Vinyl Rhetoric: Recent Episodes
Vinyl Rhetoric
This is the second solo album from Phil Collins. Not as dark as his first one, Face Value, this one offers a couple of hits on side 1. Kingcow likes his sound both solo, and with his band Genesis.
Heather plays side 2 of this band's fourth album. Kingcow liked this side better than the first....but, he doesn't have good taste. Enjoy this, Rhetoricians.
Kingcow played this, the third album, by The Police. Zenyatta Mondatta is a really catchy album. The tracks are all upbeat and there is a funky baseline playing through every song. Kingcow enjoyed this one when it came out in 1980. Heather seemed to enjoy her listening experience.
The Crafty DM pulled a first and didn't know it...Kingcow had played this for The Blob a couple of years earlier. You can listen and hear another person's take on this nice piece of vinyl. Maybe, someday we'll play the second side.
Kingcow decided to play this 1979 masterpiece for The Crafty DM. Michael's fifth album is easily his best up to this time. What he learned on this he would use later on "Thriller". If you haven't heard this you're in for a treat. Happy Easter! Praise Jesus!
Heather brought this, the fourth album, from electro swing group Caravan Palace. Kingcow had a bit of a hard time wrapping his head around this one. Maybe you'll hear more than he did.
This debut album featured the first rap song to crack the top 40. In 1979, "Rapper's Delight" was that song and in the beginning of '80 peaked at 36. Enjoy this one, Rhetoricians!
Heather plays the second side of this album. Overall, Rio is surprisingly good. Kingcow learned to like this sound and was unsure why it didn't appeal to him early on.
Kingcow brought this classic album. Surprisingly, Heather wasn't really familiar with it. This piece of vinyl is awesome! While early on, Kingcow was not a fan of Pink Floyd, he grew to appreciate and enjoy them. Rhetoricians rejoice as Pink Floyd is played on Vinyl Rhetoric for the first time since Episode 9.
Heather brought the sophomore release from Duran Duran. Kingcow remembers when this came out. Heather said it was almost an island album for her. Let us know the five albums you would like to be stuck on a deserted island with. Cheers!
This is the 1986 debut album from Pet Shop Boys. Kingcow remembers when it came out and did enjoy it. Heather hadn't heard any of the songs, but surprisingly, did guess their name. Enjoy this one, Rhetoricians!
Way back in September, 2019, Heather requested that this album be played. Now she is a host on the show and her OCD prevented her from playing something new. This band has a sound that appeals to Kingcow. Hopefully, you enjoy as well.
Kingcow brought this awesome album for Heather to listen to. This album was released in 1976 and still sounds crisp today. This is representative of ELO's distinctive sound and is a big reason why Kingcow enjoys them so much.
This is the third album from The Go-Go's. While not well received, Kingcow really enjoyed this one. Their sound is distinct and iconic. One of the '80's most successful acts. This is a good disc!
This 1984 EP is a gem. Robert Plant put together a group to play '50's standards. The musicians on this project include Led Zeppelin mate Jimmy Page, ex-Yardbird, Jeff Beck and Late Night with David Letterman bandleader, Paul Shaffer. Enjoy, Rhetoricians!
Heather plays the second side of The Goon Show, Goon Again. This classic BBC radio show this time takes on the Scots. Be warned and enjoy!
Once again The Crafty DM surprises Kingcow with his musical choice. Today's episode is the debut album of Danish pop group, The Asteroids Galaxy Tour. You're in for an interesting ride on this one. With elements of pop, techno and acid jazz (whatever that is) it is an eclectic sound. Enjoy, Rhetoricians!
WE'RE BACK! Finally!! Heather brought this album. Her dad would listen to it with her and recite lines and laugh all the time. It's a recording of a BBC radio show. It stars Spike Milligan and Peter Sellers. Be warned it has some racial humor from almost 70 years ago.
Sadly, another legend passed away. Michael Aday, better known as "Meat Loaf" died on January 20, 2022. Kingcow and Heather discuss his life. Kingcow remembered that he had seen Meat Loaf in 1994. This is a great album and well worth picking up. It came out in 1993. R.I.P. Meat Loaf R.I.P.
Kingcow played side 1 of this 1979 release for Heather. Instead of trying to separate all the songs he just played the whole side at once. This is Queen's first live album and their first to be mixed at their own studios. Enjoy this one!
The Crafty DM pulled out this 1983 release. This is the third ZZ Top album played by Vinyl Rhetoric. This is their eighth studio album and also their biggest seller. MTV played the videos from this album non-stop. Happy New Year, Rhetoricians!
Kingcow pulled out this 1968 classic. Number 459 on Rolling Stone's top 500 albums of all time, this compilation by The Drifters has many timeless classics. The Crafty DM enjoyed the doo-wop sound as much as Kingcow. Listen to this one and reminiscence about a carefree time.
Kingcow and Heather listen to the soundtrack from Christmas Vacation. This album includes several talking segments from the movie. If you haven't seen the movie yet perhaps this episode will encourage you to do so. Merry Christmas to all the Rhetoricians!
This 1971 album somehow found itself in Kingcow's collection. Kingcow and Heather discuss cider, tea and Christmas during this show. We hope you enjoy it and have a Merry Christmas!
Heather finishes up this fine soundtrack. Four sides and four shows, Kingcow found this album entertaining. Enjoy this one!
The Panda brought this, the third album, from rocker Jon Bon Jovi. This album, which came out in 1986, rocks hard. There are several mega-hits and the whole album is solid. Enjoy this one, Rhetoricians!
Heather plays the third side from this soundtrack. It has a song that's a cover and a medley which features parts of several songs. Heather's enthusiasm for this album is contagious. Hopefully the Rhetoricians enjoy this ride!
Kingcow introduces Heather to this 41 year old piece of vinyl. Kingcow reminisced about hearing this while playing soccer in high school. It still sounds good after all these years.
Heather, true to form, keeps playing her whole album. Except for her "turkey" release she hasn't missed a beat. This is side 2 from the movie soundtrack for "Moulin Rouge". Enjoy the Broadway sound, Rhetoricians!
Today Kingcow and Heather listen to the fifth album from Collective Soul, "Blender". Kingcow really likes the song, "Why, Pt. 2" so he played the first side. Hope the Rhetoricians enjoy it.
The final "turkey" for the season is an album that Kingcow doesn't know where it came from nor had he ever listened to. This 1982 release, from radio station KQRS 92 in Minneapolis, MN, is a compilation of various local bands. Kingcow and Heather both listened to it not knowing what to expect. It turns out that some tracks were alright and overall it wasn't awful. Give it a listen and see what you think.
Miss Nightbringer's "turkey" is outstanding! Kingcow did not know what to expect and was quite pleased with the results. Once again, it must be pointed out that this is actually a children's educational album. Happy Thanksgiving, Rhetoricians!
Heather brought this double album. She really enjoyed the movie and the music. Kingcow has seen nor heard neither. This is the first side of album one.
Kingcow and Heather listen to this "turkey". To be honest, it is not actually a music album, but it is an album in Kingcow's collection. He has no idea where it came from but it did amuse him.
(k)INGCOW and (h)EATHER finish up her 4-sided best of album. (k)INGCOW did not find it as disturbing as he expected. In fact, he rather enjoyed it. (h)EATHER did well in this selection. We hope The (r)HETORICIANS find similar enjoyment. If not, you know where to contact us. ;)
Kingcow and Heather listen to the third solo album released by The Who guitarist, Pete Townshend. Kingcow bought this album in 1982 and listened to it often. This is probably the first time he has listened to it since 1986. It brought back many memories. Hopefully, The Rhetoricians appreciate this side.
The Crafty DM brought this late '60's classic. Kingcow and Crafty discuss side 2. In addition, they discuss one song on side 2. Enjoy this funky psychedelic ride!
"We're on a mission from God." Kingcow and The Crafty DM listen to side 1 of this album from the classic movie, "The Blues Brothers". Kingcow picked this up in 1980 and listened to it a lot. Hopefully, the Rhetoricians can enjoy is as well.
Heather has some sort of OCD and has to finish the whole album before she moves to something else. Kingcow likes his sound. Not being exposed to this, he hears some elements of bands he enjoys. This double album seems to have something for everyone...if you can get past his strangeness. LOL
Kingcow and Heather listen to the sophomore release of "The Big Man", E Street Band member, Clarence Clemons. Kingcow really liked the first single off the album, a duet between Clemons and Jackson Browne. He really liked the saxophone throughout the album. Not listening for a while brought back some memories. Enjoy Rhetoricians!
Heather's OCD will not allow her to play another album until she has played the whole album. Hence, we get to listen to side 2 of Marilyn Manson's greatest hits (plus the last song of side 1 which we failed to play during the first show). Kingcow surprisingly really likes the music so far. It might not be for the fainthearted, though. Enjoy!
Kingcow brought the sophomore release of this '80's band. Heather had heard the first song but none of the others. Kingcow really enjoyed this album. Hopefully the Rhetoricians do as well.
The Crafty DM brought this album to the table, once again surprising Kingcow with his eclectic tastes. There are some very nice harmonies on this album. Hopefully the Rhetoricians appreciate this.
Kingcow brought this album for the Crafty DM to listen to. This, their 8th album, is a good listen. Many will be familiar with "Burning For You".
Heather and Kingcow are saddened by the passing of a member of one of the greatest rock and roll bands of all time. On August 24, 2021, Charlie Watts, drummer for The Rolling Stones passed away. He kept the beat for the band for 58 years! He will be missed. R.I.P. Charlie R.I.P.
The Crafty DM brought this Santana rocker. The legend plays guitar on several "classic" rock songs. He definitely shreds. This is the third co-host to play a Santana album. Enjoy these hits performed by a genius.
Episode 250....WOW! Thanks so much for listening, Rhetoricians! Of course, a monumental episode deserves a monumental group. Once again, Kingcow plays a Queen album for a milestone. This album is one of Queen's finest. Kingcow thought long and hard about taking this to the island. Hope you all enjoy this one and hopefully we'll have another 250.
Heather brought this album. Kingcow, not having heard his music, was not sure what to expect. Surprisingly, he liked it. Be forewarned, there are some explicit lyrics.
Once again, Kingcow is playing the second side of an album he played for The Blob. This time it is with Heather. Episode 24 was when side 1 was played. This rock-a-billy group is really liked by Kingcow. Not a bad song on the album. Enjoy!
Kingcow played this for The Blob way back in Episode 10. He finally got around to playing the second side, this time for The Panda. Had this not been a greatest hits album it would have gone to the island. Sit back and enjoy this one.
The Panda brought this comedy album. Dan Cummins brings some really poignant and funny observational humor. The Panda has seen him live more than once, and she really likes him. Kingcow listens to two of his podcasts, "Timesuck" and "Scared To Death". Be forewarned, there is some salty language!
Heather chose to play side 2 first. You can hear it in Episode 243. This is the second album she has played which Kingcow also owns. There are some really strong rockers on this side.
The Crafty DM brought this 58 year old piece of vinyl. One of the Rat Pack, this is a frolicking good time. Sammy does some comedy, singing, and impressions. This was side 3 of this double album. Enjoy this nostalgic look back in time.
Heather brought this gem. The debut album from Guns N' Roses does not disappoint. She chose to play the second side. Kingcow knows the songs, but not the names. Enjoy this tour-de-force.
This 1983 release was The Thompson Twins' third album. Kingcow picked it up in Japan. It is a sound that he really enjoys. Definitely an '80's synth sound.
This is Heather's final side of her island albums. Tori Amos can definitely sing and play the piano. We hope you enjoy this offering.
This, their fifth studio album, has some very intriguing songs. While probably not everyone's cup of tea, it is an iconic sound from this group.
This is the debut album of Tori Amos. Little Earthquakes is Heather's fifth and final island album. The passionate redhead's voice and piano playing are extremely dynamic.
This is the fourth album from this Bay Area, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, inductee. Kingcow really enjoys their sound because of his wife's love of this group. The Blob played an earlier album from them. Steve Perry makes his debut on this album.
We lost another rock legend. Dusty Hill, of ZZ Top, passed away. Way back in Episode 7, The Blob played Tejas, ZZ Top's fifth album. Heather really liked their sound and sought out more. She brought this, their first album. Hill, ZZ Top's bassist, was a member of the band for over 50 years! R.I.P. Dusty R.I.P.
This, the third album from The Beatles, is the first one which they wrote all the songs. It contains several classics and remains timeless.
Ironically, ten days before this, Heather and Kingcow played side 2 of this album. Rock violinist and member of Kansas, Robby Steinhardt, passed away on July 17, 2021. Kansas has a very iconic sound and Robby was a big part of that. R.I.P. Robby.
This is Heather's fourth island album. Kingcow enjoyed both sides of this piece of vinyl. Heather really likes this group and struggled to narrow down which of their albums she would take. Kick back and enjoy the fourth album from these guys.
Kingcow thinks this is the first album he ever got. He really likes the songs and voice of Jim Croce. One of several artists that died way too soon. Hopefully the Rhetoricians will enjoy the folksy songs as well.
This is the sophomore release from Santana. It definitely has a Latin feel to it. Carlos Santana's guitar is prominent and very smooth on this album. The Panda brought this and it is well worth a listen.
This episode, Kingcow chose several of his 12" singles to play. These songs were heard in the dance clubs and very entertaining. The Rhetoricians may have also heard one or two of these songs. The Panda certainly had!
Heather brought this piece of vinyl. Panic at the Disco's fourth album sounds good. A combination of electronic, dance and synth, this album has a little something for everyone. Kingcow really likes their sound.
This 1987 release is the first remix album from Madonna. All the songs are recorded together for playing the side with non-stop dance/club feel. If you enjoy Madonna you will enjoy this offering.
This is the 10th album from this duo. Kingcow really enjoys their sound. Hall and Oates know how to craft some smooth songs. Hopefully, the Rhetoricians enjoy this offering.
This self-titled debut album was typical of 80's music. Lots of synth, easy to dance to, catchy rhythms. Released in the U.K. as Burning Bridges, this album reached #32 in the U.S. Enjoy, Rhetoricians!
This is side 2 of Heather's 3rd island album. Kingcow has this album in his collection and really enjoyed it. This is a great choice for the album. Enjoy rhetoricians! Hope you had a great 4th.
This was the third album from this group. Playing Bluegrass and Americana, this trio has a unique sound. The Panda was introduced to them in high school. A very mellow sound.
This is the seventh solo album from Paul Simon. It is considered some of his best work. It is a 1986 release. The album itself is very diverse and intriguing. Kingcow really enjoyed it when he got it. Heather really liked it and is taking it to the island.
This 1984 release is the second solo album from John Waite. Way back in Episode 10 Kingcow played The Babys album, Anthology, which featured Waite as the lead vocalist. This is a really nice album. Enjoy!
This is the final side of Heather's second island album. This was fun going through with her. Remember to let us know which five albums you would bring to the island. Enjoy!
This is the fifth album from Rick James. Kingcow discovered him in the dance clubs. James brings a nice funk with a hint of humor and reality. If you want to get freaky, pick this album up!
This break-through album by John Cougar was his fifth. Crafty DM played side two and Kingcow really enjoyed the memories it brought back.
This is Side Two of the soundtrack. Crafty DM and Kingcow both enjoyed this movie. Surprising to Kingcow, Crafty DM knew what scene the music was for. Outstanding.
This is the third album from The Pretenders. Released in 1984, Kingcow had many fond memories of this disc. Discussed with The Panda, she really breaks this record down. Enjoy Rhetoricians!
This is side 3 of Heather's 2nd island album. This is a nice side. Unfortunately, we don't understand Latin so feel we are missing a great deal. Oh well, as we mentioned, we might eventually learn it. Enjoy Rhetoricians!
This is the sixth album from this English synth pop band. Kingcow enjoyed their sound. Surprisingly, Heather had not heard them before. Hope you like what you hear!
This is side 2 of Heather's classical double album which she would take to the island. This has some interesting interludes during the music. Listening to this could make one very reflective or introspective. Relax and listen.
This self-titled release was the third album and the final one with Bradley Nowell. Their reggae/punk/ska sound seems pretty unique. As far as albums go, this was a decent choice by The Panda.
Once again a musician has passed away. Once again only Kingcow knows who he was. The album, "Reunion", was the second musical album that Kingcow owned. Kingcow enjoyed this album. Heather not so much. R.I.P. B. J. R.I.P.
This 1985 release was listened to regularly by Kingcow. This former member of The Time sounded good out on his own. Hopefully, after hearing this, you Rhetoricians will want to get up and dance! Enjoy!
This is the fourth album from .38 Special. Kingcow really enjoyed this '81 release. Good southern rock.
Here is another first for Vinyl Rhetoric...a classical album. This one is interesting to Kingcow because it has operatic singing on it. This might be one of Heather's island albums. Sit back with a nice beverage and relax to the first side of Requiem.
This the 11th album from Fleetwood Mac. It's definitely a classic! Enjoy side two of this 1977 release.
This is the third album from The Mamas & The Papas. They have a distinct sound. Not bad from an album that came out in 1967.
The Panda brought this popular group. Kingcow had really only heard the name of the band. He ended up really liking the album. We're sure the Rhetoricians are more familiar with them than Kingcow was. Enjoy!
Kingcow is introduced to the "mash-up". This album was not his favorite. It enjoyed some success and they did receive a Grammy. Beware, there are explicit lyrics.
In Episode 203 we played a banjo player. This is the first side of that album. Both sides are legendary performer, Steve Martin. He plays the banjo on side two and does comedy on side one. The cover art is the back side of the album. The front is him dressed as a sleazy Las Vegas lounge lizard. There is some profanity during a couple of the tracks. We hope you Rhetoricians get a good laugh out of this. And, congratulations to those of you that guessed who it was.
This sophomore release from Night Ranger included their biggest hit, "Sister Christian". While not one of Kingcow's favorites he has had his appreciation of this group grow over the years. This album definitely rocks. Enjoy!
Kingcow really liked this album when it came out. The front man for Creedence sounds really good on this 1985 release. Heather seemed to appreciate it, as well.
This is the flip side of Heather Nightbringer's first island album. Kingcow definitely will be around when she's playing it. This is straight up rock!
The Panda brought this iconic blues singer to the Rhetoricians. Even if you don't know the name, you will know the voice. Anyone interested in picking up something by Ray Charles would do well to get this gem!
Kingcow brought this offering. Side One will be played in a future episode. See if you're as smart as his wife and the Panda...they both figured out who it was on the first track. Good luck and enjoy!
Sadly, on April 22, 2021, the face of Digital Underground, Shock G, passed away at the age of 57. Gregory Jacobs was an iconic front man. While not extremely knowledgeable of the group Kingcow did like their sound. This is their second album, "Sons of the P". R.I.P. Shock G R.I.P.
The Panda's choice, here, was a nice album. Kingcow enjoyed listening to this side. We're sure there is a Deadhead or two out there. Sit back, relax and do what the Dead would do.
This Australian new wave band really hit it big with their debut album. Kingcow really enjoyed it. The Panda did as well. Some really solid songs on this one.
Wow!!! Hard to believe this is Episode 200. Thanks Rhetoricians for all you support. What a surprise that Kingcow would pick something from Queen for this milestone. This album is awesome. Enjoy.
Kingcow had no clue who this band was. Put the album on and was pleasantly surprised. Heather recognized the first song as being on the Dazed and Confused ll soundtrack. Enjoy this debut album from Head East.
Kingcow does his first show with Heather Nightbringer. She brought a rockin' album. This is one of her five island albums.
The Panda brought this smooth blues album. Kingcow really enjoyed this offering. Great vocals accompanied by some accomplished musicians!
This Kingcow selection rocks! He was pretty sure the Panda would know the artist. Rhetoricians enjoy this sophomore release.
The Crafty DM brought this gem. Kingcow, already a Heart fan, had not heard this piece of vinyl and he enjoy it. So glad to be back and recording.
Kingcow is joined by a new co-host for this episode, The Crafty DM. This 1978 release still sounds great. Hopefully, the Rhetoricians will enjoy as well.
This is the first comedy album to be played on Vinyl Rhetoric. It's a 1960 pressing of two comedy geniuses. We hope you have a good laugh listening to it.
This is one of the first albums that Kingcow started listening to. Several hundred listens and it is still an AWESOME album. Ten certified hits on this disc. Enjoy!
This offering came from The Panda. It's a little folk, a little bluegrass and a little country. Kingcow found it an interesting listen. The Panda really enjoys it.
This is a favorite of Kingcow. This band has great music and puts on a fantastic show. Hope you all enjoy it as much as he does.
This gem is something you want to listen to if you want to get in the mood! Played the second side not knowing what to expect, because it was recorded over a year ago, it turned out to be alright. Enjoy Rhetoricians.
Kingcow would like to present this all time classic performer...Sir Elton John. This is one of a few Elton John albums in his collection. This episode also includes the introduction of another new co-host, JP. Thanks all for listening.
The first show done without the Blob. Kingcow brought in a new co-host, The Panda. She played what Kingcow thought was a really strong album. Hope you enjoy this as much as he did.
I have been putting this off for a while. It makes me sad. R.I.P. Blob. Thanks all for listening. Vinyl Rhetoric will be coming back!
This is an excellent piece of vinyl. Brian May and Eddie Van Halen together, with Alan Gratzer, Phil Chen and Fred Mandel make for a nice makeshift group. Enjoy this one...the Blob sure did.
This 1974 release surprised Kingcow. He did not expect the Blob to have something like this in his collection. It was thoroughly enjoyed by both of us. Hope that the Rhetoricians enjoy it as well.
This is an extremely representative 80's sound. Kingcow enjoyed this group. Good luck guessing. The last segment he reveals who it is.