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On this episode of Let’s Talk Vinyl, I’m spinning Cheap Trick’s 2025 release All Washed Up — a late-career album that proves this band still knows how to write sharp, melodic rock with attitude and heart.

I talk about where Cheap Trick is right now as a band, how All Washed Up fits into their long history, and why this record feels more reflective without sounding tired or forced. There’s a seasoned confidence here — catchy hooks, classic Cheap Trick crunch, and lyrics that feel earned rather than nostalgic.

This episode dives into standout tracks, the overall feel of the album on vinyl, and why All Washed Up works as both a continuation and a statement from a band that refuses to coast on legacy alone. If you’re wondering whether Cheap Trick still delivers in 2025, this record — and this conversation — answers that question loud and clear.

Listen to this episode with vinyl music at: https://www.mixcloud.com/letstalkvinyl/lou-reed-new-sensations/!

New Sensations, Lou Reed’s thirteenth solo studio album, was released in April 1984 by RCA Records. Produced by John Jansen and Reed, the album reached No. 56 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and No. 92 on the UK Albums Chart. This marked Reed’s first charting success in the US Top 100 since his eighth album, Street Hassle (1978), and his first charting in the UK since his sixth album, Coney Island Baby (1976). Three singles were released from the album: “I Love You, Suzanne,” “My Red Joystick,” and “High in the City.” Only “I Love You, Suzanne” charted, peaking at No. 78 on the UK Singles Chart. The music video for “I Love You, Suzanne” received limited rotation on MTV.

For a deeper dive into this episode with actual vinyl music, listen at: https://www.mixcloud.com/letstalkvinyl/phillip-michael-scales-good-to-be-here-interview/

On this episode of Let’s Talk Vinyl, I sit down with singer-songwriter Philip-Michael Scales to talk about his fantastic album Good to Be Here. I first discovered Philip-Michael this past summer at Musikfest in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where his performance completely drew me in. I ended up buying the vinyl directly from him that day — and it’s been one of my favorite new additions to my collection.

Philip-Michael shares his musical journey with me, starting from his early days performing in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat alongside Donny Osmond, to developing his own soulful sound as a solo artist. He also talks about the surreal experience of having one of his songs played on SiriusXM, which caught the attention of Ellen DeGeneres and eventually led to him being featured on The Ellen Show.

We focus on three standout tracks from Good to Be Here: “Be My Own Man,” “Can’t Get Enough,” and “Something Bout You.” Each song showcases Philip-Michael’s knack for blending soul, blues, and emotion into something uniquely his own.

You can find Philip-Michael Scales on all major music platforms, and if you love that warm vinyl sound, Good to Be Here is absolutely worth adding to your turntable.

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On this re-released episode of Let’s Talk Vinyl, we sit down with legendary bassist Rick Price, whose musical journey spans some of the most iconic (and underrated) corners of rock history. From the edgy new wave pulse of The Brains ("Money Changes Everything") to the Southern rock swagger of The Georgia Satellites, and his current project Tangled Oaks, Rick shares stories from the road, the studio, and everywhere in between.

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Muscle of Love,” the seventh studio album by the American rock band Alice Cooper, was released in late 1973. Tragically, the band played its final concert a few months later. Notably, this album marked the end of Alice Cooper’s studio career as a band, spanning an impressive 52 years, until the release of their highly anticipated reunion album, “The Revenge of Alice Cooper,” in 2025.

Tune in to this episode with vinyl music at: https://www.mixcloud.com/letstalkvinyl/elton-john-too-low-for-zero/

In Episode 9 of Let’s Talk Vinyl, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of Elton John’s iconic album, Too Low for Zero. Released in 1983, this critically acclaimed album marked a significant comeback for Elton John, reuniting him with lyricist Bernie Taupin for all the tracks. We delve into the vibrant ‘80s pop-rock sound, unravel the unforgettable hits, and uncover the stories behind each track. Notably, Too Low for Zero was the first Elton John album to feature his classic touring band from the early ‘70s, including Davey Johnstone (guitar), Dee Murray (bass), and Nigel Olsson (drums), contributing to its dynamic sound.

We highlight three standout songs: “I’m Still Standing,” an anthem of resilience with an energetic music video shot in Cannes, France; “I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues,” featuring Stevie Wonder on harmonica, which became one of Elton’s most beloved ballads; and “Kiss the Bride,” showcasing catchy hooks and upbeat rhythms typical of the era. The album achieved multi-platinum status, earning Platinum certification in the United States and the United Kingdom, and peaking at No. 25 on the US Billboard 200 and No. 7 on the UK Albums Chart. Its commercial success played a crucial role in revitalizing Elton John’s career during the 1980s, with several hit singles dominating international charts.

Whether you’re a devoted Elton fan or just discovering his music, we’ll guide you through the album’s enduring legacy, its profound impact on popular culture, and the creative process behind these iconic tracks.