Two Fat Guys & An Album

The Doors (2FGA #10)

Welcome to Two Fat Guys and an Album… the only fat guys podcast that matters! This week, your hosts Mike Blackburn and Maestro Brek Hufnus are taking a deep dive into two iconic albums: The Doors by The Doors and GoGo Boots by Drive-By Truckers. Get ready as they explore these two masterpieces, each in its own way marking a milestone in rock history.
 
First, the guys will take on The Doors (1967), the groundbreaking debut album from Jim Morrison and the band that forever changed the landscape of rock music. With its mesmerizing blend of jazz, blues, and psychedelic rock, The Doors introduced the world to Morrison’s poetic lyrics and haunting vocals, as well as Ray Manzarek's iconic keyboard playing. Tracks like “Break On Through (To the Other Side),” “Light My Fire,” and “The End” stand as timeless anthems, blending dark, mysterious imagery with captivating musical experimentation. Mike and Brek will delve into how The Doors not only captured the spirit of the 60s counterculture but also established the band as one of rock’s most enigmatic and influential acts.
 
Then, in this week’s Beyond Classic Rock segment, the guys will turn their attention to GoGo Boots (2011), the critically acclaimed album from Drive-By Truckers. With its Southern rock roots and deep, reflective storytelling, GoGo Boots explores themes of love, loss, and redemption with a raw authenticity that has become the band's trademark. Tracks like “The Fireplace Song” and “Go-Go Boots” showcase the band’s ability to blend heartfelt lyricism with their signature gritty sound. Mike and Brek will break down how GoGo Boots captures the essence of Southern life while pushing the boundaries of alt-country rock, proving that Drive-By Truckers are more than just a Southern rock band—they're poets of the modern age.
 
Tune in for an insightful and entertaining discussion of two albums that continue to resonate with fans and musicians alike.

Aqualung (2FGA #9)

Welcome to Two Fat Guys and an Album… the only fat guys podcast that matters! This week, your hosts Mike Blackburn and Maestro Brek Hufnus are diving into a true classic: Aqualung by Jethro Tull. Get ready as they explore this 1971 album that cemented the band's place in rock history. With its distinctive blend of folk, hard rock, and progressive influences, Aqualung not only introduced the world to Ian Anderson’s unique flute playing but also his thought-provoking lyrics. Tracks like “Aqualung,” “Locomotive Breath,” and “Cross-Eyed Mary” stand out as timeless pieces that mix social commentary with powerful melodies. Mike and Brek will dig into how Aqualung challenged musical conventions and captured the spirit of early 70s rock, with Anderson’s vision at the heart of it all.
 
But that’s not all! In this week’s Beyond Classic Rock segment, the guys will dive into No Name, the 2024 album from Jack White. This release brings a fresh perspective to White's already diverse catalog, offering an experimental mix of garage rock, blues, and electronic textures. Tracks like “Archbishop Harold Holmes” and “Old Scratch Blues” showcase White’s ability to fuse traditional blues with his unique, modern spin, while continuing to push musical boundaries. Mike and Brek will discuss how No Name takes Jack White’s sound in a new direction, exploring deeper, darker themes, and offering a compelling blend of raw energy and intricate musicianship. Join Mike and Brek for a fun and insightful conversation on Aqualung, No Name, and so much more—only on Two Fat Guys and an Album!
 
Thanks to our sponsors and contributors! twofatguysalbum@gmail.com Diane@yourhomegroupchi.com Deeper Connections Counseling www.dcctherapy.com LR Media: LauraRose2003@aol.com SmidgeFilms: Smidgefilms@gmail.com

Dream of Blue Turtles (2FGA #8)

Welcome to Two Fat Guys and an Album… the only fat guys podcast that matters! This week, your hosts Mike Blackburn and Maestro Brek Hufnus are diving into a true classic, Dream of the Blue Turtles by Sting. Get ready as they break down this 1985 album that marked Sting’s bold departure from The Police, blending jazz, rock, and reggae influences with his signature poetic lyrics. Tracks like “If You Love Somebody Set Them Free,” “Russians,” and “Fortress Around Your Heart” showcase Sting’s ability to weave complex themes into accessible, catchy songs. They'll explore how the album’s unique mix of genres and sophisticated arrangements not only solidified Sting’s solo career but also brought a fresh sound to the mid-80s music scene.
But that’s not all! In this week’s Beyond Classic Rock segment, the guys will dive into Nothing Is Wrong, the second album from Dawes. This 2011 release takes the band's Laurel Canyon-inspired sound to a deeper, more introspective level. With tracks like “Time Spent in Los Angeles,” “How Far We’ve Come,” and “A Little Bit of Everything,” Nothing Is Wrong showcases Dawes’ ability to craft heartfelt, nostalgic songs that balance personal reflection with universal appeal. Mike and Brek will discuss how this album evolved from their debut, highlighting the emotional depth and musical growth that helped solidify Dawes as one of the standout Americana bands of the 2010s.
Join Mike and Brek for a fun and insightful conversation on Dream of the Blue Turtles, Nothing Is Wrong, and so much more—only on Two Fat Guys and an Album!

Bat Out of Hell (2FGA #7)

Welcome to Two Fat Guys and an Album... the only fat guys podcast that matters! This week, hosts Mike Blackburn and Maestro Brek Hufnus are turning the spotlight on one of rock’s greatest epics, Bat Out of Hell by Meat Loaf. Get ready as they break down this 1977 powerhouse that blends operatic flair with hard rock grit, featuring legendary tracks like "Paradise by the Dashboard Light," "Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad," and of course, the title track. They’ll explore how this album’s dramatic storytelling, powerful vocals, and rock opera influences transformed the genre and made it a timeless classic. Bat Out of Hell is celebrated for its cinematic approach to rock, featuring soaring melodies, ambitious arrangements, and unforgettable lyrics.
 
But of course, the fun doesn't stop there! In this episode’s Beyond Classic Rock segment, the guys will dive into the fascinating difference between Nickel Creek and Punch Brothers. While both bands share some of the same members, their sounds couldn’t be more distinct. Nickel Creek’s self-titled debut album brought progressive bluegrass into the mainstream with their energetic blend of folk, bluegrass, and modern influences. On the other hand, Punch Brothers take a more experimental approach, blending bluegrass with classical, jazz, and even indie rock to create a unique and intricate sound. Mike and Brek will break down how these two bands, with similar roots, diverged into different musical landscapes and what makes each of them so special in their own right. Join Mike and Brek for an engaging and entertaining discussion on Bat Out of Hell, Nickel Creek, and much more—only on Two Fat Guys and an Album!

Moving Pictures (2FGA #6)

Welcome to Two Fat Guys and an Album...The only fat guys podcast that matters! This week, host Mike Blackburn and Maestro Brek Hufnus are putting the spotlight on the 1981 rock masterpiece “Moving Pictures” by Rush. Get ready as the guys break down what makes this album a timeless classic, featuring iconic hits like Tom Sawyer, YYZ, and Limelight. They’ll explore how the album blends progressive rock with more accessible elements, bringing in tighter structures while maintaining their intricate musicianship. Moving Pictures is often praised for its complex arrangements, technical precision, and rich lyrics. The album features a mix of hard rock, synth-driven pieces, and timeless progressive rock compositions. But of course, the conversation doesn't stop there! Each week, the guys also share what they're currently listening to, the latest in new music, and throw in a hidden gem or forgotten classic in their “Beyond Classic Rock” segment. This week’s Hidden Gem is “Old Time Speaker” (2014) by Bronze Radio Return. The album showcases the band’s signature blend of Americana, folk-rock, and roots music, infused with elements of indie rock and pop. Known for their energetic performances and emotive songwriting, Bronze Radio Return's “Old Time Speaker” continues to explore themes of nostalgia, connection, and the search for authenticity in a modern world. Join Mike and Brek for an engaging and fun dive into Moving Pictures and much more, only on Two Fat Guys and an Album!
0:00 Welcome!
3:00 Email from Van Morrison
8:30 Fine for Egregious Factual Error
12:30 Neal Peart agrees with The Maestro on his take on Punk music
23:20 Side One: Moving Pictures by Rush
49:30 Moving Pictures by Rush- really!
57:40 The end of an era?
1:04:45 Side Two: “What’s Going On?” Chicago II, Jon Anderson and The Band Geeks, Car Seat Headrest, Crig, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Neil Young, Matt Pond PA, Rush 50, Simple Minds, Modern English, Soft Cell.
1:32:40 Side Three “Beyond Classic Rock” Bronze Radio Return “Old Time Speaker”
1:44.00 Side Four: Rank the Albums
 
#Rush #NeilPeart #AlexLifeson #GeddyLee #VanMorrison #YachtRock #Drumeo #TheWreckingCrew #LoFi #Bronze Radio Return #Yes #SaltShed #Autobahn #ChamberPop #BenHarper #BruceHornsby Thanks to our sponsors and contributors! twofatguysalbum@gmail.com Diane@yourhomegroupchi.com Deeper Connections Counseling www.dcctherapy.com LR Media: LauraRose2003@aol.com SmidgeFilms: Smidgefilms@gmail.com #TwoFatGuysAndAnAlbum #MusicReview #AlbumReview #MusicPodcast #ClassicAlbums #NewMusic #Indie #MusicCulture #AlbumAnalysis #MusicDiscussion #musicpodcast

Blonde on Blonde (2FGA #5)

Welcome to Two Fat Guys and an Album, the podcast where two guys who love music dive deep into iconic albums! This week, your hosts Mike Blackburn and Brek Hufnus are turning their attention to Bob Dylan’s legendary 1966 album, Blonde on Blonde. Get ready as they unpack why this album is often hailed as a rock and roll masterpiece, with timeless tracks like “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,” “I Want You,” and the hauntingly beautiful “Visions of Johanna.” They’ll explore how Dylan’s innovative blend of folk, rock, and lyrical complexity changed the musical landscape and left a lasting mark on generations of artists.
Mike, your Narrator for the episode, will walk you through Dylan’s path to Blonde on Blonde, detailing his transition from folk icon to electric rock pioneer and examining the groundbreaking recording process that defined the album. Brek, the Maestro of Music, will share his expert insights on the album’s thematic depth, its reception upon release, and how it captured the cultural zeitgeist of the 1960s, with a focus on its influence that’s still felt today.
But the conversation doesn’t end there! Each week, the guys also talk about what they’ve been listening to lately, new releases making waves, and they throw in a Hidden Gem or forgotten classic for you to discover. This week’s Hidden Gem is The Hissing of Summer Lawns by Joni Mitchell—a bold, genre-defying album full of rich storytelling and musical experimentation.
Tune in for an insightful and entertaining discussion of Blonde on Blonde and much more, only on 2 Fat Guys and an Album!

Brothers In Arms (2FGA #4)

Welcome to 2 Fat Guys and an Album! This week, hosts Mike Blackburn and Brek Hufnus are putting the spotlight on the 1985 rock masterpiece Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits. Get ready as the guys break down what makes this album a timeless classic, featuring iconic hits like Money for Nothing, Walk of Life, and, of course, the emotional title track Brothers in Arms. They'll explore how this blend of rock, jazz, and the polished production of the ‘80s gave the band its massive success and how the album still resonates today.
Mike, your narrator, will take you through the backstory of Dire Straits—marking their rise from humble beginnings to global superstardom—and the making of Brothers in Arms, including Mark Knopfler’s unique guitar work and storytelling prowess. Brek, the Maestro of Music, will offer his expert take on the album’s themes, critical reception, and its place in the 1980s rock scene, as well as its lasting influence on music.
But of course, the conversation doesn't stop there! Each week, the guys also share what they're currently listening to, the latest in new music, and throw in a Hidden Gem or forgotten classic that you might have missed. This week’s Hidden Gem is Purple Mountains by David Berman—a deeply introspective and beautifully haunting album that blends folk rock with Berman’s signature lyrical depth.
Join Mike and Brek for an engaging and fun dive into Brothers in Arms and much more, only on 2 Fat Guys and an Album!

Breakfast in America (2FGA #3)

Welcome to 2 Fat Guys and an Album! This week, hosts Mike Blackburn and Brek Hufnus are diving into the 1979 classic Breakfast in America by Supertramp. Join the guys as they explore what made this album a massive success, featuring iconic hits like The Logical Song, Goodbye Stranger, and Take the Long Way Home. They'll dig into how this album’s mix of pop, prog rock, and symphonic elements captured the late ‘70s and whether it still holds up today.
Mike, your narrator, will take you through the history of Supertramp, the band’s evolution, and the making of Breakfast in America, from its key members like Roger Hodgson and Rick Davies to its legendary cover art. Brek, the maestro of music, will provide expert insights into the album’s legacy, contemporary reviews, and his thoughts on its enduring influence.
But the conversation doesn't end there—each week, the guys also discuss what they're listening to, what new music has caught their attention, and share a hidden gem or forgotten masterpiece that might deserve a second look.
Join Mike and Brek for an in-depth, entertaining dive into Breakfast in America and much more on 2 Fat Guys and an Album.

Moondance (2FGA #2)

Welcome to 2 Fat Guys and An Album, your weekly dive into iconic albums and modern hits! In this episode, we explore the magic of Van Morrison’s "Moondance"—a timeless classic that blends jazz, folk, and soul in a way only Van can. Join us as we break down the stories, sounds, and vibes behind this iconic album and more. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a good conversation about tunes, you’ll find something to vibe with here. But wait- there's more! In our Hidden Gems segment we take a closer look at "The Balcony" by Catfish and the Bottlemen on it's 10th Anniversary. Known for their catchy indie rock sound, energetic performances, and clever lyrics, this album brought Catfish and the Bottlemen widespread attention with hits like “Kathleen” and “Business.” Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for new episodes every week! 2:35 Sultan of Style 7:20 MTV Rant 18:50 Not “What’s Gong On, but…” Divorce Finance “You Can’t Say Whore on the Radio” 21:05 Van Morrison’s “Moondance” 52:00 Actual “What’s Going On” The Softies “The Bed I Made;” Rose Melburg “Each New Day;” Ben Kweller “Optimistic;” Wicked, Violent Femmes with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Ringo Starr “Look Up,” The Beatles US Mono Box 1:17 Hidden Gem: “The Balcony” by Catfish and the Bottlemen #Vanmorrison #Moondance #Softies #RoseMelberg #DivorceFinance #TheBeatles #RingoStarr #ViolentFemmes #CatfishandtheBottlemen #MTV #TheBandsLastWaltz #MarthaQuinn #CameronCrowe #TwoFatGuysAndAnAlbum #MusicReview #AlbumReview #MusicPodcast #ClassicAlbums #NewMusic #Indie #MusicCulture #AlbumAnalysis #MusicDiscussion

London Calling (2FGA #1)

2 Fat Guys and an Album takes a deep dive into a classic album each week, and this episode features London Calling by The Clash, exploring its cultural significance when it was released and its lasting relevance. Hosted by Mike Blackburn and Brek Hufnus, the show examines the album’s reviews, influences, and the pivotal role it played in shaping punk and rock music. Alongside London Calling, the hosts also discuss their current music obsessions and what’s exciting in the modern music scene. The episode wraps up with a recommendation for overlooked gems, providing listeners with more great music to rediscover.