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The episode kicks off with Steve’s review of a recent Swans concert he attended and a quick primer on the Michale Gira-led ensemble. Next is a serendipitous Wikipedia rabbit hole that led Keith to American Music Club, a band that formed in 1983 but didn’t release an album until 1985. They reminisce about the iconic debut of the music video for Michael Jackson's "Thriller." They also reflect on personal memories from 1983, like Keith's paper route days soundtracked by Huey Lewis and The News' "Sports" and the excitement of early music video experiences.

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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.

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1981 - A Year of Musical Transformations

Join Keith and Steve in this electrifying episode of The New Dad Rock as they travel back to 1981, a year that saw monumental shifts and unforgettable moments in the music world. Here’s what’s in store:

• Petitioning for Justice: The hosts kick off the episode with a heartfelt petition to restore the Tony Award to its rightful name, honoring Antoinette Perry and giving her the recognition she deserves.
• Solo Ventures: Classic rock artists took bold steps into solo careers in '81. Keith and Steve explore these new paths and how these artists carved out their own identities.
• Punk Goes Pop: Witness the transformation of punk rock as it blends with pop, bringing a fresh and catchy twist to the rebellious genre.
• Legend Lost: 1981 was a year of significant loss in the music world. The dads pay tribute to reggae legend Bob Marley and, more recently, influential music figure Steve Albini.
• New Order and Duran Duran: Rising from the ashes of Joy Division, New Order brought a new wave of electronic music that defined the decade. Meanwhile, Duran Duran burst onto the scene with their infectious pop hits.
• The Shards Soundtrack: Bret Easton Ellis' novel "The Shards" boasts a soundtrack that perfectly captures the era's vibe. The hosts discuss how these tracks enhance the narrative and evoke the spirit of '81.
• Rock's Darker Side: Rock returned with more speed and a touch of Satan. Keith and Steve explore the bands that embraced faster tempos and darker themes, adding a new dimension to the rock landscape.

Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, punk, new wave, or reggae, Episode 81 of The New Dad Rock has something for everyone. Tune in to relive the music and moments that made 1981 an unforgettable year in music history.

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