Past: Garage Rock Podcast
The usual format is this: we pick a song from the 1950s or 1960s (genres range from garage, R&B, Girl Groups, Motown and Doo-Wop), and discuss three versions of that song, or sometimes we just play a song we haven’t heard before and react to it. We’ve covered classics like “Little Bit o’ Soul” and “Psychotic Reaction” to rarities like “Jump and Dance” by the Carnaby, and “Ringo I Love You” by Bonnie Jo Mason (aka Cher). Our aim is to discuss what makes these songs interesting, ineffable, or even intolerable. We place special emphasis on the “moments” in these songs where, perhaps, a new interpretation will emerge from. A close look at song structure is also present in our discussions. If that sounds academic, maybe it is a little bit, but we like to keep the analysis in the spirit of the songs we speak of – which means we drink some spirits (for Erik, it’s bourbon, for Weldon, it’s Stambecco) – and that means by the third song, things can get a little wild. Basically, we talk about rock!
In The Past: Garage Rock Podcast
(Just Like) Romeo and Juliet
Hark! What song through yonder window breaks? It is "(Just Like) Romeo & Juliet" by The Reflections, from 1964. It may be the last gasp of doo-wop, but what a way to go out! You wouldn't believe how many other houses have covered this song - let's start with The Fadin' Colours from the land of Shakespeare. They add fuzz!, horns, and a turbulent arrangement that matches the dramatic subject matter. Little Caesar & The Consuls are some Canucks who sped the song up and affixed some hillbilly hiccupin'! Lovers of Nuggets will expect Michael & The Messengers version and we won't disappoint - a great organ-driven garage number that deserves your ears, countrymen! Ultimate Spinach are strong to the finish with their '68 rendition - surprisingly tasty! Finally, the Fallen Angels revived the song in '75 (too bad they couldn't do the same for the main characters) and it's wisely slow - they stumble that run fast! (that's from the Bard himself!!) These violent delights have violent end!