Show Notes
This week on Dead Wax, Jack and Ryan sit down with Dan Wilson, Grammy-winning songwriter and frontman of Semisonic. Dan discusses his fascination with imperfect lyrics—the ones that stay in, reveal the writer’s hand, and make a song uniquely human. He explores the beauty in flaws through the work of Leonard Cohen, Kacey Musgraves, Smokey Robinson, Phoebe Bridgers, and Prince. In the extended Patreon episode, Dan dives deeper into the lyrical worlds of Joni Mitchell, Bon Iver, Frank Ocean, and Ben Folds.
More from Dead Wax
Legendary session bassist Bob Glaub joins DeadWax to break down the records that shaped his playing — from Elvis and Little Richard to The Beatles and beyond. With Ryan Lerman and guest co-host Kane Ritchotte, the episode dives into early rock & roll, groove, feel, and the subtle rhythmic choices that define great bass lines. A masterclass in musical history, pocket, and storytelling from one of the greats
Larry Goldings is back on the podcast, this time to discuss some of the best pop song modulations! Larry joins Ryan and Kane as he breaks down legendary modulations from Chicago to Paul Simon, playing through the harmony and unpacking why these moments hit so hard. It’s equal parts theory lesson and fan appreciation, with jaw-dropping examples performed live at the keys. Stick around for a masterclass in how great songs bend tonality without breaking the groove.
This week on DeadWax, Ryan and Kane are joined by arranger, composer, and violinist Rob Moose. Rob breaks down some of his favorite string arrangements of all time, unpacking how orchestration shapes emotion, groove, and storytelling in recorded music. From subtle harmonic tension to bold, unforgettable entrances, this episode is a deep dive into why great string writing disappears into the song…and why that’s exactly the point.
Today on DeadWax we have TWO special guests: Larry Goldings and Bob Glaub. These talented gentlemen prepared songs for one another - a little musical show & tell if you will!
Mike Andrews (aka Elgin Park) joins DeadWax for a deep, joyful hang that moves from Neil Young’s “The Last Trip to Tulsa” into the absurd brilliance of Walk Hard’s “Black Sheep,” which Mike composed. Along the way, they nerd out on Neil’s “wandering” harmony, how a song can feel cinematic without trying to be, and why you sometimes have to stop chasing structure and just enjoy the ride. Mike also tells the winding origin story of his path from bands and songwriting to scoring. They touch on Freaks and Geeks, Donnie Darko, and the real-world chaos of making music for film. The conversation keeps circling back to honesty: writing a ton, trusting your instincts, and finding “you” only in hindsight.