Pantheon - Podcasts for Music Lovers

History in Five Songs Episode 381: The Album After a Big Change

Pantheon - Podcasts for Music Lovers

Summary

Martin Popov explores the theme of musical evolution in rock bands following significant changes in their lineups or production styles. He highlights various examples where bands released albums that either struggled to match the excitement of their predecessors or refined their sound after a major transition.

Deep Purple's "Fireball" is discussed as a follow-up to the groundbreaking "In Rock," where the latter's explosive energy is replaced by a more subdued creativity. Similarly, AC/DC's "For Those About to Rock" is viewed as a softer continuation of the monumental "Back in Black." Popov also examines Judas Priest's "Point of Entry," which is perceived as a lighter version of "British Steel," and Uriah Heep's "Head First," which follows the more dynamic "Abominog" but lacks its edge.

Conversely, some bands experience a positive evolution after lineup changes. Thin Lizzy's "Wild One" is noted for its stronger sound following the introduction of new guitarists, while Megadeth's "Countdown to Extinction" is recognized for its accessible songwriting after the thrash-heavy "Rust in Peace." Popov concludes that comparing albums from the same band can reveal insights into their artistic journeys and adaptations to change.

Show Notes

In Episode 381 of History in Five Songs with Martin Popoff, Martin examines how legendary rock and metal bands responded to major lineup, stylistic, and production changes on the albums that followed the shakeups. He compares records by Deep Purple, David Lee Roth, and others to reveal when bands refined a new sound, played it safe, or reached new creative heights.

Deep Purple – “No One Came”

David Lee Roth – “Hina”

Thin Lizzy – “Wild One”

ZZ Top – “Planet of Women”

UFO – “Let It Roll”

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