Category: Notes

Lists of songs from each show

Deep Dive #129 Show Notes

August 23, 2026August 19, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
Lonesome Tonight	Bow Wow Wow	1983	Willis	New Wave, Pop Rock	Although not a BWW fan, I felt a deep dive would be fun. Little did I know that Annabella Lwin was only 15 when they released “I Want Candy”, and discovered singing in a dry cleaners at 13. I had heard about Boy George’s start in this band, but didn’t know he went by “Lieutenant Lush”. Neither did I know their drummer David Barbarossa was stolen from Adam and the Ants and studied Burundi tribal drumming which was core to Bow Wow Wow’s sound. For the backstory alone, It’s too bad they only released 2 full albums, neither of which are well presented on streaming platforms. She got fired after this album and tour, the band broke up, regrouped, and then split in two different groups named BWW. This song has punk energy with the dynamic guitar work, rocking “whoa whoa”, even the silly plucked chords “boop boop boop boop” are something I can play, but concisely convey anxiety.	I’m so glad you picked them. Admittedly, I almost shunned this band & unfairly considered them a blatant rip off of Adam & The Ants, and further to the point in yr notes, even went so far to steal members and the ‘tribal’ look (thx to Malcolm McClaren). Several songs are great, don’t get me wrong, I just had an odd ‘thing’ about them. But listening now, I can see I clearly missed some deeper cut gems! I can say i LOVE this, and will now pull out the record for listening this weekend lol.
Kings of the Wild Frontier	Adam & The Ants	1980	Gregg	Tribal /Post Punk/New Wave	Like BWW, I could never find a proper approach to Adam or the Ants, and chose avoidance. Maybe his timbre was too punk-rebel for me, but that energy oddly integrates with the cowboys and indians vibe. The drumming energy stands out, and like BWW works well in a mix of other music.	It only makes sense to fully immerse ourselves in these 2 bands, back to back. This is considerably more ‘tribal’ than BWW, but the template for both bands is the same. I’m often amazed at how adventurous Adam Ant was at this point in time. Music didn’t sound like this! It was almost alien, if not for the old cowboys & indians movies that featured Native Americans singing in this style. But to make it melodic is stunning. And then the climax is insane; When Adam sings *“Down below those dandy clothes you’re just a shade too white. SHADE TOO WHITE!”,* it makes me want to jump onto the battlefield with him. It’s so passionate and sincere. It’s easy to see how Trent Reznor took inspiration from Adam Ant.
Dope on a Rope	The Growlers	2016	Willis	Indie Rock	Streaming algorithms are doing their job here. They call their style “Beach Goth” blending surf, pop, rock, and beat and even hosted a festival for about 8 years. Vocals in the realm of Tom Petty, which are not usually my cup of tea, but their guitar work generally stand out. This song in particular has a vocal layering and effects that hit like Paul Banks. Guitar melodies are reminiscent of Johnny Marr. A theremin and synth that sneak in during the chorus as a nice electronic surprise.	So cool to see the Growlers make the Deep Dive! I have a loose affiliation with them, due to my friend / label partner Buck – who managed them and got them signed. So I guess technically they were part of our label, in a small way lol. They had several good-to-great albums, but I kinda lost track around 2015. I remember this album, but I wasn’t familiar with this track. It’s got a great, driving groove – and the melody is very poppy (surprisingly). Reminds me of early-mid Strokes, but also a more mainstream Spoon. I’m totally feeling this at this precise moment, late Friday night. Their earlier stuff is much more like psych 60’s garage rock, which was cool but less polished.
Days Go By	Sean Nicholas Savage	2011	Gregg	Retro Pop /Indie /City Pop	Confident warm vocals turned slightly imperfect is so indie. Simple rhythmic acoustic guitar and tom tom accents on the drum beat. This production resembles either a stretched tape (like Nocera from last show) but this has to be intentional. Also feels like a bootleg recording of a live show on a bandshell stage. It is endearingly classic and nostalgic, if not maddening to a technophile like me.	A breezy, summer morning song. Feels like it was written and recorded in 1968. I wish I could remember when or where I found this, but for some reason it has remained in my orbit via playlists for 15 years. I can never put my finger on who he sounds like, but he also sounds like so many and like nobody (at the same time). My musical synesthesia takes me to old memories, but in a photo album form; Pages turning with non-descript, sepia toned pictures that might not even be my own family. But someone’s family, and it gives me a warm feeling and a hint of melancholy.
Goodnight Moon	Shivaree	2000	Willis	Alt-Pop/Rock, Americana	I found this song on an old Capitol records sampler called “Bear Essentials” which has a lot of forgotten music. This is the best track on it. Featured in Dawson’s Creek, Kill Bill Vol 2, and Silver Linings Playbook. Vocalist Ambrosia Parsley sings like Gwen Stefani’s older sister mixed with Nina Persson from The Cardigans. As a No Doubt fan, I found myself listening to all 3 of their albums on repeat without fatigue. The mood is mysterious, slightly psychedelic Americana from the instrumentation such as this theremin and tremolo guitar.	Interesting! New to me, for sure. I agree 100% about the psych-americana tag! It’s mildly poppy and straightforward, but with just the right touch of weird & mysterious. It feels like a theme song to a tv show. I wasn’t sure where it would go – but the casual flow actually suits the song. It keeps enough of the Nancy Sinatra vibe, and staves off the obvious Gwen Stefani similarity.
Bach Ze	The High Llamas	1999	Gregg	Baroque /60’s Sndtrk /Orchestral pop	Another band I thought I found on my own while previewing this show and immediately began exploring for the next show…. only to realize it is already here on your list. Intentionally weird, with minor keys and dissonant melodies – but often warm production and occasional electronic glitches, sometimes hazy auto-tune.	Arguably the most distinct + unique thing I’ve ever brought to the Deep Dive. I started a love affair with this band in 2001, and my love has only blossomed with time. Imagine the Beach Boys, Steely Dan and Burt Bacharach writing period-piece soundtracks with Stereolab producing. It’s truly incredible how brilliantly written these songs are, with boundless changes and melody shifts and hooks weaving in and out. All with a soft orchestration that sounds like every European 60’s film. The lyrics are written about moments in time in small villages, many decades ago – and are never about love. I also find it fascinating that Sean O’Hagan never uses the word “I”, which automatically brings you somewhere different, and makes you feel a part of these fictional places. This isn’t near their most adventurous pieces, but it’s most appropriate for our show.
Birds of a Feather, We Rock Together	Vulfpeck [ feat. Antwaun Stanley]	2017	Willis	Contemporary Funk / R&B Soul, Minimalist	A collective rooted with several U. of Michigan alums, based in LA making a fun,modern/sophisticated blend of funk-soul. They once raised $20k in Spotify royalties by releasing an album called Sleepify of silent tracks for fans to stream on repeat all night. This funded a 6-city tour with free admission. Alicia heard the funky “Back Pocket” and we were both intrigued by the cold German-sounding name with overt soul and positive energy. This song is way more downtempo than most of their work, but shows their dynamic expertise and sweet vocals that are top notch IMHO for a baritone. A strong consideration to watch live: Oct 16,17 @ The Greek Theatre	Jeez dude – how has this not been in my sights for so long? The production is genius, esp in good headphones. The drums cloak like a horse’s hooves, which sounds almost hypnotic. The vocals kinda compete with the snare (hooves), but the mix separates them beautifully. There is a slight “Taxi” feel to the hammond (or whatever keyboard they’re using) and the wah wah’d guitars. Infectious. Gets better as it goes. Minimalist, but not lacking for energy, and the instruments fill a lot of space.
Why Can’t We Live Together	Timmy Thomas	1972	Gregg	Minimalist /Soul /Dub	Very good match vocally to previous song.I had never heard of Timmy Thomas before. This latin drum loop predates the Roland 808… Casio-tone is exactly what I thought of also, except neither of those produced realistic sounding percussion like this. So live makes sense. The organ notes are masterfully played – with attack and abrupt cutoff that feel like either tense anxiety, or unbridled groove… choose your own adventure.	Has there ever been a song like this, before or after? It seems ludicrous that a simple drum loop (which sounds like a preset on a casio keyboard, but is actually played acoustically/live) with a loosely played pipe organ and some random groovy bass would provide more than enough for a soulful voice to sing over. Knowing the fatigue I get listening to modern pop music, it boggles my mind that a song like this could become a nationwide smash hit in 1972. Could you imagine this next to Drake, Sabrina Carpenter or Katy Perry nowadays? Lol. It’s a work of minimalist art. And so f’n badass.
Shadows, Pt. 2	Blue Man Group	2003	Willis	Alt / Electronic Rock	Inspired by Vegas show. It is so visual, physical and clown-like. It’s a lot to absorb live and the music must share the stage, yet their percussion and musicality is on another level. So I think just listening is an experience in itself. Features vocals by Tracy Bonham and turntablism by Rob Swift of X-Ecutioners. I wish it were developed as a song even further, but it’s a cool vibe regardless.	This all came back around so nicely! Piggybacking with the prior song, it feels like the Wizard of Oz when it went from B&W to Color! I’m very familiar with BMG, but I don’t think I’ve heard this one. In fact, I’ve probably only heard 10% of their catalog. But seeing them live was one of the cooler things I’ve experienced on (off)Broadway. The musicianship is so high level, it’s almost sinful that their “schtick” overshadows their skill.
Zeus	Midnight Magic	2026	Gregg	Electronic /Kraut /Neo Disco	I immediately love this. I absolutely hear LCD and Juan Maclean, with roots from The Human League but really it’s that female vocals in the Disco style. The bassline is trancey, yet the spacey disco groove is so uplifting. It would be cool to dance to them live.	When this song first played on the air, I had to check & see if it was The Juan Maclean. It could also sound like LCD Soundsystem and Kraftwerk (and Moroder). But it’s luscious just the same. It’s repetitive in a way that lulls you into a zone. Almost like when you’re on a moving surface, and not thinking how when you step off, you might need to keep running or else you’ll fall over. But you’re too ‘in the zone’ to think about anything else. This borders on relentless, but in the best way possible (for me). The oscillating synth sounds are so soothing to my ears.

Follow these links to listen to these songs (without us talking) on the following platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #128 Show Notes

August 16, 2026August 14, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
That’s Entertainment (Remastered)	The Jam	1980	Willis	Post-Punk	I heard the Morrissey cover first, and like his take on it (compliments his voice), but this original feels more raw and I especially like how the guitar and bass carry the rhythm and the drum takes a back seat. The production is seemingly minimalist, almost cheap – yet still with and subtle refinements of stereo separation and just kinda missing the low end that we hear so much of these days. The cooing “ahh-ahh’s” really temper the melancholic grey lyrics and add a touch of heart and soul.	In the words of Tears for Fears in their classic song Sowing the Seeds of Love, “Kick out the Style, bring back the Jam!”. I always liked Style Council, but I don’t think Paul Weller ever came close to the heights he reached with The Jam. This band was pure Post Punk bliss, and basically helped draw the road map for all alternative music of the 80’s & 90’s. They were bratty, they were smart, and they had something to say. However, unlike most “punks”, they had a penchant for melody and structure, which separated them from the Pistols and others.
Sodajerk	Buffalo Tom	1993	Gregg	Post Grunge Power PopIndie	Totally recognized this song from one of Katrina’s old mix cd’s (with the Pogues, The Smiths, XTC, REM, Radiohead, Violent Femmes, Dido). Catchy, powerful (hitting those drums and guitars hard!), I like their vocals though never read them – so this will be interesting and informative to read along.	Decided to stay in that same era for a band that I’ve tried to include for so many months now. Another “regional” band that was pretty big in the Northeast for 6 or so years, but had minimal radio support. This song was their only “hit”, thanks to inclusion in My So Called Life tv show & soundtrack. This song is poppy and catchy, while still authentically “alternative” (All while wearing the love for The Replacements’ proudly on their sleeves). Every song on this album was good, but this song captures innocent love between shy indie kids so perfectly: *“Watch an eyeball, take a freefall, with the mention of a name. In its socket, like a rocket, it rises just the same.”*
Stars All Seem to Weep	Beth Orton	1999	Willis	Folktronica, Trip-Hop	Realizing we have not featured any of her solo work on DD, I chose this song , and I think I might have heard it on HFD the very next day. – so it was fate. Her new album just released, and reveals a lower, raspier voice that she will be touring North America with this fall. I had to double take, and then longed for her higher notes now gone. Side note: Although not exactly the same vocally, we saw Kelly Clarkson’s show in Vegas this past weekend. Although ten years younger than Beth Orton, at her vocal range and power at 44 is better than ever.	I nearly got choked up when I saw this choice. Not only do i adore Beth and her early records – but this might very well be my favorite song of hers. Stellar choice brother. As i’ve stated in the past, she bounces between subtle, heartsick folk ballads and experimental electronic/trip hop soundscapes with relative ease. Hearing this simple, thick beat is euphoric to me. It’s almost clearing a path with brut strength for the delicate vocals that follow it. Then the simple tremolo’d strings and dubby samples provide a base along with the very distant acoustic picking, to keep this song very bare-bones, while also being trippy as hell. Her voice tears me apartt in this one. *“I think about you in the moonlit night, and the stars all seem to weep”.* Oh my goodness. I wish I wrote that line.
Essex_Honey.mp3	Blood Orange	2026	Gregg	Drum & BassPsych Soul /Atmospheric	Although I didn’t recognize the sample, I remember a different line from that same verse. I can totally get how a certain line triggers a solid connection. I like how the use of DnB beats in an almost ambient way to contrast the ballad/downtempo soul feel of this song. Hard to classify! Performing 3 nights in a row at the Warfield Sept. 9,10,11	When I first heard this, I almost lost my mind. It starts so spacey and hypnotic, and then comes this juggernaut of a Jungle beat, followed by a 4 on the floor thump that could shake concrete foundations. But nothing prepared me for the sample of IceT’s “Colors”, which was my first favorite hip hop song! *“I am a nightmare walking”* then becomes the refrain that follows the song everywhere it goes, and it goes A LOT of places. The vocals are so earnest and delicate, and mostly left for the song’s quieter moments, but overall this is one of the most adventurous songs I’ve heard in years. It’s damn near impossible to classify Blood Orange, but I’d certainly say he’s amongst the most interesting artists in the world today. This song proves it.
Collide	Joe Goddard & Findia	2026	Willis	Electronic, Indietronica	Joe Goddard consistently pulls a groovy vibe that resonates with me. This new release, although not credited, is a collaboration with TEED, which always intrigues. Findia’s vocal style sounds like London Grammar or Kaleida. He’s worked with or remixed them both. What a player! It’s a real harp!	I listened to this briefly when it came out, but never added it. I must’ve failed to give it enough time, because it’s very suitable for HFD. I’ll always love Goddard (and anything the Hot Chip guys do separately). I can see he’s opening up his horizons a bit, straying into some new sonic territories. The vox are urgent and restrained at the same time. Kept waiting for the beat to kick into another gear, but it didn’t happen until ¾ into the track, but only for a measure or 2. Very spacey choice! This will be fun to follow.
The Glamorous Life	Sheila E.	1984	Gregg	Electro /Funk /Latin Soul	This song has been one of my all time favorite guilty pleasures (because I couldn’t classify it into anything in my collection except top 40) for the cowbell rhythm combined with that catchy syncopated melody with sax. And the music video playing one-handed, kicking the cymbal, she was all that! I never knew it was written by Prince, but it makes sense, and as I’m listening to his recording now – it’s a great recording, However, hers took it to another level. She is selling all of her outfits and drum kits on reverb.com	Not sure when it happened, but I became obsessed w/ this song over the years. It was always good, but listening with new ears you’ll find one of the best rhythm tracks you’ll ever hear. Prince didn’t always save his best songs for himself, he knew when to find the appropriate vehicles for his songs that could only make them better. He does so here, giving Sheila a song that only she could deliver with her percussive, rhythmic sensibilities. The vocals are precise & sung with conviction, but she never flips into “lead singer” mode, resisting the urge for “soul”, and treating the melody as if an ensemble might sing it. The song needed just that, as the instrumentation is very busy and drum-centric. An essential 80’s banger.
Running (feat. Sísý Ey)	Hercules And Love Affair	2017	Willis	Dance / Electronic, House	Names are either 1 of 3 types: Someone’s name (boring), The (somethings), and then all the rest that force you to think. Sisy Ey are three sisters from Iceland who sing House music. Hercules And Love Affair are a Belgium-based DJ/producer group led by American Andy Butler. An algorithm suggestion that caught my attention immediately with a tribal energy right out of the gate and energetic touch of soul R&B. DABEST boxes checked, with such a simple song.	So interesting you chose H&LA this wk, as they dropped a new song that I featured on New Mx Disc this past Thurs. That song, much like this one gives more than just danceability. I appreciate how they write lyrics that tell a story, esp for LGBTQ community. I’ll say, I’m not too familiar with this song, so I’m stoked you introduced it to us here. Love the wet electronic sounds all over it. This is gonna sound amazing in rotation! The chorus is phenomenal. “I’m running, im running.. My feet wont touch the ground”.
Hot Music	Soho (feat. Pal Joey)	1990	Gregg	Breakbeat /Jazz House /Footwork	Haha “Footwork” is so right for this song. Never heard it before, but I can see this track bringing the house down. Without knowing that, it feels very avant garde and jazz-inspired. It could also be a very good intro to any other song since it’s vocally minimal. Seemingly not the same group that made “Hippichick”.	Released in ‘90, this song went on to become a central force in my HS/College years. Any time this song came on at a party or club, the place would explode! A circle broke out, where people would enter and go OFF for about :20 seconds before ceding way to another eager dancer. People would lose their minds, and it only made me love the song more. Unsure if it was regional to NYC/NJ, but I know it was also big in Chicago. An anthem for sure. These days, I know it’s considered an early house classic and has gained extra exposure thx to the internet, but at that time it was like the greatest DJ weapon in the crates (including for myself)! I still blast it every single time it comes along on HFD.
Summertime, Summertime	Nocera	1986	Willis	Freestyle	Thinking back to my teens working the ice cream sundae booth at Great America in the summer of 87. It was a job melting pot for kids’ from all over the area, including the tougher parts of San Jose and Milpitas. Working 8 hour shifts in groups of 4-8 of us in a 15×15 space, you get to know people. This opened up my narrow west-side demographic bubble, hearing about house parties and gang fights, driving to freestyle music.. It was a transformative summer, with the perfect soundtrack. Bass is fairly mid-range vs. low in this track,I prefer that as it is exactly how my car used to sound from the 6×9” Kenwood speakers in a 69 VW Beetle. It was all about the vocals and hi-hats! Notice the “tape stretch” in the second measure as the song starts up. Whether intentional in production or a mistake during digitizing, it is a true indicator (or reminder) of the analog tape era.	This song reminds me so much of my older sister Vicki. She was my gateway into Freestyle music, and I’m grateful that she would introduce me to so many cool club songs that I might’ve otherwise missed or avoided. At first, this wasn’t a fave of mine, cus I couldn’t understand her voice lol. It sounded like a child or something. But eventually I fell for the beat, and then the song itself. Even listening now in good headphones it sounds bombastic. It also sounds like the summer of 1987 for me, just before Middle School started. There was a certain sonic quality to pop music that I still love to this day.
Right On Track	Breakfast Club	1987	Gregg	New Wave /Pop /Dance	I had no idea (or forgot) about Madonna’s roots in this band! Great choice because I always liked this song when I heard it on the radio or saw the music video, and never really thought about why. It makes perfect sense though listening now that it was the electronics, the groove, and also his mildly soulful vocal style fits the dance beat perfectly – this song probably paved the way for later boy bands to sing danceable pop.	We spoke about Madonna recently, and I brought up how she played percussion in this band before being signed to a label, which still shocks me. She’s not on this, their only hit record, but this is another example of that ‘sonic quality’ i referenced with Nocera. It’s clearly electronic based, but extremely musical and played by musicians. All the synth sounds, the funk bass-groove, and percussive elements – it just sounded so damn large on the radio. Which was another reason I was drawn to radio; the processing that made the music sound like it was being played off a mountain top, broadcasted out to the whole world. I also couldn’t determine, as a kid, if this was New Wave, Pop, Dance, or R&B. It was basically all of those things, and I love it.

Follow these links to listen to these songs (without us talking) on the following platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #127 Show Notes

August 9, 2026August 7, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
Spiritual High (State of Independence), Pt. 2 (feat. Chrissie Hynde)	Moodswings	1992	Willis	Downtempo, Electronic, Ambient House	I prefer this cover over the original or Donna Summer’s. I was so struck by this song in the end credits of a movie, but couldn’t remember anything about the actual movie. The credits meandering past while “The state of independence shall be…” alliterates to the rhythm. I could just listen to that over and over again. It takes the song to another level, if only for that moment.	Oh my sweet Chrissie Hynde. That woman’s voice cuts right through my vital organs. She sounds insanely perfect here. This is my first ever listen – I’m almost sick over the fact that it has taken me 30+ years to hear this song. Needed to start it over to appreciate the beginning. It came in hot, and I was unprepared for what was about to happen. Very cinematic, so it makes sense over movie credits. The mid tempo electro groove of that era is unmistakeable and ALWAYS sounds good/never sounds dated.
swim	Night tapes	2026	Gregg	Dreampop /Trip Hop / Breakbeat	This song really makes your head turn. Started like the Sundays goes trip-hop, and then morphed into Cigarettes After Sex, and finished with Shirley Manson from Garbage. All three vibes, it was like a mini-show within a show!	This band continues to charm me with its unique collages of sound. Firstly – they feature the perfect breakbeat/trip hop style drums that almost feel sampled from 90’s hip hop tracks. There is something so rustic and muted about their beats, and i’m infatuated with that aspect of every song. Add in a very distinct, demanding, mystical voice that can shapeshift several times within a single song. This song is like 3 in 1. At 4.5 mins it slows down and morphs into another “body” for a gritty, PJ Harvey meets Hooverphonic ending. This is brilliant work.
Travellin’	The Jeremy Spencer Band	1979	Willis	Rock	My 22 yr old niece, Violet, had this on her party playlist. When her dad Eric and I heard this, we weren’t familiar with it, yet were drawn to the sound that felt classic, yet possibly contemporary retro. Eric compared it to Fleetwood Mac, and it made sense after we Shazam’d it. The slide guitar works so well here, and I really like the backing female vocals (Jeanne Hendricks). We were impressed with her knowledge of this band.	This is so crazy. I’d NEVER heard this song or artist, but I knew he was in Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac (which was a straight blues band until PG left in 71). Then the first verse hits and I’m digging the soft rock, so cal vibes.. And then the chorus hits and I’m like “WHAT??”. The chorus and pretty much all the female parts are sampled/covered in Tourist’s song “Valentine”, which we play on HFD all the time. I had NO CLUE they stole that part from the chorus of this song. WILD lol. It’s a perfect hook, and this is a beautiful, breezy song.
Where I Find My Heaven	Gigolo Aunts	1994	Gregg	Power Pop /Jangle PopPostGrunge	This is great – Another name I recall from college radio in the 90’s, but couldn’t name any song. I hear the Posies and yes Teenage Fanclub, maybe even more popular band sounds like REM or Gin Blossoms. And now understand the Big Star lineage. Though the way they softly harmonize is unique and pleasing. I had an odd and funny moment when I first listened to this song on the playlist this week.	This is truly one of the most unheralded, best kept secrets of the 90’s. At that time, it was easy to be obscure – but there were also more bands having “regional” success. Bands who were massively popular in a certain area (in this case, Boston scene), with a cult-like following. Gigolo Aunts had the fortune of having this song featured on the Dumb & Dumber Sdtrk, so it elevated them slightly for a minute. MTV played the video. But they were indie & ‘authentic’, and I was obsessed. It mirrors Teenage Fanclub’s harmony vocal style, and was sprouted on the tree as Dwight Twilley, Replacements, Big Star, The Posies, etc. This is pure power pop.
Next Life	Mint Julep	2026	Willis	Dream Pop, Indie Electronic	I check in on this husband/wife duo from Portland every now and then, and found this recent release. Keith is a graduate from Berklee College of Music has released over 20 albums since 2004 under the monikers Helios, Goldmund, and Mint Julep. Nothing too groundbreaking, but a clean, cohesive production combining elements of DABE and few indie guitar licks. His degree in percussion seems to exude in their music.	Once again, I was hooked by the :05 sec mark. So happy you found this, cus I wanna add it immediately. I should check in on them more often, clearly. This is HFD to the bone. Frankly, this is what Cigarettes After Sex should be doing, to evolve their sound beyond the predictable. It’s super subtle and shimmery, but the guitars give it a bold brush of paint.
Paint The Silence	South	2001	Gregg	Indie /Post Britpop	I wouldn’t have guessed there were only 3 people in this band with the subtle addition of synths. But it all comes together very cohesively with very polished production. Kinda like a lower-key version of the Verve’s Bittersweet Symphony. I like their groovy bass and drum rhythms. They must have had good energy live.	This band’s first album came out when I was just finding my legs in radio, so I was absorbing an obscene amount of live music in NYC on the record labels’ lists. I got to see South 3x in a short period, so i was ultra familiar with their record. I felt like they were going to be as big as Coldplay or The Killers, but an overall better band. There was just something so palatable about them, while they also explored a more experimental approach to these catchy ass songs. They sampled strings, they programmed beats and played live drums over them, they layered vocals, looped guitars.. All as a 3 piece. It was inspiring for the musician in me. You’ll hear the organized chaos in this, their most “known” song. Epic and well written. Also featured on the tv show The O.C., which exposed them to more people, but the project never took off the way I expected.
Fire Eternal (feat. Kazu Makino)	Lord Huron	2025	Willis	Indie Folk, Indie Rock	Alicia liked a song by this band – and I remembered the name from a song on my future shows list. This song is neither of those choices – because I kept digging to find an even better collab with Kazu from Blonde Redhead. This song has the fewest plays on this album, perhaps because it’s not their usual sound their fans expect, but it’s great for this show! Their folk flavor is cleverly hidden behind a snappy syncopated rhythm and multiple atmospheric effects on the vocals and instruments. Kazu adds so much vibe here.	I’m not a Lord Huron guy, but there are a few songs I really enjoy. I would classify this as one of those. It’s very hypnotic in its spaghetti western-meets-bedroom pop way. Kazu absolutely makes this even better. She’s so distinct in her style and tone, which offsets his more husky tenor. He sounds very similar in this song to Jim James (of My Morning Jacket). It’s almost confusing to my ears! But I really like this a lot. Its a bizarro version of Lee Hazlewood & Nancy Sinatra, and I’m all for it.
Better Things	The Kinks	1981	Gregg	Power Pop /Pre Britpop	In my teens, I bought The Kinks are the Village Green Preservation Society because it was featured on the “Desert Island Disc” list of the Tower Records monthly magazine, and I wanted to be cool. After genuinely listening in earnest, I just couldn’t get into it and I couldn’t understand why. I was a teen into alternative instrumentation and angsty vocals. I just wasn’t ready for the subtle introspective pop of that album. This reminds me of that a little, but with more jangle and energy. It makes me want to go through more of their catalog as it’s so different from their edgier hits (You really got me, Lola, All Day and All of the Night) to see their progression. Maybe then I will finally be cool.	I wanted to share this ray of sunshine so badly, and this spot presented itself beautifully. I can’t get over how fiercely positive this song feels. When people say “don’t you like any happy music?”, this is what I think of. Bittersweet joy, but relentlessly optimistic. Ray Davies wrote this to his ex wife after their separation. There’s something so reassuring and empathetic about it, which makes it great to listen while driving, windows down, shout-singing along to the chorus with a cry in your voice and a smile on your face. “I know tomorrow you’ll find better things!”
Sober Tones (feat. Indigenous People, Naba Napalm & MC Mell’o’)	Marc Cary	2020	Willis	Funk Jazz + Alt Hip-Hop	Jazz is so vast, it can be intimidating to approach without some guardrails or small threads to pull on. I appreciate crossover work like this to foster accessibility, without just leaning on pop as only the crossover genre. A lot of hands in this song, which makes the uninitiated listener wonder which person is contributing what. I like the combo of jazz and hip hop (with drum kit) that might sound good live – however I couldn’t find any videos of them performing this.	This is heavenly magic. Holy crap. First listen, I’m literally standing up and throwing my body around like a laid back exorcism lol. The band is worth my time on its own, riding a groove that I’d be fine with going on for 30 more minutes. The lyrics are intelligent and clever. It’s like the best parts of De La Soul and Gang Starr having a baby with BadBadNotGood and Herbie Hancock. Incredible.
Akousmatikous	Salami Rose Joe Louis (Ft. Soccer96)	2023	Gregg	Exprmntl /Electro Jazz Psych /Art Pop	A banana slug alum – This song really made me sit up and take notice. Surprise changes in rhythm and energy, multiple times, but it stays rooted in jazz-inspired riffs and her melodic overtones. It would feel very hipster cool to see her perform live (Nov at the Independent)	This might be the most interesting artist in the world right now, and she’s virtually unknown somehow. Salami Rose Joe Louis is from the Bay area, but remains a total mystery beyond knowing her real name (lindsay olsen). She features a manic, almost bi polar approach to Jazz & Electronic music. When they say “art pop”, this would be an example. Some might think it’s weird for weird’s sake – but this is incredibly musical and smart and always melodious. This starts off soft and straight, but never feels secure. Eventually it barely resembles the beginning parts of the song. However, even when you think it might spin out of control, she will ground you with her voice and sweet melodies. All the while the tilt a whirl bends and twists below your feet. I don’t even know how one would describe this. I guess.. “Art”.

Follow these links to listen to these songs (without us talking) on the following platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #126 Show Notes

August 2, 2026July 31, 2026 willis No Comments

Do you like reading our notes in this table? Or would you prefer a cleaner list and leave the descriptions up to your own imagination? Let us know in the comments!

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
Colomb	Nicolas Jaar	2011	Willis	Ambient Electronic, Microhouse, Downtempo	I came across a hypnotic, monotone song called “Space is Only Noise if You Can See” from his first album “Space is Only Noise” and was intrigued by the ambient exploration of negative space. This song has vocoded French phrases reminiscent of Daft Punk and a catchy rhythm that is almost danceable. The vibe could be a soundtrack to a moment. The meditative groove is made from claps ,clicks, echoes. A minimalist approach to rhythm demonstrating Less is more.	What a way to set us off on our way! Nick Jaar is an electronic genius, and IMO is often overlooked in the IDM universe. This album is a start to finish classic.
Listening Wind	Talking Heads	1980	Gregg	Ambient /Psych /Dub	Wow, this would have tripped me out if I heard it on a Walkman headset in 1980. Just thinking about all the layering of sounds to make this song on studio equipment of that era is impressive – yet it seamlessly blends together to make a thick instrumental sound. David Byrne’s vocals never really impressed me, but his weird artistry is something un-matched and worth experiencing. “Mojique thinks of days before Americans came” Most of the artists on your list this week are creating mental bookmarks for me to spend more time listening to.	From their genre warping classic “Remain in Light”, this song almost predates what Nicholas Jaar was doing in ‘colomb’. Considering this was recorded in 79, when nothing else sounded like it, you can’t help but admire what this band achieved (while still producing hits). Brian Eno’s hands are all over this, which is why the ambient atmospherics are as prominent as any of the instruments typically used. The genre term “Alternative” didn’t arrive until the 90’s, but to my ears, this was truly alternative to everything else at the time.
Her	The American Dawn	2024	Willis	Dream Pop / Indie Rock	Mysterious, minimal information to find about this artist who has created an interesting ripple in the waves. Only 2 songs released, credited to Isaak Wesley Isbell. Social media pages show some photos of a blonde surfer, random Bruce Lee movie still frames, Camel cigarette ads, and various Americana imagery. Also minimalist in sound, the tiny little keyboard rainfall in this song caught my attention and brought me to somewhere else, like in a music video. Apparently 59M other people on YT feel something also. And there is a fanbase making music videos for this song that range from Lost in Translation to Anime or someone casually walking through a brush field.	Never knew of this til now. It has bedroom pop elements, some soft classic rock, but also has a Cigarettes after Sex quality to it. Very easy listening (in the good way), but there’s also some subtle pscyhedelia in there too, giving it a gothy spaghetti western feel. I really really dig this. I will add it into rotation for sure.
Streets of Your Town	The Go Betweens	1988	Gregg	Jangle Pop /Indie rock	This song is refreshing and upbeat. The guy/girl vocals make this song unique, especially the “Shine” backing vocal. The acoustic guitar solo is a solid example of doing more with less. I recall the name of this band during this era, but that’s it. I bet many of their songs would fit well in a mix tape. I am curious how well the jangle holds up to my ears within a whole album – and intend to find out.	Another of the major “underground” 80’s indie bands, after featuring Straitjacket Fits and realizing there’s a whole subculture’s worth of artists we haven’t spent enough time highlighting on the DD. Again, formed in the late 70’s, you can draw a direct lineage of this sound to bands like The Smiths, The Clientele, Lemonheads, The Church, etc. Though mostly unknown, it’s really incredible to hear how these songs stand up compared to so many 80’s bands of the era. It could’ve come out in any decade, 60’s through the 2010’s. The guy/girl harmony vox is a very modern sound, and this band does it expertly here.
Motionless	BUDAYA	2014	Willis	Dream Pop	A duo from Mexico that I learned about from a small record shop in Boston. It’s an interesting power of connection to music through the simple physical experience of going to the store and talking about a record with someone, compared to just clicking on links. Most of their work is in Spanish, however they have a 4 song EP with English tracks. This song has an innocent charm and upbeat groove that appeals on a basic level. Like a lite version of The XX	Upon the first 3 seconds, I knew I’d love this. The keyboards come at us in 3 different ways, setting up a trippy, 80’s sounding R&B song. So much of that slick 808 style production from that era has come back around to music recently, but considering this was 2014, it feels like they were ahead of the pack. It’s like The XX meets the 80’s.
Care For You	Wolfsheim	2003	Gregg	Darkwave /Electronic /Goth Wave	I still remember when you chose “Once in a Lifetime” way back at show #9, I was struck by the familiar 80’s style vocals, yet still a highly distinctive sound. It’s like he sings with a very controlled, nasal-yet-pleasantly resonant waver. Lots of swagger. Love this song. Dynamic sound of the 2000’s bassline and synth hits, but vocal delivery from the 80’s and a downtempo groove. Headphone experience is a 10/10. Car at night will be next. The production flows well into the next song.	A band that feels as if they existed next to Depeche and the Cure in the 80’s, showing very little signs of modern styles. The production is nuanced and appropriated for headphone listening, but it’s also quite danceable and sounds great on car speakers. I first heard them at Aldo’s Goth/New Wave/Industrial night, and ran up to the DJ to ask who was playing. This song has come up recently, and I immediately earmarked it for the DD. I think you’ll like this. RIYL: Depeche, Cause & Effect, OMD, and Pet Shop Boys.
Paradise (Not For Me)	Madonna and Mirwais	2000	Willis	Electronic, Ambient Pop, Downtempo	I heard the Mirwais release of this song on HFD and was confused at first, assuming it was from Madonna’s album Music, and it took a little bit of research to understand that they both released their own versions of this collab. My favorite Madonna album that I never got tired of repeating in the CD player on long drives. This song oozes, undulates, and grooves in a way that was bold and unique. Still to this day, listening now – I can’t believe it’s 26 years old.	One of my all time fave Madonna songs! My friend Kat heard this on her first day of listening, and went out of her way to mention how excited she was to hear it. This is a lowkey masterpiece. Originally a Mirwais song, that featured a digitized robot vocal, and later released on Madonna’s “Music” album, with her vox overdubbed. This is the best version. The beat always excited me – as it’s very trip hop. That bass drum thump is so thiccccc.
Like Smoke (Ft. Nas)	Amy Winehouse	2011	Gregg	Psych Soul /Retro Soul /Hip Hop	I love the combo of bluesy jazz and hip hop here. Her voice is perfectly framed by the backing band and book-ended by Nas interesting rhymes like “Yo, this recession is a test, it’s affectin’ my complexion, misdirection’ my affection, my concerns of bill collections” Just about all of her career snuck under my radar (which was basically off) and all I know about her is the tragic ending and her fans at a loss. This compels me to go watch the biopic and dive into her entire catalog & various performances.	So much love and respect for Amy. My heart breaks when I think of how troubled she was, and it makes it even sadder that we can plainly hear the heartache all over her catalog. This song was unfinished when she passed away, but they produced it and added Nas’ verses to make it complete. The combo of his voice weaving in and out with hers is just disarming and beautiful. I hate that we lost her so young, because she was a treasure.
Birthday	The Sugarcubes	1987	Willis	Post-Punk, Alternative Rock, Avant Pop	Hip Hop fans have If “In Da Club” by 50 cent as a birthday song, and alternative music fans have this one I didn’t know the B-side of this single had the Icelandic version of this song. I wonder if people have memories of the first time they ever heard Bjork sing the way she does, because it felt like a revelation to me hearing a shrieking wail sound so pleasantly rebellious, confident, and abstract, yet contained.	The first time I ever heard Bjork’s voice was with this song. I have to admit, this was their best song – and I almost wish we got to hear another album with Bjork as the frontperson of a band. She’s a genius as a solo artist, but hearing her fall in line with other artists is truly a joy. This song is nearly perfect. The drums are tribal, the guitars are warped sounding, and Bjork sings with a soulfulness that sounds like she’s JUST discovering her voice’s power. A1 level alternative classic.
Silent Pictures	Mouth Ulcers	2026	Gregg	Goth Rock /Alternative /Post Punk	I couldn’t agree more that the guitars are at the forefront here, striking a fine balance of gritty noise, a spacious environment, tense/manic rhythm, surf-rock guitars, and dark (grey) emotion in the vocals. I wouldn’t have guessed this to be a new release at all based on theme, content or production. Even though the structure is pretty straightforward, it’s taken me several listens to work through all the different aspects – whether it’s the drum work, guitar work, or deciphering the lyrics, or the transitions between effects and segments.	I got super excited last week when I discovered this song. It has felt for a while like things are going to start veering back towards a more guitar-based sound in modern popular music. Rock has been dead for so many years, it’s only a matter of time before the flavor returns, and hopefully in the form of something fresh & new. This song calls to mind 80’s goth-centric rock (ala The Cure, Sisters of Mercy, Joy Division, Ministry, Echo & The Bunnymen, etc). The guitars are up and the vibes are high with this one. It lacks a true “hook”, but the song stands on its own regardless. I’ve been desperately seeking more music that sounds like this, and I’m now hoping the flood gates will open.

Follow these links to listen to these songs (without us talking) on the following platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #125 Show Notes

July 26, 2026July 26, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
pretty	Inner Wave	2026	Willis	Indie Rock, Psychedelic Pop	This single released after their latest album SEE YOU WHEN I GET BACK and will be on the forthcoming deluxe edition Although they’re not a surf band per se, I think of the beach and summer vibes when I hear a lot of their music. Maybe only because it was the surf shop in Hawaii where I first heard them. New wave keyboards.	I really liked this from the first 15 seconds. The vocals are very lax, which can sometimes doom a song, but in this case the voice thrives. Even the harmony vocal uses minimal effort, but again, it works beautifully. The music is like slow motion sunshine, glowing and sparkling over a summer day. The wash of psychedelia is just the right touch.
Drugs (Jamuel Saxon Remix)	Black Heart Procession	2010	Gregg	Indie /LoFi	Totally unfamiliar with this band when you mentioned them last week. So I listened to some of their music – definitely not as HFD as this song. The remix is atmospheric and spacious, trippy beat.	Playing in SF next month. A true cult status indie band. Part of a great lineage that starts with Three Mile Pilot, the ultimate cult band that also spawned Pinback. Pall Jenkins has a very “heart on his sleeve” vocal approach with shaky notes and all, which was signature to the band’s appeal. Sad and despondent at times, but remaining a hopeless romantic at the core. This remix is quite a departure from the original (which is a haunting piano ballad), but it fits the HFD aesthetic nicely (and better). I recommend going deeper into their catalog for their more signature woozy piano & guitar sound.
Fabulous Things	Straitjacket Fits	1990	Willis	Indie Rock, Dunedin Sound	I remember the name from college radio but didn’t explore at the time. Interesting to learn about this scene from NZ with jangly guitars, melodic pop and a little bit of angst. Listening to this song is like tasting a delicate Pinot Noir. There’s a steady level of reverb or sustain in the instrumentation that maintains a consistent tension (let’s call that the acidity) that balances with his delicate, vulnerable voice (the earthy tannins and subtle aromas)	I’ve never heard anything from this band, but I know the name. I might’ve misjudged the book by it’s cover, in this case lol. I didn’t expect such a delicate, jangly echo chamber! Funny, I can almost name a few handfuls of bands that had a similar sound in that same era – and all were essential (The Smiths, Throwing Muses, Go Betweens, Felt, Everything But The Girl, etc). Surprised they have remained so obscure, even in the age of YouTube and Spotify. This is wonderful.
A Younger Version of Myself	Telefon Tel Aviv	2019	Gregg	Electronic /Experimental	This starts as such a trance that builds in layers. Better appreciated in headphones for the subtle development and the subtle vocals that are set far below the music level, yet spatially off to the sides. I like the singing / delicate wailing are haunting. more than just simple vocals in a bedroom studio. You mentioned that the lyrics alone stand out. Joshua Eustis	The piano melody of this song reminds me so much of Sade “Pearls”, but the song itself is so psychedelic and trippy, it almost distracts from how beautiful the melody truly is. When I think of experimental music, the best stuff are always those that remain tuneful and at least vaguely pop adjacent, which this is. The piano is a touchstone here, keeping us all grounded in this chaotic dreamscape – until it’s gone. Which is when we start drifting off into far away space. I love how this song sounds in rotation, and after hearing it recently, I wanted to share it with more intention.
Visions of You	Jah Wobble’s Invaders Of The Heart	1991	Willis	Dub, Post-Punk, World	Seeing his biography at the Recycle Bookstore, Jah Wobble, it’s a name I heard somewhere before, but didn’t know he was the bassist from Public Image, Ltd. When I saw who the guest vocalist on this song was, it was a required listen to assess for a Deep Dive, and I was pleasantly surprised. World music influences, the bass stands out. I love finding these nuggets.	It’s crazy how I haven’t heard this song since the 90’s at least! I remember how difficult it was to track this song down, at that time. I heard it on a late night specialty radio show, and subsequently searched everywhere to find the cd (to no avail). Eventually I gave up (or forgot about it), and it slipped into obscurity. So glad you presented this, because it’s even BETTER today. This is right in my wheelhouse, especially lately. I have so many ideas of where to go after this one, but many of them might be too similar. Sinead’s “cry/sing” style.
Way On Down	Fun Boy Three	1982	Gregg	New Wave /Dub /African	I have never heard any of this! Very original, fun, and weird. The horns, backing vocals, and… marimba(?) seem like a combo that probably doesn’t exist anywhere. I love the level of integration both musically and culturally.	I was never a Specials fanatic, but I AM a Terry Hall fanatic, and appreciate everything he did. “Ghost Town” was such a great Specials’ song, and I feel like when he left, he built a whole band around that song’s vibe. I was late to the FB3 party, but over the past 5-10 years, they are amongst my most listened to 80’s bands. So sophisticated and restrained, with an insane sense of rhythm and melody. The tribal aspects merge brilliantly with the Dub/Reggae sounds, creating a whole new subcategory of post punk music.
Wild Side	Cross My Heart Hope To Die	2013	Willis	Trip-Hop	After learning that DJ Muggs from Cypress Hill had a trip-hop side project, I had to investigate. This song is dramatic, cinematic, and bold – from the beat to the horns and the convincing soul of vocalist Brevi. She changes styles several times and it really keeps the energy going.	Woah this is not what I expected after reading your description of who this is. I didn’t even know it existed before today. The beat is reminiscent of Portishead obv, and the vocals swing between Amy Winehouse and Nina Simone. It’s def not breaking any new ground, but it’s quite appealing and quenches a thirst for this sound. Her voice is both my favorite and least favorite parts of this song lol. The beat is chunky and mixed perfectly for a kicker-box in a lowrider.
Keep Ya Head Up	2Pac	1993	Gregg	Hip Hop /RnB	This is excellent, uplifting and highly accessible with the familiar samples expertly mixed in. I wish I had followed the 2Pac and hiphop movement during this era. I was deep into raving and indie/punk rock during this time and still trying to “find myself” starting a career and being an independent adult. The hard-edge messages of hip hop during this time didn’t resonate with my own sense of reality.	I feel it’s important to highlight some of the classics from 90’s hip hop, especially those with a message like this one. Similar to “They Reminisce Over You”, this song hits an emotional chord in the most sentimental way, without sacrificing credibility. 2Pac was one of a kind, being as ‘hard’ and authentic as anyone, but also being a gifted lyricist and writer and thought leader. Hearing this song chokes me up, him showing such adoration for his mother. *“Cant complain u were dealt this helluva hand w/o a man, feelin helpless. Because there’s too many things for you to deal with – dyin’ inside, but outside yr looking fearless”.*
Tocando	Helado Tropical	2024	Willis	Latin, Indie, Tropical	Collab between Helado Negro and Reyna Tropical captures another summer vibe for me in some faraway place with palm trees, fruity cocktail, nylon string guitar and a… synthesizer. The pitch bends add a softness and signature. Yes all in Spanish, but we could all stand to learn more Spanish. Being spoken in 20+ countries. We watched the WC finals on Telemundo because it was free.	I’m a massive fan of Helado Negro, which means I should know about these projects! But i did not. I would’ve guessed the female was Kali Uchis, which is the ultimate compliment, but she blends perfectly with his understated crooner voice. He emotes so effortlessly, which makes it so easy to buy into whatever he’s saying (even when I don’t understand it). This is a dreamy masterpiece. Thanks for the discovery!
Boy Strange	Pet Shop Boys	1999	Gregg	Psychedelic /Pop /Avant Garde	Unexpectedly psychedelic from PSB. THe acoustic portions remind me of the vibe of Bowie’s Spaceoddity along with other bands you mentioned. I can imagine the music video for this. Only focused on the one astronaut.	Because there are so many albums in PSB’s catalog, sometimes lesser known album cuts can get buried and lost. “Nightlife” was always a lowkey favorite album of mine, and this song specifically was always on my “Nightdriving” mixtapes/cd’s back in the day. But until it came up last week on a playlist, I hadn’t listened in WAY TOO long. It starts off feeling as if its gonna be a cinematic track, and then shifts to a soft acoustic vibe with underlying tension.. But that only tricks you into a relaxed state before it eventually explodes into a cacophony of swirling sounds and noise, leading to the most grandiose crescendo, that eventually dissipates back to the soft acoustic + piano warmth to close it down. This is the closest the band ever got to The Flaming Lips or Mercury Rev. I also hear a little 70’s Elton John. Epic and beautiful.

Follow these links to listen to these songs (without us talking) on the following platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #124 Show Notes

July 19, 2026July 18, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
Venom	Glass Spells	2024	Willis	Synthpop, Darkwave	Came across on Instagram, intrigued by their big retro synth sound. Anthony Ramirez and Tania Costello had a short time together from 2019-2026, but took a break at the beginning of this year. maybe they just couldn’t get a big enough fan base to continue (26k monthly on Spotify Driving synth captures The Human League, or Visage,”Fade To Grey”.	I’ve flirted with this artist a few times, but never really took the dive. HFD played a song called “night hour” a while back, but then somehow lost track. Upon first listen, I’m immediately reminded of Ladytron & Goldfrapp, but there’s also a touch of Kylie Minogue’s pop sensibility. It’s right in the HFD pocket, and checks most DABEST boxes.
Planet Earth	Duran Duran	1981	Gregg	New Wave /Post Punk	I never really noticed the subtle intro that becomes an underlying synth line throughout the entire song. I thought I was familiar with this song and vibe – but now I notice there is so much punch and rock loudness in the bass, drums and guitar. Like rock, but actually not rock. My intro to Duran was that my sister became a “Duranie” seemingly overnight, and it felt like “baby brother copying” for me to enjoy her music that basically became her identity. So as a teen I only observed their success peripherally, as a novelty (a juggernaut that consumed girls worldwide).	As i look back at my youth, for some reason this song (the video) was the first time I realized I might be drawn towards the “left of center”. MTV opened so many gateways in 1981. Duran hadn’t blown up yet, but they were on our radar. The band was almost glammy looking but also very confusing to my young eyes; presenting as masculine men but also being attractive in a feminine way. But this song was like crack for me. I wanted to hear it, and i also wanted to watch them. It was bizarre. But from that point on, I always had an affinity for Duran that still exists today.
notice	YellowStraps	2023	Willis	Neo-Soul, Indie R&B	Two brothers from Belgium. Yvan and Alban embrace the autotune and sometimes sing in French. A bit of the hazy vocals and tight synth production kinda like Mindchatter. Funny that this song had the opposite affect on me than you – where I really liked the combination of familiarity (vocal style) and subtlety (the hammond organ) and predictable structure at first, but thru subsequent listens, it felt more like everyday pop and repetition without really trying too hard.	This took a couple listens before i could get comfortable with it. It does sound like Mindchatter in the vocal delivery, but also resembles a lot of the mainstream sound. I can even notice a touch of Daft Punk’s more funky moments (ie: “Doin it Right”). The vocal effect in this has grown tiresome and formulaic to my ears, but once I got past that, I was able to enjoy it.
Say that	Toro y Moi	2013	Gregg	Neo Soul /Garage /Funk	This must be a classic, because I feel like I’ve heard that subtle refrain before “I’m allright… we’re allright…” Love the deep bass dance breaks – thick groove accomplished with minimal layers, strategically placed. Curious what his sound would be like today. July 29 @ Bottom of The Hill	A masterpiece of a soulful dance song. It has lots of jazzy & psychedelic elements, but it’s also a laid back house kinda vibe. I wish Toro would’ve spent more time in this phase of his sound evolution. I’m not sure he was ever more experimental or expansive than this song. His knack for melody is obvious here, but it’s his breathy approach that keeps him from oversinging and thus making it feel more loungey and dreamy. This song made me a fan of his, and I still drop everything to listen closely each time I hear it.
Nothingness	Living Colour	1993	Willis	Symphonic rock, Funk Metal, Alternative Metal	Still touring small venues across the country. When these guys hit the scene, I was listening to metal, and loved that there was a blend of funk/soul and hard rock/metal instrumental power. Corey Glover’s articulate soulful vocals and wild showmanship plus Vernon Reid shredding guitar was a paradigm shift. However today, aside from the idea of the fusion, it’s just too harsh for me to actually enjoy. This song from their 3rd album though, is one of the few that stands up today, and I wish they had more of this in their catalog. What do we think about the crickets?	Firstly, I never listened to anything from them after the debut album (which I loved and owned on CD when it came out). I was also into Metal & Hard Rock when they arrived, so it was a no brainer with their funk/punk/hip hop influences splattered into their brand of hard rock. Still, when I saw their name, I was almost shocked and maybe a bit confused. But after 1 min, I completely understood the inclusion. This could be a Seal song, with a mid-uptempo groove and a grainy soulful vocal. But it’s the groove for me. I’m pleasantly surprised at how much I like this song, and feel silly for missing their releases after “Cult of Personality”.
No Hopper	Al Chem	2017	Gregg	Psych /Dub /Electronic	The rhythm is uniquely created from a handful of samples that really would never seem to go together. The most subtle one being the millisecond clip of the start of a recording or switch turning on. This has an interesting vibe of anticipation – I keep waiting for something to happen, and only once I realized that nothing was going to happen, I could enjoy it for the dub-state it was meant to stay in and either enjoy the individual components that make it up, or the smooth amalgamation of it all together.	This song is so damn cool. I have a great driving story about it. I’ll share when we record, but it was at that moment I added it to my master deep dive list. In my ongoing/endless quest to discover gems that time left behind without any notice – I found this block of gold. When you listen in good headphones, your brain is going to explode. It’s almost as if a marble is bouncing around the canals of your brain, ears and nasal passages, but in a certain rhythm that almost bounces around the song’s groove to create another sound of its own.
Hip Hop Creature	Mellow Man Ace	1989	Willis	Hip Hop, Latin Rap	Brother of Sen Dog of Cypress Hill, Cuban-American Rapper Ulpiano Sergio Reyes went solo with this album Escape from Havana, and is known for bilingual delivery and novelty rhymes, like the hit “Mentirosa”. Produced by The Dust Brothers and DJ Muggs of Cypress Hill Funny you mentioned LL, on this same album is a song called “B-Boy in Love” that sounds a lot like LL’s “I Need Love”.	Couldn’t believe this song samples Tom Sawyer by Rush, and I never knew about it until today. Having only heard Mentirosa and Welcome To My Groove, I definitely didn’t expect this more aggressive approach. Reminds me a bit of LL Cool J, even Chuck D and Ice Cube at times. Knowing that Muggs/Sen Dog are producing it makes sense, as it’s edgy in the same way Cypress Hill was. I dig this.
Down With The King	Run DMC, Pete Rock & CL Smooth	1993	Gregg	Hip Hop	I didn’t know about this collab – first time hearing it! On the surface I actually have to read along with these lyrics to follow.	In my top tier of Hip Hop songs. I could make a documentary about this single song, simply because of when it came out and what was happening in my life. The lyrics are as intelligent and prophetic as Hip Hop gets. If you weren’t alive in the 80’s you could never understand the magnitude of RDMC and their cultural impact. They were style, they were street, they were respected, they were smart, they were thought leaders, and they made music in a way nobody had ever heard before. They were “the kings”. I still reference this song regularly, whether it’s a lyric or a story. 90’s RDMC were even MORE badass.. But now they had something deeper to say. CL Smooth’s verse is the stuff of legends. “Look ma, no shoe laces”.
Looking Glass Girl	The Glove	1983	Willis	Post-Punk, Neo-Psychedelia	I didn’t know about this side project of Robert Smith and Steven Sverin of Siouxsie and the Banshees. (If you were in that band, would you call yourself a Banshee?) Guest vocalist Jeanette Landray adds just the right euro-angst. I might even think it was Siouxsie.	Great choice! Another band I didn’t know until I met (mynus)Kris. When he asked if I knew about The Glove, I was almost embarrassed to say “No”. I was avoidant and danced around the subject until he finally just explained who they were. Then realizing the moment, he made a big scene – “I CANT BELIEVE you don’t know about this! Here are 2 cd’s.. We need to go listen NOW”. It might’ve felt slightly humiliating in the moment, but time made me realize he was just so excited to share something that cool with me. Just as we do with each other on the Deep Dive. Needless to say, I became very familiar with this whole album in short order lol. You chose my favorite track by them. I’ll admit, I’ve not listened much at all over the past 20 years or more.
Profane Break	Chanel Beads	2026	Gregg	Psych Pop /Indie	The first thing I noticed is the instruments, seem like they are right in my head, literally this band is standing tall, guitars in hand, between my ears and behind my eyeballs. There’s a shoegaze quality to the way they’re playing, yet without the reverb and chorus effects on. The big church bells are a nice surprise. I would hit repeat on this also because the song stops so abruptly, but I agree there’s something about it that makes you want it to continue.	I wasn’t sure what to think about this band. Their first album just slipped by me, and what I’d heard wasn’t stirring anything in me. I noticed a lot of hype bubbling under, so I wanted to see if I was missing something. This song came out last week – and I was in the perfect frame of mind to listen intently. It finally caught me. It was like two fragments put together, without any real chorus or ‘payoff’, but that’s also what makes it so psychedelic and dreamy and good. The guitar + groove that starts the song and then returns at 1:30 serves as the songs hook – but the androgynous vocals are super raw and catchy. Somehow in such a short simple song, there’s such a pretty melody here and it’s addictive. Each time I play, I hit “repeat”.

Follow these links to listen to these songs (without us talking) on the following platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #123 Show Notes

July 12, 2026July 12, 2026 willis No Comments

This is our summer vinyl show, spinning some fun selections both old and new.

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)
Alfie	Deary	2026	Willis	Shoegaze, Dream Pop
Sure Not Over You	Dinosaur Jr	1997	Gregg	Indie Rock /Post Punk
Fly LIke An Eagle w/Space intro	Steve Miller Band	1976	Willis	Psych Rock, Space Cowboy
Pozole	Thundercat	2026	Gregg	Soul /Jazz Pop /Yacht Rock
Eleusinian	Faded Paper Figures	2020	Willis	Synth Pop
Time (Clock of Heart)	Culture Club	1982	Gregg	New Wave /Pop
All The Time	Slope114	2026	Willis	House / Electronic Dance
Out Of Control	Chemical Brothers (ft. Bernard Sumner)	1999	Gregg	Electronic /Moroder
Sweetest Truth (Show No Fear)	Stereo MC’s feat. Cath Coffey	1995	Willis	Electronic Dance, Hip-Hop, Soul
Ways of the Wind	P.M. Dawn	1995	Gregg	Neo Soul /Psychedelia

Notes

Deep Dive #122 Show Notes

June 28, 2026June 28, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
Winning	The Sound	1981	Willis	Post-Punk, New Wave	A band I FORGOT that I had heard before (totally not checking the list). It’s been fun catching up on post-punk. It seems these guys didn’t get enough commercial success to make it to the US, but had a following in the Netherlands and released 5 albums before breaking up in 1988. This song captures the sound of an era with chimey guitars, heavy-fingered bassline, and angst-inducing synth. Vocals and lyrics hit somewhere between 80’s Bono and a precursor to 90’s grunge.	One of the most unheralded bands of the early Post Punk movement. Played “sense of purpose” on show 64, but this has always been my personal favorite. The beat hits so hard, it’s hard to resist blasting it. The keys remind me of Gary Numan. Another example of a song (and band) that was years ahead of its time. Also another song they’d play at Aldo’s nightclub during Goth/Industrial night, and the reaction showed me there was a world of misfits out there just like me lol.
Lucinda	A Certain Ratio	1982	Gregg	Post Punk,Funk	Amazing basswork. Sounds like two bass players, one on “funk slap mode” and the other on “new wave mode” Even in the intro, one of the basses sounds like a Cure song, briefly. (One more straw in the bale that makes me want to get a bass). Love the funk and beautiful harmonics. Vocals are so melancholy and different for a funk song. I wouldn’t have known what to do with this in 1982.	I often confuse them with The Sound, cus they both exist in the same category in my head. The funky bassline and danceable beat make this irresistible. Add in the lazy, near-androgynous vocals, and you have a perfect storm of Dance, Indie, and Funk – which seemingly inspired early-mid 00’s bands like LCD Soundsystem and The Rapture.
Perfume	Paris Angels	1990	Willis	Madchester, Indie Dance, Alternative	An interesting dichotomy of sound. It starts off big, like U2 or the Alarm, but instead of stadium rock anthem, the tempo shifts into 4rd gear into a baggy, somewhat drunk vocals + electronic dance beat. The tempo changes again as the spaceship lifts off.	Don’t think I ever heard this! I know the band, but I’ve never fully investigated their albums. I will now, though. WOW. I couldn’t sit still while listening. The drums almost sound doubled up, or (possibly) purposely out of phase ever so slightly. “Drunk beat” is a precise description! Vocally, I can’t help but think of The Wedding Present. This is definitely the core of the Madchester sound in every way. Amazing find.
Dream About Me	The Depreciation Guild	2010	Gregg	Shoegaze,Dream pop	I really like this blend of synth and shoegaze sound. That lead in was a brief hit of RunDMC that gets run over by early Cocteau Twins – even into the first verse as he sings in falsetto, which quickly reveals a lower range and discernable lyrics. The chord progression is upbeat and grounding, offset by occasional pitch bends and keyboard flourishes and simple, yet effective guitar solo. The synthetic-sounding drums keep this song moving along a flight path, while still giving room for everything else to happen.	Drummer/Vocalist Kurt Feldman, former member of Ice Choir and Pains of Being Pure at Heart started this project in 2006, sounding a lot like later era-shoegaze while incorporating a groovy, almost programmed drum sound, helping the beat stand out a bit more than most of their peers. Listening now, it sounds like a precursor to the more recent “NuGaze” sound. The melody is soft & dreamy, and remains nestled under the washy guitars and persistent drums. I forgot how much I enjoy this song, and I think you’ll like it too.
The Beginning	Landroid	2026	Willis	Indie Pop, Electronic	Sophomore album released June 12 with a new collaborator, Nigel Roman on vocals and guitar. This is the intro song to the album and is epic in a Dark Side of the Moon fashion. Setting the stage for an album that was meant to be enjoyed start to finish. It starts in like a void of space, but then gradually forms into a song, building and stretching the vibe and turning more into rock. Three of them touring and at Hotel Utah June 26.	The slow burn of the intro creeps up like smoke in a dark nightclub. I would LOVE to see this performed live. What a journey this song turned out to be. I appreciate that they let it breathe, waiting nearly 3 mins before finding it’s groove. Then the skittish beat shuffles in and elevates the mood perfectly. Can’t put my finger on who this sounds like, but it also sounds quite singular. This sent me into a trance.
Porcelain	Moby	2000	Gregg	Trip Hop,Ambient Pop	Moby’s muttered lyrics really work in this song, being so neutral between 3 distinct feelings. 1) The trip-hop beat and short-sampled strings feel anticipatory, like something big is about to happen, but never does. 2) The playful piano notes and chords dancing along happily like a butterfly fluttering along a white picket fence lined with flowers on a summer day 3) what I hear is “stay…stay… woman” feels like missing a loved one. All this makes it feel like a music video. This album is a must have “Electronica” that is not just electronic. Has a little bit of everything: downtempo, dance, rock, ambient, instrumental, poetry.	Figured I’d maintain the trance-like state Landroids sent me into. I’d place this song near the top of my favorite songs from 00-10. It’s hazy and dreamy and sad and beautiful all at once. Moby’s voice has never been particularly great, but in this song he uses it effectively. I can never get enough of the “Hey… Hey… Hey.. Woman you are tired” sample that is sampled throughout (not sure what the lyrics are for that part, but that’s what I hear lol). Then the swelling keys fill the song like puffy clouds, while the simple piano accents feel like cool rain during a sunshower on a humid day.
Go!	Public Service Broadcasting	2015	Willis	Electronic, Post-Rock, Indie	With all the hype around SpaceX IPO and renewed public attention to space travel, I think this clever track with retro samples harkens back to an earlier era of mission control and makes a very melodic, catchy danceable, yet ambient song. It captures the excitement and anticipation of launch in a graceful and pleasing way.	This band is so compelling to me. I’d have never thought I could be so into hearing spoken word like this, but the music’s urgency and beauty almost make it feel as if it’s soundtracking the most important moment in the world’s history. This is so smart and quite multi dimensional. I can only imagine how powerful they would sound live. The next space shuttle launch, they should feature this song.
Surprise Me Again	Haircut 100	1982	Gregg	New Wave,Smart Pop	I wonder if the Cranberries stole this guitar intro. That’s funny you use the word “Smart” to describe this pop, which is exactly the word that came to my mind from the first verse. I really like how they sing “you… sudden -ly smile” so genuinely and sincerely. Love how they snuck in the subtle, yet skilled saxophone riffs which don’t feel cheesy. I do not have this album, but now I think is something to keep an eye out for.	Shocked I never chose them before today. I am a massive fan of this band’s only album. It’s a masterpiece that showcases the unique voice of Nick Heyward, while also featuring a unique horn-centric brand of New Wave. This could be classified as “Intelli-wave”. Most known for “Love Plus One”, they are mostly considered a One Hit Wonder (erroneously). And while this album is a start to finish classic, this song always stands out as a missed hit. It’s a sincere love song that never fails to make me smile. Maybe due to the line *“You suddenly smiled, you took me by surprise”*
Rob Roy	BEATPELLA HOUSE	2024	Willis	Beatbox, Hip Hop, Pop	I am always fascinated by human beatbox. Starting from Doug E. Fresh and Bobby McFerrin, to modern names like Dharni, D-Low, Improver, KRNFX. The internet (specifically short form videos) has helped this skill to propagate across the globe and develop exponentially, as artists push each other to innovate and battle. From South Korea (Wing, Hiss, Hellcat, Huckle and vocalist Yella E.), the beatboxing is clean and tight here. Even the horns sound somewhat convincing. Beatboxing is hard to take seriously sometimes, but the soulful lyrics give it some legitimacy that I think is charming.
There’s A Woman	Gino Soccio	1979	Gregg	Electronic,Experimental,Disco	How the hell is this from 1979?? This could be the Beta Band stepped out of a time machine and walked up to a keyboard demo set up with the Arpeggiator at Guitar Center. Someone goes over to the conga drums… a house diva fills in with female vocals.	I often try to go back into the 70’s to see which disco songs best provided the blueprint for House & Techno. Clearly Giorgio Moroder and Kraftwerk are at the forefront, but occasionally I’ll find something that is JUST as innovative and ahead of its time. This song is every bit as influential as any other pre-house song. For sure it has the Moroder “I Feel Love” synth oscillations, but it also feels fresh & new. Similar to I Feel Love, it could be confused as a song from the new millennium. Groundbreaking form for a relatively unknown song. Excited to listen in headphones with you.

Follow these links to listen to these songs (without us talking) on the following platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #121 Show Notes

June 7, 2026June 5, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
Caught In My Shadow	The Wonder Stuff	1991	Willis	Alt. Rock, Power Pop	I first heard them in college radio, associated with bands “from across the pond”,with a slight english folk sound – but that was all I knew. UK act started in 1986 that toured with Ned’s Atomic Dustbin along with Pop Will Eat Itself. Often combining elements of folk, ska, punk, and glam rock. Miles Hunt as the mainstay, the band broke up and then re-formed – still making music (last release 2019) with fairly consistent sound. The chorus is catchy with strong bassline, w/a rapping style interlude. Mandolin adds a folk feel.	Another band I caught up to while in college, and realized they were part of a whole “college rock”, left of center subculture that was built for people like myself. I had a difficult time figuring out if they were novelty, because some songs seemed quite overtly goofy in nature, but then I discovered several gems that have been with me for 30+ years. I remember this song, but only as part of the album track list. It never made it to mix tapes, which made this all the more enjoyable for me. I had “A Wish Away” in the queue, but this serves as a worthy selection for the DD listeners (and us).
We Don’t Speak Anymore	Thredd	2026	Gregg	Indietronica /Experimental Pop	My jaw dropped too on first listen, and still delivers. I hear the rhythmics and duet vocals of The XX, replacing the guitar and bass with way more electronics – Radiohead definitely. They seem new. looking forward to following this UK trio.	When i first heard this, I had to lift my jaw off the floor. It was the first new artist I’ve heard achieve a Radiohead-like effect with sonics, songwriting, and trippyness. In fact, I thought it WAS radiohead for a minute or 2 lol. After one listen, I had to give it the headphone test, and boy did it pass. I wish it was a bigger hit, so I could keep it around longer, but this will still find its way into future playlists, simply because it’s a pure fit.
Edge of the Edge	Panda Bear & Sonic Boom	2022	Willis	Psychedelic Pop, Electronic	The phone tones may be a thing of the past, but put an interesting date on this song. Panda Bear is Noah Lennox from Baltimore and the band Animal Collective – among other notable collabs: “Doin’ it Right “ w/Daft Punk on Random Access Memories Sonic Boom is Peter Kember from Spacemen 3 The nod to retro is so well executed. This could easily be mistaken for a Brian Wilson song. The lines of old and new blurred so much, I wasn’t sure if the do wop was them or samples.	Great damn song. Funny enough, it samples an old Doo Wop song called “Denise” by Randy & the Rainbows (a DooWop Drive essential). Couple years back it was in a TV commercial, and one night my father texted me to alert me that he heard “Denise” being sampled in a new song in a Honda ad – and it brought him such pride for some reason. I even sent him the full song, and his exact words were “this sounds like the Beach Boys” (good call on your part lol). Panda Bear is like Brian wilson on acid, as are most of his projects (including Animal Collective). This is a modern psychedelic masterpiece.
Aht Uh Mi Hed	Shuggie Otis	1974	Gregg	Psych Soul /Space Funk /Experimental	Literally never heard this name before, and kinda blows my mind how this stands up today. Warm vibes, sweet soulful vocals, sophisticated production, as you noted, to discover. Eagle crying. Sounds like he went dark for awhile after initial success, but then re-issue in 2013 revived his career.	So far ahead of his time. An artist worthy of a deep dive from any music-head – as you will discover a bevy of sounds and techniques that were used to some effect in future subculture music like Electronic, Trip Hop, Jungle, Neo Soul, Dub, etc. This beat is super simple, but essentially forms the foundation for dub and reggae that was bubbling under at this time. Artists like Prince, Lenny Kravitz, Thundercat and Flying Lotus have all cited Shuggie as a primary influence, and you’ll hear it all over his songs.
Rain In The Summertime	The Alarm	1987	Willis	Alt Rock, Post Punk	This week, a flash rainstorm hit our neighborhood for about an hour, which was the heaviest rain and hail I’ve experienced in over 50 years living in SJ. Milo and I ran outside and soaked it all up., sliding around on the ice pellets and being just dumped on. It was glorious. Of course the soundtrack for that moment was this song. As I’m typing this, learning that a “new” album released today called “Transformation”, but posthumously a year after the passing of lead singer from Cancer. I will never forget the 5th grade report I did on Wales, the “culture” section talked about Tom Jones but I should have included these guys. Like U2, their songs have a stadium rock quality that you feel like raising your arms and soaking in, just like rain in the summertime.	I always thought this was as good as any 80’s U2 song, but somehow wasn’t quite as mainstream. I’ve always gone back n forth on whether I should play this on HFD, but have resisted – thinking it was too “arena rockish”. But hearing it in the context of the DD, I probably shouldn’t be overthinking it. This is a great song, in the vein of the Simple Minds formula (melodic, rhythmic rock with a big, sing-along chorus). I always loved “Strength” more than this one, but both are classics. On air, I’ll tell you a couple great stories about Mike Peters, and all his charity work (in conjunction with Squeeze and Anchor & Hope). I was lucky enough to meet Mike and his wife after his first battle with cancer, and he was a saint. Sadly he passed away last year.
Somebody to Love	Dwight Twilley	1981	Gregg	Power Pop /Pre Indie	I thought maybe a familiar name, but actually no. All of his works are unfamiliar to me. I like this song’s varied structure, which I think makes it feel alternative or indie Although it is anchored with power-rock-rhythm with power chords is broken up with guitar riffs that decorate in a playful way, and how his vocals understate with pain up until he lightens up and stretches out with “lo-oh, oh, uh-oh, ove” I am curious now what was Uncle Jimmy’s profession, education and background that unlocked and fueled his passion for discovering and sharing music?	Another artist to chalk up as a Big Star disciple, he remained just under the radar for his whole career, but still maintained a long, solid career making music. He was “indie” before we knew what indie was. This song was on the famous Memorex Blue mixtape my Uncle Jimmy gave me in 1981. I remember listening to it repeatedly, amazed by how desperate he sounded. I believed he was truly aching for love. It stuck with me. When my Uncle passed and I inherited his record collection, this album was one of the first I was eager to play. So amazed that I finally owned it! The lyric that hits me hard: *“Think about what won’t forget. Everyone that ever was, trying to find that piece of love”*
Left Unsaid	Amélie Swann	2024	Willis	Trip Hop, Dark Pop	“Gritty but Pretty” is this artist’s tagline. She wants you to imagine combining Portishead with the opera singer from the Fifth Element. Although most will remember the extraction of stones from blue innards, I loved that performance. I totally get that and dig it. Dark bassline groove paired with bluesy female vocals. I only wish the song were longer and took a turn left or right – anywhere, just keep going!	Made me sad to see only 167 plays on a song released a year ago, considering how good this song is! Its confounding how so many crap artists have billions of streams, yet a hi-quality little nugget like this goes unnoticed. Her voice is powerful, almost operatic at times. I do wish it had a noticeable change, like a bridge or chorus that shifts the melody slightly. Still, this is a banger.
Too Little Too Late	Joris Voorn (Ft. Underworld)	2019	Gregg	Electronic /Ambient	I am ALL IN on this one! Robotic and dark, but the groove gives it soul. I wouldn’t have known the vocals coming from Joris or Underworld. A cool blend of vocals and a subtle trance sound and beat. It moves in energy waves that are I love the lines “My Name is Natasha, she says, slow the beat down”. Totally IG’able.	Dutch DJ & Producer – I discovered how legit he was during Covid. His sound design aesthetics were like a drug, but specifically hearing this song was a gamechanger. I love Underworld as u know, so knowing they considered Joris worthy of a collab told me all I needed to know. This would be in my dj set if i were to play an event in 2026, as it hits all the spots. The monotone vocals weave through the trancey fog like a motorcycle with high beams on. Even right now, I was even dancing in my seat.
Witness Mark	Silversun Pickups	2026	Willis	Indie Rock, Dream Pop	Played them over a year ago, they released this new album Tenterhooks in Feb, and now on world tour. I don’t want to let this new release get away! In Sept @Chase center w/Weezer and the Shins I like their blend of groovy downtempo rock, subtle guy/girl vocals and dynamic rhythmic expertise. Spacious, atmospheric, and a total vibe.	I’ve tapped into this new album for HFD, playing a few of the lead singles, even though I’ve shied away from playing their better known, classic material. For about 5-10 years, they were seemingly the lone “Shoegaze” and “Grunge” holdover, even though they came well “after” those movements. They carried that torch, when nobody seemed to care about distorted, washy guitars anymore. And they were HUGE. Hard to believe, with the resurgence of the sound they helped define, they didn’t generate more excitement with this new record. I’m glad you found this deeper cut, cus it fits the station even better than the others I played (and I didn’t bother listening to the full album, so I wouldn’t have found it).
Lifesavers	Kent	1998	Gregg	Indie Rock /Post Modern	A band I’ve never heard of before, but kinda wished I had! I hear more of a sad version of Smashing Pumpkins – same powerful sound pressure level with that bass, but with slightly airy-er, twangier guitars. Maybe it’s a sound of the grunge era? The pressure only releases at the very end when you can take a breath.	Highly acclaimed Swedish group that briefly crossed into the US, due to a similarity to Radiohead (at OK Computer’s peak). I remember finding this at a “Listening Post” in a local record store – and it was this song, the album’s opener, that blew my head to pieces. They had better known songs, but I heard these lyrics to Lifesavers: *“I will save your life when you’re out and down. I will dim all the lights, to comfort your eyes. You would do the same, you’d do it all for me..”* From that point forward, I was hooked. This whole album is a start to finish masterpiece. Sadly most of their other albums were mostly in Swedish, making it harder for me to connect w/ the lyrics. I will put this album up against just about any of the late 90’s.

Song playlists are also available on these platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes

Deep Dive #120 Show Notes

May 31, 2026June 2, 2026 willis No Comments

Song	Artist	Year	Pick	Genre(s)	Willis Notes	Gregg Notes
Bad Dreams	Pete Yorn and Scarlett Johansson	2018	Willis	Indie Folk Pop	A Pete Yorn song came up in my suggested listening, likely due to my recent “Sad but melodic” artist choices. And I hadn’t remembered (and forgot to check) that you’d chosen a song from him before. Looking at my notes, and maybe if I went back to listen to the show, my response was kind of half-hearted for whatever reason. I could have dove deeper into his catalogue but didn’t. It shows how the musical journey really is personal. So this is like a second chance for me to respond more intelligently. In earlier works his voice reminds me of the raspy higher range of J.Mascis of Dino Jr. but this song his baritone is more pronounced like Johnny Cash Didn’t know Scarlett was a singer, but this is their second album together. Inspired by the duet singing of Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot	I chose Pete back on Show 90, and I think I spoke about the “legend” of PY before he was known. It was being treated as if he was the next Springsteen, and the industry was hyping his intimate performances as “must see” before he explodes. I loved him then, and still do. I was always flummoxed by how we were around the same age w/ him living 2 towns over, and yet I knew nothing of him until 2000. His Scarlett duets were better than I’d expected, but mainly cus she ceded lead vox to Pete most of the time. Coincidentally, about 3 weeks ago I added 3 or 4 of their songs to HFD, but not this one. He straddles the line between Melodic singer/songwriters ala Elliott Smith & classic ‘rock’ artists like Springsteen – which really worked at the time.
What’s Going Ahn	Big Star	1974	Gregg	Pre Indie /Power Pop	This is an interesting crack in the dam opening for me after 35 years of hearing about a band that I could never actually listen to. I remember the other DJ’s at KUCI in 1990 referencing bands that covered Big Star and Alex Chilton, but it was all over my head because nobody ever played them on the radio, so to me it was lore that passed word of mouth and I never came across anything written about them. Kinda silly. It’s kind of a treat to hear this new from the perspective of “an influencer” vs. how people would have heard it the first time and either thinking “this is different, weird, scary” vs. “I like this and am inspired” I hear jangle pop, bluesy key and influence and laid back rhythm that takes turns and changes mood.	On the very short list of artists that inspired genres of music to an extent that far superseded their album sales (2nd only to maybe Velvet Underground). W/o them there’s no REM, no Smithereens, Replacements, Pete Yorn, etc. Listening thru their albums, you’ll go on a true journey of indie rock’s timeline. Every song has its own “sound”. Alex Chilton has a folklore that measures up to Lou Reed, but always shied away from spotlights. He was an authentic “weirdo” artist that lived like a studio hermit. Still, he’s a legend, and a HUGE part of my journey. This song is still my fave of theirs, and happened to be the 2nd song I heard from them.
Dirty Little Secret	Neal Francis & Carlile	2026	Willis	Psychedelic Funk / Rock	Also from NJ, now based in Chicago. His low-key vocal style has an understated swagger. Accentuated with a drunken slowed down dance rhythm like “Sympathy for the Devil “ by the Stones Carlile is a relatively unknown synth pop artist adding vocal depth here. On US tour, @ Guild Theatre in Menlo Park June 20. And of all places a cruise ship	I get so confused sometimes, cus there are a few Neil Francis’ out there, and each spells their name slightly different, so I’m never sure which I’m about to hear lol. Ive never heard this one – and it’s new, so I’m surprised I haven’t stumbled on it. I really like the simple melody – it reminds me of a Sly Stone song. The groove is strong, and the harmonized voices adds a trippyness. Almost feels like a jam that turned into a song. Could be from 1976, sonically.
These Days	Neil Frances	2018	Gregg	Indie Dance /Retro Funk /Soul	I really like the finale. Perfect ending to this groove that kinda builds. I can totally get in to this. Fairly recently I heard a song we played on show 91, “Dissolve” by Absofacto (released same year too), on HFD (or so I thought) and felt the exact same way as listening to this song. If I had to vote on who the real Neal Frances is, I’d say this one. Jordan Feller and Marc Gilfry. On world tour	Why not confuse everyone at the same time lol. Here’s one of the “other” Neil Frances’, but this one had to be listening to Marvin Gaye and Prince growing up. Purely in a warm falsetto and head voice, but it never wears thin. The chorus is so catchy, I usually wind up singing it for 3 days after every listen. I love how this song could be a summer sing-along beach song just as easily as it could be a ‘drive to clear your head’ song with an extra helping of melancholy on top of the sunshine. Dope little distorted guitar solo at the end is very unexpected.
A BOY LIKE YOU	TOMORA	2026	Willis	Electronic / Experimental	This song stands out from the collab album of Tom Rowlands of Chemical Bros and Aurora. And whose voice is that? Vocal F/X is not the familiar Aurora quirk but something out of a Dracula movie. Intense intro gives way to oozing, swirling, tripped out tension. Headphone song.	Whoa! This is new to me. All I had to see was Tom Rowland, and my interest was piqued. The beat made me audibly say “YES!” after it hit. This could sound like the closing credits of a Horror film. It’s eerie af, but also a little sexy. I’m here for that combo every day of the week. Feel like this could’ve been from 2002 or something. The beat is heavy, and the overdriven bass drives it like a war tank. It all feels so unstable. This is so cinematic, it should def be in a movie.
Christian Says	Tones on Tail	1984	Gregg	Dark Wave /Goth /Electro	We played the brighter, more sedate, vocally hushed, “Lions” on show 36, but this is a different sound that is much darker At first all I hear is the guitar hook from Ministry “Stigmata” which now I’m thinking they borrowed from these guys. The eBow I thought was like a theramin but more complex. I’d always felt underinformed about goth in general. I might have said before, this inability to project my thoughts or feelings into dark (or angry) music, so for me any appreciation is all about the sounds/effects, instrumentation, rhythm, etc but a lot of the mood or lyrics don’t cut deep into me. However, the execution of expression of mood I can totally appreciate.	My favorite song by ToT that happened to also be my introduction to the band. Kris (mynus) shared this cd w/ me, and I had no clue this “bridge” band even EXISTED. I liked Bauhaus and loved Love & Rockets, but this one was different. I almost wish there was more music, cus they might’ve been my fave of the 3. One of the best uses of an “eBow”, which became one of my secret weapons as a guitarist. In fact, this song inspired my playing a lot: simple and atmospheric soundscapes instead of ‘strumming’ or picking. *“Christian says, you can’t be happy being this way. Christian says he’ll never let you go. Christian says he can’t let you run free, cus Christian says… he needs you so”.* That lyric nearly had me in tears on my first listen.
Mushaboom (K-Os Mix)	Feist	2006	Willis	Indie Folk Pop + Alt Hip Hop = ?	Feist previously featured on show 23, this Canadian vocalist makes endearing stripped down melodies that beg to be remixed. K-Os also Canadian alt-hip hop previously featured on show 80. This comes from a whole album of various-genre re-takes of her music called Open Season. Like Tom’s Diner /DNA in that way and I love the resulting sum of the parts. Not quite trip-hop, but to be enjoyed in a loungy setting.	I like some of Feists music, but tend to get bored after a few songs. If I knew an album existed w/ remixes that sound like THIS, I would’ve been all over it! K-oS is one of maybe 5 rappers from the 21st century that I consider worthy of being in the company of the legends. His voice is distinct and his lyrics are thoughtful and smart. Feist sounds reborn here. I wish she considered an album of songs in this style, cus it’d be mind blowing. The beat is so chunky!
Fallen Again	Herbert, Momoko Gill	2025	Gregg	Minimal /House /Jazz	Perfect follow up to Feist : vocally pure with outstanding production to elevate it and create a vibe. In this case, a song for a tropical summer day… in a beach house in Brazil. Seamless production that I don’t even feel that it’s electronic. cyclical, rhythmic, airy, melodic, spacious yet intimate. It’s more of a mood than a message, has more presence than just being “ambient”. Even shifts at least twice with subtle drop or refrain. I’m glad there are artists that we like so much that it is hard to single out a song to share. It makes it a future promise to explore further.	We both know my adoration for Matthew Herbert, but it’s so hard to single out songs. I was driving one Saturday evening as the sun was setting – and this song came on. I got so lost in the music’s haze that I wound up miles off my course. I was lulled into a trance by the simple, minimal beat… until about 2:40 when it levels up slightly with some more kick. From there I was hooked in every sense. This is the type of record I always wished I could make, but then I realize Herbert has mastered it & it’s not even worth trying to emulate. This is earnest, heady Electronic music.. Meant more for a dark living room than a club.
no more regrets	almost monday	2026	Willis	Indie pop, Funk	Surfers from San Diego (vocalist Dawson Daugherty was on the Voice in 2015) My sister in law Chris in Napa did her research for bands to watch at Bottle Rock and thought this band would suit my taste. I think though, she means their sound has some HFD vibe, which I agree with. Tho I don’t know yet if I would listen more as the sound at first impression feels too derivative. For example, the song “can’t slow down” reminds me of Empire Of The Sun. The chorus of this song is reminiscent of earlier Tame Impala. The jury is still out for me.	Chris got it right, it seems. I uploaded this into HFD 2 weeks ago and played it 1 time on the New Mx Disc, but for some reason I didn’t upgrade it to a category. After hearing it now, IDK why. This works perfectly and will def go into rotation. This does sound like a poppier Tame Impala, as well as Foster the People (which is a good thing, considering I enjoy both bands). Super catchy and also giving beach vibes. I’ll need to dig deeper and see my true feelings, but so far so good.
Stuck	Ned’s Atomic Dustbin	1995	Gregg	Alternative /Post Punk	You chose this on show 54 – and I totally remember it was another one of those “they was on my list too!”. I liked it then, and I like it even more now after more than a year of other music that we have shared. The context of our choices has evolved, but the taste remains the same. Such that I might have chosen it again as well! This is another compelling data point which proves this show represents a crossroads for both of us, despite being born on opposite sides of the country, raised among different cultures, and musical journeys of substantially different magnitude. It is the most fitting end to the show!	These guys had some airplay in the 90’s, esp in NJ. They were signed to a tiny label in Pt Pleasant, & the owner was buddies with Matt Pinfield, so this band got onto MTV (120 min, specifically) and some radio stations in NY/NJ/PA, which eventually led to some national attention. I still remember when my best friend TG called me to ask if I’d heard “Stuck” on 120 Mins the night before (i hadn’t yet). Then when i DID hear it I wasn’t sure who it was, and I swore it was Tears for Fears lol. All i needed was the opening lyric and i was hooked: *“Have a good time without me. I’m the center of your very being.”*

Song playlists are also available on these platforms:

Spotify

Amazon Music

Youtube Music

Notes