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The New Dad Rock
Two college radio DJs during the 90s, hosts Keith and Steve helped expose bands like Nirvana, Pavement and PJ Harvey. They went to shows, interviewed musicians and reviewed albums for various zines and papers. They worked security at concerts and once, even did load-in for Phish. Now they’re dads. Whether you want to explore lesser-known music or take a trip down memory lane, tune in to The New Dad Rock. Join hosts Keith and Steve as they navigate the ages together, sharing their love of music across various eras and genres. Always well intentioned, often well informed, seldom boring, The New Dad Rock will expand your mind.
The New Dad Rock
EP 88. Music for the Masses
In this episode of The New Dad Rock, we dive into the electrifying year of 1988, where the worlds of metal, rock, and synth-pop collided in unexpected ways. We explore the rise of concept albums like Queensrÿche’s Operation: Mindcrime and King Diamond’s Them, which pushed the boundaries of storytelling in metal.
The Big Four of thrash metal—Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax—dominated with releases like ...And Justice for All, South of Heaven, So Far, So Good... So What!, and State of Euphoria. Meanwhile, the second tier of thrash, including bands like Testament, Overkill, and Death Angel, delivered powerful albums that kept the genre’s momentum going.
Synths still reigned supreme in the pop world with bands like Depeche Mode, New Order, and Yaz. At the same time, they began to influence industrial music, leading to groundbreaking releases from Ministry and Skinny Puppy. We also revisit R.E.M.’s Green, which marked a shift in the band’s sound and solidified their place in the alt-rock pantheon.
From the massive success of Def Leppard’s Hysteria to the Monsters of Rock Tour, 1988 was a year where genres collided, new sounds emerged, and nothing was shocking, though Donnie Darko and Fishbone were certainly a bit out there.
Join us as we reminisce about the music that defined 1988 and still resonates with us today.
Did you know that The New Dad Rock has swag? Coffee mugs, pillow and t-shirts in a multitude of colors and arm lengths.
