EP 82. I've Got Pac-Man Fever

In this thrilling episode of The New Dad Rock, Keith and Steve travel back to 1982, a year marked by eclectic musical milestones and cultural shifts. The iconic musical "Cats" begins its 18-year run on Broadway, becoming a defining cultural moment of the decade. Meanwhile, the end of the 70s is marked by ABBA's final original single "Under Attack," closing the chapter on the most successful group of the 1970s. 

Themes of 1982 span from the domination of soft electronic pop and new wave to the brewing undercurrent of heavier metal and satanic themes in music. The episode touches on the tragic loss of comedian and musician John Belushi, the revolutionary debut of compact discs in Japanese music stores, and Keith's personal memory of the "Pac-Man Fever" craze. Steve recalls Ozzy Osbourne's wild year, from bat-biting incidents and arrests to the tragic death of his guitarist Randy Rhoads. They also reminisce about the catchy tune "The Safety Dance" by Men Without Hats and its iconic music video.

1982 was a year of significant releases that have stood the test of time. Michael Jackson's game-changing album "Thriller" released in November and became the best-selling album of all time. Duran Duran's "Rio" peaked at number 2 on the UK Albums Chart and remains a staple in new wave music. The year also saw classic hits from Scorpions’ "Black Out," Asia’s self-titled album, Flock of Seagulls, Steve Miller’s "Abracadabra," Culture Club, and Led Zeppelin’s posthumous "Coda." Keith and Steve explore how these albums and singles made waves in 1982 and left a lasting impact on the music industry.

Wrapping up, Keith and Steve discuss the albums from 1982 that they still listen to today. These include R.E.M.'s "Chronic Town," Iron Maiden's "The Number of the Beast," Bauhaus, Violent Femmes, and The Cure’s "Pornography." The episode is a nostalgic trip that highlights the transformative moments and lasting legacies of the music we love, capturing the vibrant and varied musical landscape of 1982. Tune in to Episode 82 of The New Dad Rock for an immersive journey through a year that defined an era.