Accelerated Culture (acceleratedculture)

This week we celebrate the 2022 inductees into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Duran Duran, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, Jimmy Iovine, Elizabeth “Libba” Cotton, Judas Priest, Sylvia Robinson, Carly Simon, Allen Grubman, Lionel Richie, Eurythmics, Harry Belafonte, Eminem, and Dolly Parton. Congratulations to all this year’s inductees!

Check out this week’s playlist on YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHahx-btOMPoeSg36DiXKZusFpXE5kYHn&feature=share

This week, the Accelerated Culture team explores one of Laurie’s all-time favorites and asks the age-old question, “How many bass guitarists can you fit into one alternative rock group?” Ned’s Atomic Dustbin answered the question with their debut album, God Fodder. A relentless, adrenaline-fueled thrill ride, this album urged you to think about your relationships and, of course, to “Kill Your Television.”

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In this episode of Accelerated Culture, we dive into the mesmerizing world of My Bloody Valentine’s iconic 1991 album “Loveless.” Renowned for its groundbreaking blend of dreamy soundscapes and innovative guitar techniques, “Loveless” redefined the shoegaze genre and left an indelible mark on alternative music. We’ll explore the album’s complex production process, the unique artistic vision of frontman Kevin Shields, and the ways in which the lush, swirling layers of sound continue to inspire musicians today. Join us as we unravel the enigmatic beauty of “Loveless” and its enduring legacy in the world of music.

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In this episode, we shine a spotlight on the power-pop trio Material Issue and their iconic debut album, “International Pop Overthrow.” Released in 1991, this album is brimming with infectious hooks, jangly guitars, and frontman Jim Ellison’s heartfelt lyrics. We explore the band’s origins, their rise in the Chicago circuit, and the creation of their cult-classic debut, which features standout tracks like “Valerie Loves Me,” “Diane,” and “Renee Remains the Same.” Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the band, this episode is a celebration of “International Pop Overthrow” and its place in pop music history.

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Theme music: “Dancing Underwater (Instrumental Version)” by I'MIN, licensed through Epidemic Sound.

 

Join us as we dive into the synth-laden world of Electronic’s self-titled 1991 debut album—a meeting of minds where New Order’s beats and The Smiths’ wit collided. We’ll unpack how Johnny Marr and Bernard Sumner’s side hustle became the ultimate ‘90s supergroup flex, blending Britpop angst with dancefloor grooves. Tune in for a nostalgic trip that’s as smooth as a synth solo and as sharp as a Mancunian quip.

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Accelerated Culture continues its trek through 1989 with a deep dive into the debut album by Nine Inch Nails, “Pretty Hate Machine. ” Laurie and Rob start with an examination of Trent Reznor’s past, following the path that led him to create one of the landmark albums of the decade. That's followed by an in-depth inspection of each of the ten tracks, starting with the righteous anger of “Head Like A Hole” and wrapping up with the moody “Ringfinger.” Join us as we look at all the parts used to build such a “Pretty Hate Machine."

Join us as we take a journey back to the latter half 1984, the height of the Cold War era. From the political and social turmoil of the time came a wave of music that reflected the angst and disillusionment of the youth. We'll explore the hits and hidden gems of the time and discuss their impact. Whether you're a fan of the era or just curious about the music of the time, this episode is not to be missed.

This week, Laurie & Trey take a step back from their hosting duties. Instead, we've put together a holiday playlist of songs from our favorite new wave & alternative artists. So, grab a cup of eggnog, sit back, and enjoy the Accelerated Culture 2022 Holiday Playlist!

1. “Do They Know Its Christmas,” Band Aid 2. “Christmas Wrapping,” The Waitresses 3. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home),” U2 4. “Merry Christmas (I Don't Want to Fight Tonight),” The Ramones 5. “Christmas in Hollis,” Run-D.M.C. 6. “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” Bad Religion 7. “Christmastime,” Smashing Pumpkins 8. “Frosty the Snowman,” Cocteau Twins 9. “Peace On Earth /Little Drummer Boy (Medley),” Bing Crosby & David Bowie 10. “Happy Xmas (War Is Over),” Andy Taylor 11. “Winter Wonderland,” Eurythmics 12. “Silent Night,” Sinéad O'Connor 13. “Il est né le divin enfant,” Siouxsie and the Banshees 14. “We Three Kings,” Book of Love 15. “Fairytale of New York,” The Pogues 16. “Christmas Christmas,” Mojo Nixon 17. “Silver Bells,” R.E.M. 18. “Merry Christmas,” INXS 19. “Things Fall Apart,” Cristina 20. “Zat You Santa Claus,” Buster Poindexter & His Banshees Of Blue

The Accelerated Culture team takes a deep dive into the album that launched an entire genre: Massive Attack’s debut album, “Blue Lines.” Combining hip-hop, r&b, reggae, pop, and more, this trip-hop classic takes the listener on a dark, moody, and soulful journey: grooves designed as much for your head as for the dance floor. Laurie and Scott explore Massive Attack’s origins in the Bristol sound system scene, the culturally diverse influences that shaped their approach to music, and the production techniques that make this album a field day for fans of the “spot the sample” game. Put your headphones on and get ready to dive deep.

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In this episode we delve deep into the iconic Duran Duran album “Big Thing.” Join Laurie along with our new co-host and resident music aficionado Rob as they take you on a track-by-track exploration of this groundbreaking record. From the infectious rhythms of “I Don’t Want Your Love” to the ethereal sounds of “Palomino,” we dissect each song's unique production, lyrical themes, and the band's innovative sonic experiments that pushed the boundaries of their signature New Romantic sound. We also include a few non-album tracks, including Simon LeBon’s solo track “Grey Lady of the Sea” and “Follow in my Footsteps,” part of a band side project. Tune in to relive the magic of this influential album and gain new insights into the creative genius behind one of the ’80s most enduring bands. ================================================ Laurie & Rob are going to be participating in a LIVE video podcast for International Podcast Day on Saturday, September 30, 2023. Tickets to this virtual event are FREE, but you have to register here: https://hopin.com/events/international-podcast-day-2023 Accelerated Culture Podcast will be closing out the day with a set from 8:30-9:00pm EDT. Come join us LIVE as we share & discuss our favorite music videos from the 1980s! Be sure to register for FREE: https://hopin.com/events/international-podcast-day-2023 

This week we continue our musical tour of 1982 with a track-by-track deep dive into INXS’ breakthrough album, “Shabooh Shoobah.” Few people realized in 1982 that these six boys from Australia would go on to conquer the world within a decade. Join us as we discuss the music and the videos—and the clothes!—and place them in a wider cultural context. Also in this episode, we discover that Laurie may have a clothing-related fetish. You won’t want to miss this episode!

For our final episode of 2024, we dive deep into “The White Room,” the iconic 1991 album by The KLF, and unravel the bizarre and bewildering mythology surrounding it. From cryptic Illuminati symbolism and the duo's obsession with chaos magic to a surreal Wicker Man ceremony in Scotland, the story behind this album defies belief. We’ll also explore the infamous car-pushing stunt, a jaw-dropping cliffside act of defiance, and the ultimate act of rebellion: the sacrificial burning of one million pounds. Buckle up for a journey into the avant-garde madness of music history!

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Theme music: “Dancing Underwater (Instrumental Version)” by I'MIN, licensed through Epidemic Sound.

 

Accelerated Culture moves into 1989 in this episode as we do a track-by-track deep dive into New Order’s masterpiece, “Technique.” Listen along as Laurie and Rob, former Mr. Disco 1978 (allegedly!–Laurie), recap the origins of New Order and follow the path that led to the acid house tinge of this album. From the classic sound of “All The Way” to the shining synths of “Vanishing Point”, you’ll have a fine time listening as we break down the album with style and class, and show you how much we love “Technique.”

Special bonus content that got cut from Episode 2: Duran Duran’s “Rio” (1982). Trey tells us about the “Carnival” EP from 1982. Enjoy this special bonus content, and be sure to tune in next week for Episode 3: INXS’s “Shabooh Shoobah” (1982).

This is the first of three episodes on the music of 1985, a banner year. In this episode, we delve into the popular music of the year, from Madonna’s emotional ballads to Til Tuesday’s new wave style and Tears for Fears’ synth-pop. So sit back, relax, and let's explore the pop music of 1985 together.

Scott Free, our cohost with the most, introduces our upcoming episode. Look for it on Saturday, May 25th!

Nirvana’s landmark album “Nevermind,” released in 1991, is a cornerstone of the grunge movement and a pivotal moment in rock history. The trio, consisting of Kurt Cobain, Krist Novoselic, and Dave Grohl, created a raw yet melodic sound that captured the angst and disillusionment of a generation. Under the masterful production of Butch Vig, the album achieved a polished yet powerful sound, making it accessible to a wider audience while retaining its edge. “Nevermind” is crucial not only for its commercial success but also for its profound influence on the music industry, bringing alternative rock into the mainstream and solidifying Nirvana’s legacy as one of the most influential bands of all time.

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In this episode, we explore the influential soundscape of the Pixies’ 1989 album “Doolittle.” We unpack how this album shattered boundaries in the alternative rock scene of the late '80s with its raw energy and thought-provoking lyrics. Join us as we unravel the layers of its distinct sonic palette, dissecting its impact on music then and now. 

In this episode of Accelerated Culture, we’re taking a trip back to 1984 to explore the sounds of the first half of the year.

We’ll start off by revisiting some of the most iconic and influential tracks of the era, including “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper, “The Reflex” by Duran Duran, and “Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood. These tracks defined the sound of the eighties and continue to be revered by fans of alternative and new wave music to this day.

Throughout the episode, we’ll be discussing the lasting impact of these tracks and how they continue to influence the alternative and new wave scene today. Also, Trey shares his story of an encounter with an “imposter” 80s band!

So, join us as we take a trip back to 1984 and explore the unforgettable sounds of the first half of the year.

 

The full playlist of this week’s songs (all 20 of ’em!) is available here: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHahx-btOMPo7uZ1x9XyV2hQ8TvlHFTo-&feature=share

In this captivating episode of the Accelerated Culture Podcast, we dive deep into the enigmatic world of British alternative rock pioneers, The Cure, and their iconic 1987 double album, "Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me." Join us as we embark on a nostalgic journey through the captivating soundscapes crafted by Robert Smith and his bandmates.

Our next episode comes out in one week (Jan. 6). In the meantime, listen to this end-of-year message from Laurie & Rob. And be sure to check out our website at acceleratedculturepodcast.com. Best wishes for a happy & prosperous 2024!

"Ethernight Club" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

We continue our exploration of new wave & alternative music in the 1980s with first of four episodes on the music of 1986! Join us as we celebrate the hits, the one-hit wonders, and the under-the-radar tunes from this banner year in music!

CALL THE COPS! We continue our exploration into the year 1990 with the Happy Mondays’ genre-defining classic “Pills ’n' Thrills and Bellyaches.” The Mondays were at the forefront of the Madchester music scene, and the revelry of the music was only rivaled by Shaun and Paul Ryder’s mischief offstage. This is a longer episode, but it’s a fun one. We know you’ll enjoy it.   

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In this episode, we’re diving into Matthew Sweet’s 1991 breakout album, “Girlfriend”—a power pop gem that blends heartache, soaring melodies, and some of the most electrifying guitar work of the era. From its jangly, Beatles-esque hooks to the raw emotion behind Sweet’s lyrics, “Girlfriend” became an instant cult classic and remains a defining album of ‘90s alternative rock. We’ll explore its backstory, the impact of Sweet’s songwriting, and why this record still resonates more than 30 years later. So grab your headphones, and let’s take a ride through this power pop masterpiece!

******************** To support the Secret Gentlemen‘s Club CHIditarod team and support the CHIditarod Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization created to help solve Chicago’s hunger challenges, please donate here: https://www.classy.org/team/633030  ********************

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In this episode, we continue our two-part discussion on John Hughes films and their music. Part Two, we explore Hughes films from 1986-1989 from “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” to “Uncle Buck.” These songs were more than film soundtracks; they formed the soundtracks to our lives!

Listen to this week's music playlist on YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHahx-btOMPrPUPJSXE1drAzqmctBop8N&feature=share

In this captivating podcast episode, we take a nostalgic journey back to the musical landscape of 1988, a year that marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of alternative music. From the pulsating synth-pop sounds of Erasure and Information Society, to the irreverent and quirky punk vibes of The Dead Milkmen, and the enigmatic allure of Q. Lazzarus, whose haunting vocals graced the iconic “Goodbye Horses,” we explore the diverse and groundbreaking tracks that defined this era. Join us as we unravel the sonic tapestry of 1988, delving into the cultural and musical influences that shaped these artists and their enduring impact on the alternative music scene.

We are sad to announce that this will be Trey’s last episode as co-host! Wishing him the best of luck with his future endeavors, including plans for a new horror film podcast. Check back in two weeks for Episode #27 when we will introduce our new co-host.

This week we begin a two-part introspective on the new-wave music that formed the soundtrack for John Hughes films in the 80s. If you’re a child of the 80s, you probably grew up loving these films—and their soundtracks! In Part One, we explore Hughes films from 1980-1986, beginning with “National Lampoon’s Vacation” and ending with “Pretty in Pink.” You couldn’t ignore these songs if you tried.

Listen to this week's music playlist on YouTube: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHahx-btOMPq5hLOpOozU9WaFt-hY1PsW&feature=share

In this episode, we dive into Pearl Jam’s “Ten,” unpacking the layered storytelling and raw instrumentation that make standout tracks like “Alive,” “Even Flow,” and “Jeremy” so compelling. Eddie Vedder’s distinctive vocal delivery and introspective lyrics bring a unique depth to the record, adding a personal narrative that complements the band’s musical experimentation. Whether you're revisiting the album or discovering it for the first time, this conversation reveals fresh insights into a record that continues to spark curiosity and conversation.

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Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Accelerated Culture podcast! In this first episode, Trey & Laurie introduce us to new wave & alternative music from Summer 1982. Our hosts will also discuss how they came to love new wave music. To quote Trey: “Well, it all started with Duran Duran....”

All 20 songs from this episode are in our Spotify playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0lIXQPRdIEACU3CFZ3EpKS?si=917967456a604a77

 

This week’s album deep dive is a fan request: “Heaven or Las Vegas” by Cocteau Twins is a mesmerizing sonic journey characterized by ethereal vocals, lush instrumentation, and dreamlike atmospheres. Released in 1990, it remains a quintessential shoegaze and dream pop masterpiece, renowned for its otherworldly soundscapes and Elizabeth Fraser’s enchanting singing style. Join us as we examine this timeless classic in alternative music history.

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This week we do a track-by-track deep dive into the 1986 synth pop classic, “Please.” Join us as we discuss the musical genius of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe on their debut album, which was destined to become an instant classic everywhere from Lake Geneva to the Finland Station.

Laurie & Scott Free will be podcasting LIVE this week for #InternationalPodcastDay2024! We'll be live video podcasting on Saturday, Sep. 28 at 3:30pm EDT. If you want to watch us live, you have to register. Register now for FREE at https://www.eventcreate.com/e/international-podcast-day-2024 

Thanks to our friends at Poduty Live Events for organizing this event for a second year!

This week we explore Duran Duran’s 1986 transitional album “Notorious,” which represented a departure from the band’s trademark sound. It also meant a literal departure for drummer Roger Taylor and guitarist Andy Taylor. Not to be deterred, the remaining band members proceeded to reinvent themselves as a trio with the assistance of legendary guitarist and producer Nile Rodgers. Join us as we examine this notorious album, track by track.

This week, Laurie & Trey dive into the sonic landscape of U2’s iconic 1987 album “The Joshua Tree.” We uncover the rich layers of each track and take you on a track-by-track journey through the album’s soul-stirring melodies and profound lyrical narratives. From the desert-inspired ambience of “Where the Streets Have No Name” to the introspective depths of “With or Without You,” this episode explores how the album’s themes of hope, spirituality, and social commentary were masterfully woven into every chord progression and poetic verse. Join us as we unravel the stories behind the songs, the creative process that brought them to life, and the enduring impact “The Joshua Tree” has left on the landscape of rock music. Whether you’re a dedicated U2 fan or a newcomer, prepare to be transported into the heart of this musical masterpiece.

We begin the New Year with the first of a two-part interview with legendary artist & video director Nick Egan! In this first half, Nick discusses the art college scene during the heyday of punk rock in the late 1970s and his creating album covers for The Clash, Dexys Midnight Runners, Bow Wow Wow, Malcolm McLaren, Iggy Pop, and INXS. Nick also shares with us insights from his friendship with the late Michael Hutchence of INXS.

Be sure to come back on Feb. 3, 2024, for the second part of the interview, in which Nick discusses working with the Psychedelic Furs, Duran Duran, Oasis, and Alanis Morissette. You can view Nick’s incredible portfolio of work at nickegan.com.

If you like the music featured in this episode, be sure to listen to our complete Episode 34 playlist on Spotify.

In honor of #InternationalPodcastDay2024, Laurie & Scott free went LIVE for this week's episode on One-Hit Wonders of 1991.

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In this podcast episode, the spotlight is on Tears For Fears’ iconic album “The Seeds Of Love.” The hosts delve into the making of the album, exploring its unique sound, lyrical themes, and the band’s artistic evolution. They discuss the impact of tracks like “Sowing the Seeds of Love” and “Advice for the Young at Heart,” providing insights into the musical landscape of the late ’80s. Quotes from band members and industry experts offer a comprehensive view of the album's significance, making it a must-listen for Tears For Fears enthusiasts and music aficionados alike.

Scott Free & Laurie introduce our upcoming episode on “Sailing the Seas of Cheese” (1991) by Primus. Look for it on Saturday, August 17th!

With the recent passing of singer, songwriter & multi-instrumentalist Karl Wallinger on March 10, 2024, we thought it appropriate to revisit his 1990 album “Goodbye Jumbo.”  In its blending of diverse musical styles with socially-conscious themes, the album remains a timeless classic and a fitting tribute to Mr. Wallinger.

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In this episode, we take a track-by-track deep dive into “Leisure,” Blur’s 1991 debut and a foundational record of the Britpop movement. From the psychedelic swirls of “She’s So High” to the baggy, Madchester-infused grooves of “There’s No Other Way”, we explore the album’s blend of shoegaze, indie rock, and danceable rhythms. How did “Leisure” set the stage for Blur’s evolution, and where does it stand in the grand scheme of Britpop history? Tune in as we unpack the sounds, influences, and legacy of this underrated classic. 

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Spooky season is upon us, and this week Trey & Laurie play our favorite Halloween-themed songs from the 80s (and early 90s). What punk rocker wrote a song while hanging out in Stephen King’s basement? Which 80s artist does Trey describe as “the gothic Frank Sinatra”? What band was heavily inspired by occultist Aleister Crowley? For the answers to these pressing questions and more, be sure to listen to this week’s Accelerated Culture podcast! This week's complete playlist can be found here: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHahx-btOMPoWuSFUA_E6EGlamwyIBi_G

We continue our series on the best alternative albums of 1991 with Jesus Jones’ landmark 1991 album “Doubt.” Combining driving rock bass and guitars with dance-inspired beats and creative use of samples, “Doubt” beautifully captures the essence of 1991, evoking the atmosphere and emotions of a new decade when it seemed anything was possible. 

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Theme music: “Dancing Underwater (Instrumental Version)” by I'MIN, licensed through Epidemic Sound.

 

This week, we dive deep into Big Audio Dynamite II’s 1991 album “The Globe,” a pivotal record that fused rock, dance, and hip-hop influences to define the early ’90s soundscape. We explore the band’s evolution under Mick Jones’ leadership following his departure from The Clash, highlighting the album’s genre-blending approach with its innovative sampling and catchy hooks, including standout tracks like “Rush” and the title track “The Globe.”

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EARLY ACCESS FOR PATREON SUBSCRIBERS! If you like what we do at Accelerated Culture Podcast, please consider supporting us on Patreon for only $5 a month: https://www.patreon.com/AcceleratedCulturePodcast

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Join us LIVE for International Podcast Day 2024! Laurie & Scott Free will be doing a live video podcast on Saturday, September 29, 2024, at 3:30pm EDT. Registration is free.

1985 was a year of transitions for the Fab Five members of Duran Duran: having just come off their Sing Blue Silver tour, the members found themselves going in different directions. After working together on a new James Bond theme, the Duran boys took a bit of a break to work on separate side projects: The Power Station and Arcadia. We delve into this and more as we examine 1985 from the perspective of Duran Duran fans.

Continuing with the music of 1985, this week we explore the less mainstream songs released that year .From the ethereal stylings of Cocteau Twins to the home-grown punk of Naked Raygun, 1985 was the year that alternative music really began to blossom, and we are here to give you the highlights of this legendary year.

In honor of Australia Day (Jan. 26), this week we showcase our ten favorite Australian new wave & alternative bands (plus a couple honorable mentions)! Give a listen and then visit our Facebook page to vote for your favorite. We’ll reveal the winner in an upcoming episode.

Hello, everyone! This is Laurie. Scott Free and I are taking a break this week, but we will be back in two weeks with a very special episode for you as we continue our series on the albums of 1991. Be sure to tune in on Saturday, April 26th.

“Some Friendly,” released by The Charlatans in 1990, is a timeless blend of alternative rock and Madchester vibes, capturing the essence of the era. With its jangly guitar melodies and swirling organ sounds, the album embodies the euphoria and energy of the early '90s music scene. Tracks like “The Only One I Know” and “Then” showcase the band's distinctive sound and lyrical depth, cementing their place in the pantheon of influential British bands. Join us for this nostalgic track-by-track deep dive!

*** Laurie and Scott Free will be taking a couple of weeks off. We will return on May 25th with a brand new episode.

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Continuing with the music of 1982, this week we do a track-by-track album deep dive into Duran Duran’s iconic “Rio.” On the album's 40th anniversary, Laurie & Trey discuss the recording of the tracks, the music videos that came to define the genre, and their personal memories on hearing the songs for the first time. Congratulations to Duran Duran on being inducted into the 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame!

“We wanna be free! We wanna be free to do what we wanna do!” In this episode, we cover “Screamadelica,” the 1991 album by Primal Scream that pushed the boundaries of rock and electronic music. Celebrated for its fusion of acid house, psychedelia, and indie rock, “Screamadelica” became a cultural touchstone of the early ’90s. We explore the album's iconic tracks, such as “Loaded” and “Come Together,” its production by Andrew Weatherall, and its lasting influence on the music scene. Join us as we unravel how Primal Scream created a timeless soundtrack to the rave revolution.

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We could not let our musical tribute to 1986 pass without acknowledging this legendary, groundbreaking album, Peter Gabriel’s “So” (1986). With guest vocalists Kate Bush, Youssou N'Dour, and Laurie Anderson, and guest musicians such as Nile Rodgers and Stewart Copeland, this entire album is a synthpop dream from start to finish. Join us as we explore, track by track, Peter’s musical masterpiece.

In the early 80s, a new band rose from the ashes of Joy Division. This Manchester quartet rebranded themselves as New Order, and they went on to have a string of pop and dance hits. “Substance,” released in 1987, stands as a remarkable compilation of the band’s most influential and innovative work up to that point, combining elements of electronic music with rock to a unique and captivating sound that would define the era. The album is a treasure trove of hit singles, including iconic tracks like “Blue Monday,” “Bizarre Love Triangle,” and “True Faith,” all of which have left an indelible mark on the music landscape. 

As Fall of 1987 rolled around, audiences were treated to a “New Sensation” in the form of INXS’ album “Kick.” The six lads from Down Under had put together an entire album of singles that showcased their hybrid rock-funk sound. But, did you know that the album almost didn’t see the light of day? Join us as we discuss this iconic 80s album and the history behind it. “Calling All Nations!”

Happy Halloween! In this eerie episode, Laurie and Rob deviate from the usual chronology to do a creepy deep dive into the Oingo Boingo masterpiece, “Dead Man’s Party”! We discuss the band’s origins and evolution and then delve into the mysteries behind each track from the album: the dark isolation of “Just Another Day,” the longing of “Stay,” the ghostly glee of “No One Lives Forever”—all here submitted for your approval. 

Leave your body at the door and join us at the party everyone’s dying to get into!

 

With the recent passing of Sinéad O’Connor on July 26, 2023, we felt it was only appropriate to pay tribute to this legendary outspoken Irish singer. In this episode, we will explore the life of Sinéad O’Connor through bits of her 2021 memoir Rememberings as well as her songwriting, including a track-by-track exploration of her 1987 debut, The Lion & The Cobra. We’ll examine her complicated life, from her abusive childhood to her many loves, her religion... and of course, her controversies in the media. Please join us as we mourn the loss of this fiery, outspoken artist.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses child abuse, abortion, and suicide.

“Here they come, Here come the bastards!” In our forty-eighth episode, we explore the 1991 classic “Sailing the Seas of Cheese.” It’s a quirky blend of funk, rock, and alternative metal, featuring Les Claypool’s distinctive bass playing and surreal lyrics. The album showcases Primus’ unique sound and has become a cult classic, including tracks like “Jerry Was a Race Car Driver” and “Tommy the Cat.”

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This week, we continue exploring the alternative music of 1990 with sex, drugs, and Satan: Chicago industrial rockers My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult and their album “Confessions of a Knife.” Join us as we ride the mindway!

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We end our series on influential albums of 1990 with “X” by INXS. From the opening harmonica notes of “Suicide Blonde” to the dulcet tones of “Hear That Sound,” Scott Free & Laurie take you track by track through this dance-rock classic. We also discuss the band’s legendary July 13, 1991 show at Wembley Stadium which was filmed for the concert movie “Live Baby Live.” Tune in & join us for this trip down memory lane!

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This week, we move into a new decade & delve into the iconic Depeche Mode album “Violator,” a seminal work released in 1990 that marked a significant evolution in the band's sound. Join us as we dissect the album track by track, uncovering the raw emotions, innovative synth-driven compositions, and introspective lyrics that have solidified its status as a groundbreaking classic. From the pulsating rhythms and sensual undertones of “Personal Jesus” to the dark, atmospheric allure of “Policy of Truth,” we explore how “Violator” masterfully blended electronic beats with David Gahan’s distinctive vocals and Martin Gore’s lyrical prowess, creating an album that resonates deeply with listeners to this day. 

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In Episode 1, we explored the rise of New Wave Music in 1982. By 1983, it was all over the airwaves. Being different was “in.” In this latest episode, Laurie & Trey play their favorite songs from 1983 and discuss how the musicians influenced their lives, their attitudes, and their fashion sense! You won’t want to miss this episode.

Be sure to listen to our Spotify Playlist here with all 20 songs from the episode: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5ZOWcdk0guAJsn2oCxPckf?si=21074973a1e44f22

Laurie & Scott Free return from their two-week break to discuss one of the biggest albums of 1991: “Achtung Baby” by U2. After the mega-success of “The Joshua Tree,” followed by the disappointing box office performance of the film “Rattle & Hum,” the Dublin-based quartet decided to reinvent themselves with an entirely new sound, merging dance-floor beats with distorted guitars, industrial textures, and introspective lyrics. Tracks like “One,” “Mysterious Ways,” and “The Fly” demonstrated U2’s ability to blend emotional depth with cutting-edge production, solidifying their status as one of the most innovative bands of the era. Join us as we explore this landmark album and share the stories behind the songs.

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Theme music: “Dancing Underwater (Instrumental Version)” by I'MIN, licensed through Epidemic Sound.

This week marks a tonal shift as we explore Talk Talk’s fifth and final studio album, “Laughing Stock.” We begin by examining Mark Hollis and Talk Talk’s career and evolution over the course of their first four albums, moving from New Romantic pop stars to post-rock pioneers, culminating in a track-by-track deep dive into this lesser-known but widely influential album. Join us on a musical journey of Biblical proportions.

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Sonic Youth’s 1990 album “Goo”  is a seminal work in alternative rock, blending noise, punk, and pop elements into a distinctive sonic landscape. The album showcases the band’s experimental spirit and knack for crafting catchy melodies with dissonant guitars and unconventional song structures. Tracks like “Kool Thing” and “Dirty Boots” are standout examples of Sonic Youth’s ability to juxtapose raw energy with introspective lyricism, solidifying “Goo” as a landmark release in the band’s prolific career and a cornerstone of the '90s alternative music scene.  

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We return to 1988 in this episode to plunge into the landmark alt-rock album “Nothing’s Shocking” by Jane’s Addiction. Hosts Laurie and Rob examine the band’s beginnings and internal struggles before evaluating each individual cut, including the driving “Mountain Song,” the lazy beauty of “Summertime Rolls,” and the scathing “Ted, Just Admit It.” Join us as we explore the unforgettable sounds and stories behind this timeless album that influenced an entire generation of alternative artists.

In this episode we delve into the groundbreaking sounds of 1987, including R.E.M., The Sisters of Mercy, Depeche Mode, Midnight Oil, and The Cult. Join us as we unravel the stories behind these influential bands and their impact on the alternative music scene, a musical journey from Seattle to the end of the world.

In this episode, Laurie and Scott Free take a closer look at R.E.M.’s 1991 album “Out of Time,” a pivotal release that marked a shift in the band’s musical style. Stepping away from their jangly college-rock roots, R.E.M. embraced a richer, more diverse sound that incorporated elements of folk, pop, and orchestral arrangements. Featuring hits like “Losing My Religion” and “Shiny Happy People,” this Grammy-winning album brought the band widespread recognition while showcasing their willingness to experiment. Laurie and Scott discuss the album’s themes, production, and its place in ’90s music, offering a fresh perspective on this transformative moment in R.E.M.’s career.

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This week, we dissect the layers of melancholy introspection and sonic experimentation that define The Cure’s iconic 1989 album “Disintegration.” From the haunting opening notes of “Plainsong” to the brooding depths of the title track, we delve into each song’s emotional resonance and artistic evolution, from the lush atmospheric textures to the innovative use of studio effects. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of “Disintegration” and celebrate its enduring legacy in the pantheon of gothic and alternative rock.

Nick Egan returns to Accelerated Culture this week to discuss his storied career as an award-winning director of music videos. This week, he shares with us behind-the-scenes tales about working with Duran Duran, Alanis Morissette, and Oasis. Want to know what happened when Nick and two A-list rock stars went to Disneyland? Download this episode now to find out!

You can view Nick’s incredible portfolio of work at nickegan.com.

If you like the music featured in this episode, be sure to listen to our complete Episode 35 playlist on Spotify.

In this captivating podcast episode, we delve deep into the ethereal soundscape of The Church’s iconic 1988 album, “Starfish.” Join us as we embark on a sonic journey through its lush, dreamy melodies and poetic lyricism, exploring the album’s profound influence on alternative rock and its lasting legacy in the music industry. We unravel the creative process behind this masterpiece, shedding light on the album’s enigmatic title, its standout tracks, and the band’s unique blend of psychedelia and new wave elements. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to The Church’s sonic universe, this episode promises to immerse you in the timeless allure of “Starfish” and its enduring impact on the world of music.