The Ledge #660: The Real Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame (Pt. 3)
For the third, and final, episode where The Ledge attempts to fix the godawful errors of The Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame we handle the overlooked bands of the 90’s. Along with the usual punk and indie rock bands of that time, there’s also a couple of sets devoted to the Americana sub-genre that rose in popularity during that time. Again, just think of how much fun a ceremony would be that included the likes of the Supersuckers, Steve Earle, Rocket From the Crypt, Fugazi, Superchunk, and so many other greats. Maybe an Uncle Tupelo reunion could be negotiated after an all star jam under the Golden Smog name. Billy Childish could possibly jam with Reverend Horton Heat and Archers of Loaf! Oh that would be a show I wouldn’t miss! I also start the show with a lengthy discussion about my friend Monica Kindt, who tragically passed away earlier this week. She was my manager at two different record stores over the years, and was a person who endured many of my childish rants over the years. My thoughts go to her family and all of us friends who miss her so much. She would have loved my […]
The Ledge #653: More Songs From The Hudson Compound
Just like my cover show series, I have another folder where I throw in some tracks that I’ve listened to over the course of my day to day life. They’re primrily the vinyl I’ve either recently acquired or have pulled out of the archiv…
The Ledge #650: Runners Up
Two weeks ago, I unveiled my list of the 40 best albums of 2024. To get to that number, though, I considered over 100 different records that came out over those 12 months. Tonight’s episode is devoted to those records that almost made the list.
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The Ledge #647: Annual Rock & Roll Christmas Party
It has become an annual tradition for The Ledge to put together at least two hours of (mainly) brand new holiday music that does NOT suck. That’s the key word here. While most commercial Christmas music is banal, saccharine nonsense designed to …
The Ledge #612: Once Again Some Odds And Ends
This is another of those shows inspired primarily by what I’ve been listening to around the house. But it’s not just records this time, as the inspiration is coming from all sorts of media forms. The first main set, for instance, was inspired by the “Great Plains” section of Steven H. Gardner’s excellent Another Tuneless Racket: Punk and New Wave In the Seventies, Volume 5, The American Beat West. In late 70s Kansas City, there was a shortlived but extremely influential label called Titan Records. Gardner profiles the label, the principal owners, and the artists whose records were released in their short lifespan. Also represented in tonight’s show is music from the legendary label, Good Vibrations. No, it’s not Beach Boys-related. Good Vibrations was a Belfast record store and label that existed in the late 70s, and is most known for discovering and releasing the first Undertones single, “Teenage Kicks”. I suggest that all music fans head right away to Freevee and watch the wonderful film, Good Vibrations. If you love the tunes of that era, you’ll enjoy this film as much as I did The rest of the show consists of records I’ve thrown on my turntable the last […]
The Ledge #604: Odds & Ends Again
The “odds and ends” series is an opportunity for me to mix all kinds of material. This week’s version mixes a bunch of new releases with a ton of material I’ve been playing around the house in recent weeks. There’s also a…
The Ledge #583: New Releases
The Ledge has always been known to enjoy music from all over the world. This month’s new release episode, however, goes ever further than usual. Yes, we have new tunes from many of the usual suspects – Canada, Australia, England, Sweden, etc. But this month we expand that a little bit and have tunes from Indonesia and Japan! (Ok, Japanese rock and roll is not so unusual in these parts, but you get the picture.) There’s also the usual mix of long-awaited returns (Uni Boys, Wreckless Eric), and new (at least to me) artists such as Hurry, Young Francis Hi Fi, and Dennis Cometti. There’s a set devoted to a trio of solo artists who have shared the stage countless times over the years (Brad Marino, Geoff Palmer, and Kurt Baker), and who always seem to have new records right around the same time. We also have a sneak peak of the upcoming Replacements box set, Tim: Let It Bleed Edition. The “cello version” of “Can’t Hardly Wait” was actually a Paul Westerberg demo with Twin/Tone secretary Michelle Kinney on cello. The box set comes out on September 22, and as you may imagine, I…ok, I won’t go with the obvious […]
The Ledge #578: Covers
Every few months, I like to put together an all-covers edition of the show. As I’ve stated before, I have a folder all set up to toss in whatever tracks I want to later air. This edition came a little bit sooner than usual due to a couple of fabulous tribute records. The first release I wanted to highlight is the brand new An International Tribute To The Muffs, which features 26 fabulous covers of Kim Shattuck tunes. Proceeds from this release goes to the Team Shattuck Foundation of Kim´s Sister, Kristen Shattuck. The other great tribute record is Drunk Dial Fakes, Vol. 2. This ingenious set features “real” bands covering songs that were written for fictional TV and film bands. How can you not love covers from The Rutles, CHiPs, and That Thing You Do? As for the “52 Weeks of Teenage Kicks”, I’ve got a twofer for you this week. I recently discovered a couple of fabulous Undertones tribute records, and Teenage Hits – A Tribute To The Undertones features two wonderful remakes. And like always, I must again plead with y’all for more versions of “Teenage Kicks”. If you are a musician, or have any contact with artists that could record their own take […]
The Ledge #576: New Releases
It’s the first show of a new month, so it’s pretty obvious what’s going on this week. It’s over two hours of brand new music, ranging from Americana to punk to power pop to (lots of) garage rock. There are veteran acts and more…
The Ledge #566: Twofers
Tonight unveils a new sort of theme for a Ledge episode – Twofers! Everybody loves a twofer deal at the bar, so why not transfer the idea to rock and roll. (Yeah yeah yeah, I know radio stations have done this for decades. But it’s new to The Ledge!) The inspiration was a handful of great records that I’ve been paying a lot of attention to in the last few days. Last Saturday, for Record Store Day Sioux Falls (soon to be) legends Off Contact put out a few advance copies of their upcoming debut album, Pearls Before Swine. Of course I had to air some tracks off it! And then two days ago I received what may be my second-favorite power pop album of the year. Paint Fumes new record, Real Romancer, is chock full of great hooks accompanied by the sort of noisy guitars that everyone knows I love so much. Of course, I couldn’t resist airing tracks from the brand new albums of original punkers The Damned and former Sex Pistols bassist Glen Matlock. But it’s not all twofers on the show. There’s a “four-fer” of selections from the Record Store Day release of previously unreleased live Husker Du […]
The Ledge #565: Some More Home Plays
This week is another show devoted primarily to music I’ve been listening to around the house. The first half is dominated by new tracks recently sent to me by various labels, and sometimes the artists themselves. There’s a new tune from Sioux Falls’ own Thought Patrol. There’s Big Stir’s latest projects featuring former Standells leader Tony Valentino. There’s the usual handful of Rum Bar Records releases, including the return of The Short Fuses. The second half of the show are highlighted by recent box set releases of The Velvet Underground, Dead Moon, and the legendary live 2Tone Dance Craze soundtrack, along with favorites by the New York Dolls, The Mummies, The Creation, The Pretty Things, and Paul Revere & The Raiders. There’s almost 60 years of fabulous rock and roll! As for this week’s edition of “52 Weeks of Teenage Kicks”, I don’t have a lot of background information regarding the version by a band called Funeral Service. All I’ve managed to find out is that they were a French band that put their cover out in 1986 as the b-side to a version of the classic “Pills”. If you have any info on this band, please let me know. […]
The Ledge #562: First Quarter Report
As this is the last show of the first quarter of 2023, and even airing on the last day of the month, it’s only natural that we take a look back at some of the stunning new records released so far thsi year. It has been quite a year, especialy if you are a fan of guitar-driven music. Power pop, in particular, has made a great comeback this year, highlighted by the likes of The Whiffs, Local Drags, and Ryan Allen And His Extra Arms. But it’s also a great year for returning legends. Yo La Tengo, The Long Ryders, The Church, and Iggy Pop released their best albums in years. Billy Childish reunited the legendary Thee Headcoats for their first album in 22 years, and it’s a smoker! For this show, obviously, the main highlight comes from the “52 Weeks of Teenage Kicks” subtheme, and we received thrilling news earlier this week. The very first person I contacted when I came up with this idea was Malibu Lou from Rum Bar Records. Obviously, I was hoping that he could convince some of his bands to participate (and I still hope they do). What I wasn’t expecting was for Lou […]
The Ledge #557: 1998
It’s always shocking when you stumble upon tweets or articles noting the anniversary of beloved albums. You can’t help but wonder how something that seems like it came out yesterday is actually…well, old! That’s the case with tonight’s show. Every single song you hear is 25 years old. It’s just insane to me that some of my favorite Americana (Son Volt, Golden Smog, Drive-By Truckers), power pop (Sloan, Tommy Keene, Nada Surf), singer/songwriter (Elliott Smith, Silver Jews), and punk (Fugazi, Screeching Weasel, Bad Religion) records have hit this milestone. It just doesn’t feel like nostalgia As for the “52 Weeks of Teenage Kicks” entry, I’ve got a fabulous rarity. 1998 saw the release of Scandal Controvery and Romance, the classic debut record by The Prissteens. To celebrate the 45th birthday of their A&R rep, Howard Thompson, the pressed up 45 copies of a tribute song called “Oh Howard!”. The b-side of this single was their Undertones cover that featured a few lyrical changes and retitled “Teenage Dicks”. (Both of these tracks were eventually reissued on 2020’s The Hound collection of rarities and demos.) Once again, I’m always actively looking for new covers of “Teenage Kicks”. Please don’t hesitate to create your own personal […]
The Ledge #556: More Miscellany
This week’s show is once again a mix of old and new. There’s quite a few brand new releases highlighted, accompanied by quite a few records that I’ve found myself playing in my free time. Which leads me to a question to my lovely listeners. For as long as I’ve done the show, the presence of “themes” has been a constant. Honestly, that’s how my brain works best for picking music. It gives me a reason to air a tune. Even the monthly new release episode is basically a theme that’s just like shows based on certain years or terms. Lately, I have sort of abandoned the theme and played these kinds of old/new mixes. Part of this is that due to the fact that I now report a top ten playlist every week to the Radio Indie Alliance. I know I can submit any ten tracks I play but I’ve been paying even more attention to new music than usual. So this is what I want to find out from you guys. Do you like these freeform type of broadcasts or should I revert back to having a weekly theme? The themes aren’t going away entirely, no matter what […]
The Ledge #553: Miscellany
Every now and then it’s nice to have a show without any real theme, and that’s what we have tonight. Instead, it’s really just a collection of records I’ve been listening to over the last few weeks, and interesting collection of various genres that represent over 50 years of great rock and roll. There’s a handful of recent releases side by side with all time classics. There are veteran bands that are brand new to me, and relatively new artists that I’ve been obsessed with over the last few months. Of course, there’s also this week’s selection for the “52 Weeks of Teenage Kicks” subtheme. I’ve got a homegrown talent by the name of Link West, and his mainly acoustic version is a really nice change of pace. He also contributed a little piece of spoken word audio where he talks of his love of the song and his history of playing it in his original band in Columbus, Ohio. He describes the tune as “50% bubblegum, 50% booty call”. I can’t argue with that. Link West’s version marks a run of (at least) three straight weeks of listener contributions, but of course I always want more. Nothing would make […]
The Ledge #551: 1993
I have to admit that tonight’s show made me feel like an old man. Sure, I’ve done shows devoted to individual years on a regular basis, but I’ve fully understood that the songs featured on a broadcast like last week’s 1978 tribute were nostalgic looks at the past. But tonight’s show featuring (almost) nothing but tunes from 1993 didn’t feel like a nostalgia trip. These songs don’t feel like they are 30 years old. I swear they were released just a few years ago. Maybe it’s because I still have such a connection to records like Archers of Loaf’s Icky Mettle. Or the fact that Bikini Kill’s “Rebel Girl” still packs the same punch it did back when it was released. Plus, I’ve obviously spent plenty of time with all of the solo albums released by former members of The Replacements. Even this week’s second edition of my “52 Weeks of Teenage Kicks” dates back to 1993, and in a weird sort of twist was the reason I came up with this idea. As I said last week, I had earlier realized that I owned quite a few versions of the song. But I had read on Facebook that a great […]
The Ledge #548: Annual Rock and Roll Christmas Party!
The annual Ledge holiday special is probably the easiest show of the year to put together…but not for the reasons you probably assume. Yes, it would be a breeze to just cull tracks from the same favorite Christmas albums year after year. Nobody would even notice if I ever repeated a song or two. But I’m thrilled that year after year there is a plethora of new holiday tunes to check out. More and more artists put out Christmas albums. More and more labels put out new compilations. And, most importantly, more and more artists are using their bandcamp pages to put out surprise individual tracks that are quite often free! So this year’s show is, with a handful of exceptions, brand new tunes! If you enjoy great punk, indie, Americana, and power pop there should be something here for you. There’s also no silly novelty songs (well, maybe one). There’s no maudlin weepers. Musically, each and every song would fit at home on a “normal” episode of The Ledge. So crank this at your family gathering! I would love it if every listener bought at least one record I played on either of these shows. These great artists deserve […]
The Ledge #546: Runners Up
The process of compiling my annual list of the year’s best albums rarely varies. It usually begins in mid-November with a combination of notetaking and mental obsessing. Then over Thanksgiving weekend I begin putting ideas into various categories that I couldn’t even try to explain. Finally, the first couple of weeks of December sees this list finally coming together. As you may expect, that initial list is much longer than the official post of the best of the year. There can be anywhere between 60 and 100 records vying for inclusion. This week’s show comprises the 31 records that were in consideration before that final cut. But that’s not to say that these records are not as good as my “chart toppers”. No, these days there’s a fine line between a what makes the top ten and what makes the lower rungs. All of these records are fabulous albums that deserve to be heard by everybody. This is why the first time ever I’ve put together this “runners up” episode. I would love it if every listener bought at least one record I played on either of these shows. These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, […]
The Ledge #541: Halloween Spooktacular
I may say this every year but it is worth repeating. Halloween is the ultimate rock and roll holiday. Like truly great rock and roll, Halloween is dangerous, controversial, and noisy. Religious idiots for decades have claimed both are associated with …
The Ledge #531: New Releases (Pt. 2)
I may have called part one of this month’s new release series the “friends of the show” episode, but that mentality continues in part two as we have a nice set of tracks from our friends at Big Stir Records. We also have brand new tr…
The Ledge #511: New Releases (Pt. 2)
While part one of this month’s new release series focused on relatively new artists, this week’s successor is full of bands that have been around for quite some time. There’s the first album in over 30 years by The Rave Ups. The Hood…
The Ledge #510: New Release (Pt. 1)
It became apparent a couple of weeks ago that this month’s new release series would have to be a two part extravaganza. Not only were the quantity of new songs piling up, but there were also quite a few albums that deserved more than a track or two of airtime. So the decision was easy, but then how does one split the shows? There’s no real formua to what was aired tonight and what will be held back until next week. Tonight’s show probably features more of the types of artists who are easily found on Bandcamp, which is fitting since March 4 was another of the great bandcamp days where the artist gets 100% of the proceeds of their sales. But otherwise the quality between both sets of tunes is pretty similar, as you’ll see during next week’s second part. I would love it if every listener bought at least one record I played on either of these shows. These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every purchase surely helps not only pay their bills but fund their next set of wonderful songs. And if you buy these records directly from the artist or […]
The Ledge #509: RIP Mark Lanegan and Don Craine
This week’s show was originally going to be another in the series of “odds and ends” episodes where I air tracks from some record I’ve either recently acquired or pulled out of the archives to give a listen. Unfortunately, the deaths of two great rockers changed those plans. Mark Lanegan is in my opinion the most artistic of all of the grunge-era lead vocalists. While the vast majority of his brethren rarely travelled out of their safe zone, Lanegan was a musical shape shifter throughout his entire career. There was simply not a genre he wouldn’t attempt, nor did it seem like he ever said no to a collaborator. The first half of the show consists of long sets devoted to his solo career and also a taste of those collaborations. Then just a couple of hours before showtime came the news that Downliners Scet leader Don Craine had also passed away. Never heard of the Sect? You’re loss. Please go do some research after listening to tonight’s show. The set dedicated to him not only includes some of the great tracks of their mid-60s glory years but also a couple of great collaborations with Billy Childish. Filling up the […]
The Ledge #502: Best Records of 2021 NYE Countdown
So your favorite online radio DJ decided to spend a bitterly cold New Year’s Eve playing over six hours of the best music of 2021. But what else would I have done? New Year’s Eve is amateur night, and I haven’t ventured out of my house for the big night in years. With the big night lining up with a Ledge weekly broadcast, the decision to do a “Casey Kasem” was easy. So this show is a true marathon. First off, there’s a countdown of the 20 best reissues, box sets, compilations, and tribute albums of the year. Then there’s a countdown of the 40 best albums of 2021, and we hit the stroke of midnight in the eastern and central time zones with tracks from some of the great singles and EP’s of the year, along with tunes from a number of great albums that barely missed the cut of making the big countdown. Honestly, while the world is melting down we are somehow seeing a cultural renaissance. How else could I put together a six hour playlist of nothing but music from the past year? It’s simply incredible how much wonderful music is coming out on a weekly […]
The Ledge #501: Annual Rock & Roll Christmas Party
The goal of the annual Ledge Christmas extravaganza is to prove that holiday music doesn’t have to suck. And once again, it’s certainly true as the vast majority of rock, punk, garage, and Americana tracks are brand new songs specifically f…
The Ledge #496: New Releases (Pt. 1)
Once again, the wealth of quality new music means that this month’s new release episode is expanding into a two-part series! This week is dominated by artists and labels that can accurately be described as “friends of the show” – artists such as Dave Sheinin, Dan Israel, Old Town Crier, along with our label friends at Big Stir Records, Red On Red Records, and, of course, Rum Bar Records! But there’s also something special for fans of The Replacements! Well, of course there is. This show isn’t named after one of their songs for no reason! Two weeks ago saw the reissue of their very first album, Sorry Ma, Forgot to Take Out the Trash. 100 tracks, 67 of them previously unreleased. Those who purchased the box at the Electric Fetus in Minneapolis, however, also received a bonus flexidisc with four more unreleased versions. Thanks to Ledge listener Jim Portesan, tonight’s episode includes those four rarities, along with a miniset of songs from the concert disc of the box. I would love it if every listener bought at least one record I played on either of these shows. These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every purchase surely […]
The Ledge #491: New Releases (Pt. 1)
It’s almost a given that if Rum Bar Records puts out a sampler, that month’s Ledge “New Release” show will be a two parter, and this month is no exception. Thanks to “Rocktober II”, the massive 38 track collection of…
The Ledge #490: Songs About Actors
The idea for this show actually came about earlier this summer when I noticed that over the last few months I had acquired a number of songs about various movie stars. Over the next few days, with the help of a bunch of Facebook friends, I put together more than enough tracks that fit this theme. Tonight’s supersized show is the results of hours and hours of research, and consists of songs about not only classic Hollywood royalty such as Myrna Loy, Joan Crawford, Robert Mitchum, and Clark Gable but relatively recent stars like Keira Knightley, Winona Ryder, Timothy Chalamet, and Emma Stone. It’s a show that jumps from acoustic-based singer/songwriters to classic rockers to some outrageous punk rock. BTW, it should also be noted that the intro voice of the Ledge, Max, is now a high school student who has an opportunity to spend a few days in New York City with his school’s performing arts department. Please consider helping him out by donating at his Gofundme page. (https://www.gofundme.com/f/maxwell-to-nyc) I would love it if every listener bought at least one record I played on either of these shows. These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every […]
The Ledge #488: New Releases
This is the type of new release show that should appeal to all veteran Ledge listeners. New music by Lydia Loveless! A Stones cover by Brad Marino. A set of nothing but great power pop from Big Stir Records. Always great tunes from Rum Bar Records. Wil…
The Ledge #487: Charlie Watts RIP
The death of Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts earlier this week created an obvious opportunity for The Ledge to celebrate his almost 60 years of playing behind fellow Stones members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. But, of course, I didn’t go the obvious route. You don’t get two hours of the band’s greatest hits. You don’t even get the most well known covers of the band. No, instead this tribute consists primarily of bands that fit the true spirit of the “Greatest Rock and Roll Band in the World”. The tracks consist of a ton of live encores of Americana artists, garage rock versions recorded for various tribute albums, and a handful of B-sides and other bonus material. Oh yes, and a drunken cover or three found on Replacements’ bootlegs. Rest in peace, Charlie. You will be missed. I would love it if every listener bought at least one record I played on either of these shows. These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every purchase surely helps not only pay their bills but fund their next set of wonderful songs. And if you buy these records directly from the artist or label, please let […]
The Ledge #486: Odds and Ends
The “odds and ends” format seems to have worked the last few times I’ve done it, so why not do another show of this type? For those new to The Ledge, the show consists of material I’ve been listening to in my home over the last few days. Some selections are faves from a few years ago that I haen’t pulled out in a while (Sarah Shook, Lydia Loveless). Others are recent purchases that don’t quite fit the new release shows (live Bob Mould, Minus 5, Young Fresh Fellows). Add to that my recent fascination over everything involving Ncio, thanks to the new book, You Are Beautiful and You Are Alone by Jennifer Otter Bickerdike, and you get a handful of tracks featuring her beautiful, haunted vocals. Of course, news of a new box set including previously unreleased tracks by The Replacements takes priority over everything. This October, a 40th anniversary reissue of their first album, Sorry Ma Forgot to Take Out the Trash will hit the stores, and features 100 tracks, 67 of them previously unreleased. Expect to hear a lot from this in the next few months! I would love it if every listener bought at least one […]
The Ledge #477: Summer Means Fun (Plus Recovered Bonus Show)
On last week’s new release broadcast I had attempted to right a wrong. I definitely missed the boat on the fabulous Minneapolis band Low Rats blend of “proto-punk meets ’90s garage rock style”, as reviewer Carolyn Keddy recently wrote. Their full-length debut, Year of the Rat MMXX came out late last year, and last week they debuted a brand new “double-dose” single, “Taxi Driver/Brand New Cadillac”. I was so pleased to finally give some of their tunes a little airplay. And then guess what happened? I had an issue with the file, and I couldn’t upload the episode. Ugh!!! So this week I tried again, and I actually played a couple more songs than I did the week before. And, as an added bonus, I’ve also included a couple of tracks from vocalist Michael Myers’ previous band, Narco States, who I interviewed wasy back in 2015. The rest of this week’s show consists of music I’ve been playing around the house the last fw weeks. There are well over 60 years of tunes on this broadcast, including some stories I’ve picked up from a couple of books I’ve recently acquired. And you fine people also get as a bonus the […]
The Ledge #475: New Releases (Pt. 2)
This week’s show may be a sequel to last week’s new release episode, but there’s no letdown in quality. Here are two hours of some of the best new music from all over the world – not only the U.S. but Canada, England, Sweden, Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and Spain. There’s some pure punk, along with power pop, heavy rock, indie rock, and much more. There are longtime veterans with five decades of rocking, along with some brand new bands with their first releases. One of the many highlights is the opening set that includes a handful of newly-discovered tracks by an obscure band called The Jacks. Originating in Oklahoma, one member of the band found himself living in Minneapolis. Working in a record store allowed him to befriend members of The Replacements, Husker Du, and The Suicide Commandos. Recordings featuring these amazing musicians have now been released on the album “Make ‘Em Cry”. We also have the premiere of three tracks from Geoff Palmer’s upcoming album, “Charts & Graphs”. Due out on July 23, this fantastic collection of power poppish punk should be a highlight of the summer. There’s also new tunes by Dropkick Murphys, The Dictators, Juliana Hatfield, […]
The Ledge #470: Playing Catch Up
It’s always rewarding when a confluence of ideas results in a show that has a perfect flow. That’s what happened this week. This show began with a slight nudging from a couple of acts that had submitted tracks earlier this year that had just not yet found a place in a show. Add to that a couple of great records featuring Dirty Truckers drummer John Lynch that he sent when we were putting together the Rum Bar Records episode. Then a section of super sweet, relatively new records were discovered at a local record store. I’m talking about mint 2020 releases that I had missed out on when they were first put out. Adding to that secton of the show are a few other 2019 and 2020 albums that I was late in discovering, along with a couple of fabulous archive releases and suddenly I have two hours of great music for tonight! After listening, please go purchase those tracks you enjoy! These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every purchase surely helps not only pay their bills but fund their next set of wonderful songs. And if you buy these records directly from the […]
The Ledge #468: First Quarter Report
Since we are just a few days away from April, it makes sense that the last episode of the month is a look back at the first quarter of 2021. What albums, EP’s and singles have caught my attention? Has it been a great year?
The answer is the same …
The Ledge #467: Rum Bar Records
Loyalty is an important word in my life. I try to be as loyal as possible to not only friends and family, but also the bands that I love. I’m even loyal to certain record labels. In the 80’s it was Twin/Tone and SST. Merge and a few others fit that category in the 90’s, and I’ve got a handful of current labels these days whose artists I will always check out. One of those is Rum Bar Records. No label has been more loyal to what I do with The Ledge than Rum Bar Records. Head honcho “Malibu” Lou Mansdorf has not only kept me in the loop with his constantly growing stable of releases, but he also routinely tosses a care package of physical releases to my mailbox. It’s because of people like Lou that this show has continued to prosper for over a decade. But it also turns out that loyalty is an important word to Mansdorf, as proven by the testimonials from his artists that pop up throughout this marathon all-Rum Bar broadcast. Most have been his friends for decades, but even recent signing have nothing but glowing words for him. Tonight’s show features tracks from the entire […]
The Ledge #466: Home Plays
I have to admit that I get too hung up on themes. Obviously, the new release episode is always going to be a part of the lineup, but I really don’t have to create a basis for my weekly music choices. I actually wish that I could think in terms of just randomly airing songs that fir my mood for the day. This week I actually attempt such a show, but there’s still sort of a theme. These are all records that I’ve been listening to in my spare time. One is a newly-unearthed Rolling Stones bootleg. There’s tracks from a great compilation of late 60’s rockers from The Dakotas. There’s a new Neil Young live album from his vast archives. But the freedom of this loose theme is that I did throw in some songs that I have never aired before. That Soiuxsie and the Banshees album that I happened to grab at the record store a few weeks ago? Sure, why not. The Lloyd Cole track from the box set I ordered directly from Lloyd? Yep. A great 2018 album by The Conquerors that my friend Dan recommended? Of course. And I just had to air a couple […]
The Ledge #465: New Releases
It’s the first Friday of the month, so you know what this means. Yes, once again I have over two hours of the best new indie, garage, power pop, punk, and Americana releases. Plenty of veteran acts, and even more brand new artists. If you care ab…
The Ledge #461: New Releases (Pt. 1)
Few things make a music critic/internet DJ happier than a package of new music, and I’m blessed to have the support of so many bands and labels. Whenever I receive an email that includes a link to a single or album, or find a packet in my mailbox, I immediately put it in the front of my pile of music to check out. As I was putting together this month’s new release episode, I suddenly noticed just how many great records I’ve received in the past few weeks. So why not do an entire show bassed on artist/label submissions? That’s what we have here this week. Some are from individual artists (Dan Israel, Jeremy Porter, Indonesian Junk, New Rocket Union, etc.) that want me to check out their new tunes. Others are because I’ve found myself on a label’s mailing list. I definitely need to thank Big Stir Records, Red on Red Records, and Rum Bar Records, who really knocked it out of the park with not one but two free samplers of current and upcoming new releases! After listening, please go purchase those tracks you enjoy! These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every […]
The Ledge #456: Lockdown Christmas
Everybody’s favorite holiday tradition is back as once again The Ledge annual Christmas show brings you the best rockin’ holiday tunes in this supersized show! What’s great about this show is that it’s not a show relying on tun…
The Ledge #451: 1990
It may be a cliche, especially compared to the dumpster fire of this year, but it was definitely a simpler time for me in 1990. It was a year that I sort of became an adult. Sort of are the key words here. It was also a year of musical transition for me, as it was the year of the last Replacements album and the year of Uncle Tupelo’s debut album. For the next few years, “Americana” became my leading musical force. With a few exceptions, of course. (Both of these recors, The Replacements’ “All Shook Down” and Uncle Tupelo’s “No Depression”, get an extended look during tonight’s show.) This week’s show takes a look at much of what was in my gigantic portable CD carrier during that year. Yes, I had one of those 64 disc cases that went with me wherever I went. One has to be prepared, you know. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy this nostalgic look at my personal music taste from that era. After listening, please go purchase those tracks you enjoy! These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every purchase surely helps not only pay their bills but fund their next […]
The Ledge #449: Halloween
The Halloween episode has been an important part of The Ledge calendar year for over a decade. Outside of maybe one or two years, there has always been a show during the week before the great holiday featuring fantastic Hallowen-themed punk, garage, indie, power pop, and almost every other rock and roll sub-genre. Why is this such a big show? It’s simple, and I’ve said it before. Halloween is a rock and roll holiday. The very themes of the big day have been a part of rock and roll since the early days. The sound of an electric guitar itself fits the day, as does the pounding, basic rhythms of the real rock and roll. It also helps that every year sees the release of a ton of tracks that can be shoehorned into the theme. In fact, the overwhelming majority of songs on this year’s edition were released in the last ten months, which obviously adds to the freshness of this show every single year! After listening, please go purchase those tracks you enjoy! These great artists deserve to be compensated for their hard work, and every purchase surely helps not only pay their bills but fund their next […]
The Ledge #447: Covers
On one of my laptops I have a folder where I toss in any cover versions that I think could possibly include in a Ledge episode. Once that folder has a sufficient number of songs I know it’s time to do a covers show.
This is that time. The folder …
The Ledge #446: New Releases
Due to Gorman Bechard’s appearance last week, this month’s new release episode was bumped back a week. But this delay turned out to be for the benefit of the show, as it allowed for me to include some brand new tracks by The Replacements. W…
The Ledge #443:Scott’s Favorite Records, Vol. 6
As it’s my birthday today it’s only fitting that I put together another in my series of favorite songs of all time. This time around, it’s primarily songs from the 90’s, although a handful of songs actually come from records rel…
The Ledge #426: New Releases
Another month, another collection of great new music. Unlike previous editions, though, this month’s show features a ton of one-off single releases of tracks recorded under quarantine. In fact, just minutes before The Ledge went to air on Realpun…
The Ledge #425: Rock ‘n’ Roll Women
When I was putting together this month’s new release episodes I decided that it was time to also do another all-female episode of The Ledge. Both of those episodes had multiple sets of nothing but rocking women, as did previous months this year.
…
The Ledge #419: Live Albums, Vol. 2
Part one of The Ledge Live Albums series featured my picks (with a little agreement from my friends). Tonight’s belongs to those who responded to a Facebook post from last month (plus a couple of emails and tweets). It’s quite a bit fun, st…
The Ledge #418: New Releases
The monthly new release shows are easily my favorite episodes, and this month’s is no exception. As always, it’s a great mix of brand new bands, returning veterans, and some great recent discoveries. There’s so much great new music th…
Live Ledge #406: Best Albums of 2019
Once again we wrap up a great year in music with our annual countdown of the 40 best albums of 2019.
Live Ledge #375: New Releases (Pt. 2)
A continuation of last week’s comprehensive look at recent releases that travels all over the world.
Live Ledge #369: New Releases
The first Friday of every month is devoted to new releases, and there’s a ton of great music to check out this month.
Live Ledge #346: Food
Obviously, we all need food, and you now need to hear this collection of songs about food.
Live Ledge #254: Lydia Loveless Interview
Coinciding with the release of her new album, “Real”, host Scott Hudson talks to Lydia Loveless about songwriting, recording, and being the subject of a documentary movie.
Live Ledge #199: 1985
Hudson takes a trip back 30 years to night with a show featuring nothing but music from 1985.
Live Ledge #198: Number 5
Since we’re in the fifth month of the year, why not a show dedicated to nothing but track five of some fantastic albums?
Live Ledge #192: Trio In a Row
Completing a trio of shows, tonight’s playlist features nothing but three consecutive classic tracks in a row.
Live Ledge #105: Then And Now
Two tracks per artist – one old and one new. It’s a simple concept, but fun!
Live Ledge #100: Falls Landing
To celebrate the 100th episode, Hudson took the show on the road to Falls Landing to play nothing but his favorite songs of all time.
Rural Ledge-ucation #89: Bitter Tears
A companion piece to Friday’s “lonely” episode, this morning is nothing but “bitter” tunes.
Live Ledge #99: Lonely Boy
To “commemorate” a phony holiday, tonight’s show is an anti-Valentine’s Day show with nothing but “lonely” songs.
Rural Ledge-ucation #88: More New Finds
Today’s show is a companion to last Friday’s Live Ledge. That show consisted of my noisier new finds. Today we focus on the quieter new releases.
Live Ledge #98: New Finds
It’s that time of the month again! More new releases and blog finds!
Live Ledge #97: Tributes
Inspired by a Lydia Loveless song called “Steve Earle”, tonight’s show is nothing but songs about other artists.
Live Ledge #95: 2013
The first show of 2013 is all new releases and new finds!
Live Ledge #94: Janitor Bob
Pat McIntyre and Martin Dill from Janitor Bob join Scott, followed by an hour of old Sioux Falls indie rock.
Live Ledge #93: Christmas
Besides talking about the St. Paul Graham Parker concert Scott saw earlier this week, tonight is all about punk rock Christmas songs. For the 3rd straight year, Hudson ignores the sentimental garbage and piles on the edgier side of the holidays.
Rural Ledge-ucation #81: Best Reissues of 2012
Friday night, I unveiled my list of best 2012 albums. This morning, it’s all about the reissues, box sets, and other compilations of the past 12 months.
Live Ledge #91: Gorman Bechard Interview
Director Gorman Bechard returns to Live Ledge to discuss the DVD releases of Color Me Obsessed and What Did You Expect?, and to also talk about his next project, A Dog Named Gucci.
Live Ledge #89: Black Friday Sucks!
Two hours of songs against the travesty of Black Friday, and the cretins who make it out to shop when they should still be sleeping.
Live Ledge #88: The In Crowd
A jam-packed show tonight, full of new tunes, blog finds, and discussions of the Hostess situation and the new Rolling Stones documentary, Crossfire Hurricane.
Live Ledge #87: More New Finds
Lots and lots of new releases and blog finds, plus Siri co-hosts a segment and picks a song.
Rural Ledge-ucation #76: Election Day
Two days away from the U.S. elections, Hudson compiled some of his favorite politician-related tracks.
Live Ledge #86: Chuck Berry’s Belated Birthday
Health issues prevented me from celebrating Chuck Berry’s 86th birthday on October 18, so we celebrated it tonight with rarities and great cover versions.
Rural Ledge-ucation #75: Matthew Ryan Interview
Two days before the release of his excellent new album, In the Dusk of Everything, Matthew Ryan woke up early on a Sunday to talk about the new album and share some of his favorite bands and tunes.
Rural Ledge-ucation #74: New Stuff
Along with some of Scott’s walking soundtrack, there’s lots of new releases to air today.
Live Ledge #84: Anniversaries
This week marked plenty of rock ‘n’ roll anniversaries, both good and bad. We plow through them all.
Rural Ledge-ucation #72: 1st World Problems
Scott has plenty of things to whine about today, but also some great recent releases.
Rural Ledge-ucation #71: Paul & Ryan
Debut plays of new tracks by Paul Westerberg and Matthew Ryan highlight this playlist of primarily “fall” songs.
Live Ledge #82: Green Day
Ash from The Big Brother Gossip Show joins Scott tonight to discuss the merits of the new Green Day album, Uno.
Rural Ledge-ucation #70: White Light White Heat
All new releases today, bracketed by covers of White Light/White Heat from the Lawless soundtrack.
Live Ledge #81: Family Tree
Besides the usual new releases, blog finds, and old faves, tonight’s show features a number of “family trees” – sets that include spinoffs and solo projects of some of my fave bands.
Live Ledge #80: Life Story (Pt. 1)
With a big day coming up this week, host Scott Hudson has selected one song per year that he has been alive. Sunday’s Rural Ledge-ucation will conclude the series.
Rural Ledge-ucation #68: Labor Day
It’s a celebration of Labor Day, but we also mourn the of the end of summer on today’s Rural Ledge-ucation!
Rural Ledge-ucation #67: More New Finds
Friday’s Live Ledge was all about the noisier releases I’ve acquired in recent weeks. Today’s Rural Ledge-ucation focuses on the quieter new stuff.
Live Ledge #78: New Finds
Tonight’s show features a ton of new and upcoming releases, along with quite a few rare finds.
Live Ledge #77: The Kinks
In response to NBC’s idiotic decision to not air Ray Davies at the Olympic Closing Ceremonies, tonight’s show is nothing but tunes by The Kinks!
Rural Ledge-ucation #65: Waterloo Sunset
A mishmash of sounds this morning, including a birthday tribute to Elliott Smith.
Live Ledge #76: Peel Sessions (Pt. 2)
Continuing with the Peel Sessions theme, tonight’s show includes not only great Brit acts but American bands who contributed to the series.
Rural Ledge-ucation #64: Bootlegs
Nothing but live recordings and studio demos for this short Sunday morning set!
Live Ledge #75: Peel Sessions (Pt. 1)
Nothing but tunes from the late, great John Peel archive!
