Accelerated Culture
2024 WEBBY AWARDS HONOREE FOR BEST INDIE PODCAST! Accelerated Culture: The Rise of Alternative Music in the 80s and Beyond is a walk through an often-ignored bit of music history. We explore how new wave stormed the airwaves in the early 80s and gave way for the rise of alternative music. Find us on the web at AcceleratedCulturePodcast.com. Please note: The music clips included in this podcast fall under the ”Fair Use Doctrine” as defined by Section 107 of the Copyright Act. The law allows for use of music clips for purposes of criticism, comment, and news reporting.
Episodes
Saturday Dec 02, 2023
Episode 32: Nine Inch Nails’ “Pretty Hate Machine” (1989)
Saturday Dec 02, 2023
Saturday Dec 02, 2023
Accelerated Culture continues its trek through 1989 with a deep dive into the debut album by Nine Inch Nails, “Pretty Hate Machine. ” Laurie and Rob start with an examination of Trent Reznor’s past, following the path that led him to create one of the landmark albums of the decade. That's followed by an in-depth inspection of each of the ten tracks, starting with the righteous anger of “Head Like A Hole” and wrapping up with the moody “Ringfinger.” Join us as we look at all the parts used to build such a “Pretty Hate Machine."
Saturday Nov 18, 2023
Episode 31: New Order’s “Technique” (1989)
Saturday Nov 18, 2023
Saturday Nov 18, 2023
Accelerated Culture moves into 1989 in this episode as we do a track-by-track deep dive into New Order’s masterpiece, “Technique.” Listen along as Laurie and Rob, former Mr. Disco 1978 (allegedly!–Laurie), recap the origins of New Order and follow the path that led to the acid house tinge of this album. From the classic sound of “All The Way” to the shining synths of “Vanishing Point”, you’ll have a fine time listening as we break down the album with style and class, and show you how much we love “Technique.”
Saturday Nov 04, 2023
Episode 30: Jane’s Addiction’s “Nothing’s Shocking” (1988)
Saturday Nov 04, 2023
Saturday Nov 04, 2023
We return to 1988 in this episode to plunge into the landmark alt-rock album “Nothing’s Shocking” by Jane’s Addiction. Hosts Laurie and Rob examine the band’s beginnings and internal struggles before evaluating each individual cut, including the driving “Mountain Song,” the lazy beauty of “Summertime Rolls,” and the scathing “Ted, Just Admit It.” Join us as we explore the unforgettable sounds and stories behind this timeless album that influenced an entire generation of alternative artists.
Saturday Oct 21, 2023
Episode 29: Oingo Boingo’s “Dead Man’s Party” (1985)
Saturday Oct 21, 2023
Saturday Oct 21, 2023
Happy Halloween! In this eerie episode, Laurie and Rob deviate from the usual chronology to do a creepy deep dive into the Oingo Boingo masterpiece, “Dead Man’s Party”! We discuss the band’s origins and evolution and then delve into the mysteries behind each track from the album: the dark isolation of “Just Another Day,” the longing of “Stay,” the ghostly glee of “No One Lives Forever”—all here submitted for your approval.
Leave your body at the door and join us at the party everyone’s dying to get into!
Saturday Oct 07, 2023
Episode 28: The Church’s “Starfish” (1988)
Saturday Oct 07, 2023
Saturday Oct 07, 2023
In this captivating podcast episode, we delve deep into the ethereal soundscape of The Church’s iconic 1988 album, “Starfish.” Join us as we embark on a sonic journey through its lush, dreamy melodies and poetic lyricism, exploring the album’s profound influence on alternative rock and its lasting legacy in the music industry. We unravel the creative process behind this masterpiece, shedding light on the album’s enigmatic title, its standout tracks, and the band’s unique blend of psychedelia and new wave elements. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to The Church’s sonic universe, this episode promises to immerse you in the timeless allure of “Starfish” and its enduring impact on the world of music.
Saturday Sep 23, 2023
Episode 27: Duran Duran’s “Big Thing” (1988) & Welcome, Rob!
Saturday Sep 23, 2023
Saturday Sep 23, 2023
In this episode we delve deep into the iconic Duran Duran album “Big Thing.” Join Laurie along with our new co-host and resident music aficionado Rob as they take you on a track-by-track exploration of this groundbreaking record. From the infectious rhythms of “I Don’t Want Your Love” to the ethereal sounds of “Palomino,” we dissect each song's unique production, lyrical themes, and the band's innovative sonic experiments that pushed the boundaries of their signature New Romantic sound. We also include a few non-album tracks, including Simon LeBon’s solo track “Grey Lady of the Sea” and “Follow in my Footsteps,” part of a band side project. Tune in to relive the magic of this influential album and gain new insights into the creative genius behind one of the ’80s most enduring bands.================================================Laurie & Rob are going to be participating in a LIVE video podcast for International Podcast Day on Saturday, September 30, 2023. Tickets to this virtual event are FREE, but you have to register here: https://hopin.com/events/international-podcast-day-2023Accelerated Culture Podcast will be closing out the day with a set from 8:30-9:00pm EDT. Come join us LIVE as we share & discuss our favorite music videos from the 1980s! Be sure to register for FREE: https://hopin.com/events/international-podcast-day-2023
Saturday Sep 09, 2023
Episode 26: The Music of 1988
Saturday Sep 09, 2023
Saturday Sep 09, 2023
In this captivating podcast episode, we take a nostalgic journey back to the musical landscape of 1988, a year that marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of alternative music. From the pulsating synth-pop sounds of Erasure and Information Society, to the irreverent and quirky punk vibes of The Dead Milkmen, and the enigmatic allure of Q. Lazzarus, whose haunting vocals graced the iconic “Goodbye Horses,” we explore the diverse and groundbreaking tracks that defined this era. Join us as we unravel the sonic tapestry of 1988, delving into the cultural and musical influences that shaped these artists and their enduring impact on the alternative music scene.
We are sad to announce that this will be Trey’s last episode as co-host! Wishing him the best of luck with his future endeavors, including plans for a new horror film podcast. Check back in two weeks for Episode #27 when we will introduce our new co-host.
Saturday Aug 26, 2023
Episode 25: U2’s “The Joshua Tree” (1987)
Saturday Aug 26, 2023
Saturday Aug 26, 2023
This week, Laurie & Trey dive into the sonic landscape of U2’s iconic 1987 album “The Joshua Tree.” We uncover the rich layers of each track and take you on a track-by-track journey through the album’s soul-stirring melodies and profound lyrical narratives. From the desert-inspired ambience of “Where the Streets Have No Name” to the introspective depths of “With or Without You,” this episode explores how the album’s themes of hope, spirituality, and social commentary were masterfully woven into every chord progression and poetic verse. Join us as we unravel the stories behind the songs, the creative process that brought them to life, and the enduring impact “The Joshua Tree” has left on the landscape of rock music. Whether you’re a dedicated U2 fan or a newcomer, prepare to be transported into the heart of this musical masterpiece.
Saturday Aug 12, 2023
Episode 24: Sinéad O’Connor’s “The Lion & The Cobra” (1987)
Saturday Aug 12, 2023
Saturday Aug 12, 2023
With the recent passing of Sinéad O’Connor on July 26, 2023, we felt it was only appropriate to pay tribute to this legendary outspoken Irish singer. In this episode, we will explore the life of Sinéad O’Connor through bits of her 2021 memoir Rememberings as well as her songwriting, including a track-by-track exploration of her 1987 debut, The Lion & The Cobra. We’ll examine her complicated life, from her abusive childhood to her many loves, her religion... and of course, her controversies in the media. Please join us as we mourn the loss of this fiery, outspoken artist.
Trigger Warning: This episode discusses child abuse, abortion, and suicide.
Saturday Jul 29, 2023
Episode 23: New Order’s “Substance” (1987)
Saturday Jul 29, 2023
Saturday Jul 29, 2023
In the early 80s, a new band rose from the ashes of Joy Division. This Manchester quartet rebranded themselves as New Order, and they went on to have a string of pop and dance hits. “Substance,” released in 1987, stands as a remarkable compilation of the band’s most influential and innovative work up to that point, combining elements of electronic music with rock to a unique and captivating sound that would define the era. The album is a treasure trove of hit singles, including iconic tracks like “Blue Monday,” “Bizarre Love Triangle,” and “True Faith,” all of which have left an indelible mark on the music landscape.