Hit Rewind Podcast Network

Hit Rewind: Our Favorite Albums of 1998

Join hosts Michael and John on a nostalgic journey as they dive into the top albums of 1998. In this episode, they share their personal favorites, explore lesser-known gems, and discuss the diverse musical landscape of the late 90s. From the unique sounds of Mono's "Formica Blues" to the explosive energy of The Urge's "Master of Styles," they cover a wide range of genres and styles that defined the year.

Michael and John also reflect on the challenges of narrowing down their list to just 10 albums, as they revisit iconic releases from artists like Pearl Jam, Beastie Boys, and Jay-Z. Along the way, they explore the evolving sounds of hip-hop, alternative rock, and metal, while also highlighting some unexpected surprises and personal connections to the music.

Tune in for a lively discussion filled with musical insights, fond memories, and a celebration of the albums that made 1998 a standout year in music. Whether you're a fan of trip-hop, ska, or classic rock, this episode has something for everyone as they hit rewind and take a trip back to the sounds of the late 90s.

1998 in Comics: Marvel Knights, DC Shake-Ups, and Indie Gems

Welcome to Hit Rewind, where we dive into the comic book scene of 1998. Join hosts Michael Johns and his co-host as they explore a pivotal year for comics, marked by Marvel's bold moves, DC's seismic storylines, and notable indie releases.

The episode kicks off with a deep dive into Marvel's 1998, featuring the launch of Marvel Knights, a new imprint aimed at revitalizing lesser-known characters. The hosts discuss standout stories like Kevin Smith's "Guardian Devil" and the critically acclaimed "Black Panther" run by Christopher Priest. They also humorously dissect the infamous "Punisher as a hitman for heaven" storyline.

Shifting to DC, the hosts cover the groundbreaking "No Man's Land" storyline that reshaped Gotham City and its heroes. They also touch on the Elseworlds tale "JLA: The Nail" and the introduction of Young Justice, a fresh take on the Titans.

Indie comics and other highlights include the debut of Frank Miller's "300" from Dark Horse, the rise of webcomics with "Penny Arcade," and the influential "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" series. The episode wraps up with a nod to the critically acclaimed "Road to Perdition" graphic novel.

Tune in for a lively discussion full of insights and humor as the hosts reminisce about a transformative year in comics.

Hit Rewind: Video Games of 1998

Welcome to Hit Rewind, your go-to podcast for exploring the captivating world of 1998 video games. Join hosts Michael and John as they dive into the gaming landscape of the year, discussing both legacy and new titles that left their mark.

In this episode, discover how 1998 was a pivotal year in gaming history with milestones such as the rebranding of the ESRB's K-A rating to E for Everyone and the launch of the Game Boy Color. Explore the discontinuation of the Sega Saturn and the impact of arcade hits like Marvel vs. Capcom.

Listen as the hosts analyze iconic PC games including Baldur's Gate, StarCraft, and Half-Life, along with console classics like Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Pokémon Red and Blue. Witness the rise of interactive gaming with Dance Dance Revolution and the entrance of Bruce Willis in the gaming world with Apocalypse.

Join the conversation on mergers and acquisitions that reshaped the industry, including Crystal Dynamics' integration into Eidos and the partnership between Square and EA. This episode is packed with insights, nostalgia, and a dash of humor as we take you on a journey back to 1998.

Hit Rewind: Our Favorite Stand-Up Comedians of the 80s & 90s

In this episode of Music. Rewind, hosts Tony and Michael delve into the world of stand-up comedy, sharing their favorite comedians of all time. From the mainstream giants to the alt comics who broke through in the 80s, they cover a wide array of comedic talent and styles.

The hosts reminisce about the golden era of stand-up comedy, when late-night talk shows and cable networks like A&E and Comedy Central showcased the best in the business. They discuss the impact of legendary comedians such as George Carlin, Bill Cosby, and Steve Martin, and how they transformed the comedy landscape.

They also explore the rise of alt comedy in the 90s with figures like Patton Oswalt, David Cross, and Mitch Hedberg, who brought a fresh, unique perspective to the stage. The episode highlights the evolution of these comedians and their continued influence on the comedy world.

Tony and Michael also share personal anecdotes and experiences, including the memorable moment when Michael's father fell asleep during a George Carlin show. They discuss the different styles of comedy, from observational humor to storytelling, and how each comedian brings their own flavor to the stage.

Whether you're a comedy connoisseur or just a casual fan, this episode is packed with laughs and insights into the world of stand-up comedy. Tune in to discover which comedians made the cut and why they hold a special place in the hearts of the hosts.

Hit Rewind: Valley of the Dolls, Beyond the Valley, Midnight Cowboy & The Wild Bunch

Welcome to Hit Rewind! In this episode, Michael and Kersey take a trip back to 1968 to explore how cinema began pushing boundaries. The year saw the emergence of the R and X ratings, reflecting a shift towards more mature themes.

First on the list is Valley of the Dolls, a melodrama about three women navigating the dark side of Hollywood. Despite its reputation for being trashy, it's a fascinating look at the industry's underbelly, with standout performances, especially from Patty Duke.

The conversation then shifts to Beyond the Valley of the Dolls, a wild, bizarre follow-up that blends comedy, musical acts, and surrealism. Directed by Russ Meyer and co-written by Roger Ebert, this film is a cult classic that defies conventional storytelling.

Next up is Midnight Cowboy, a groundbreaking film that delves into the gritty life of a wannabe male prostitute in New York City. With stellar performances by Jon Voight and Dustin Hoffman, this movie is a masterpiece that stands the test of time.

Finally, they discuss The Wild Bunch, a film that redefined action and Western genres with its raw, unfiltered portrayal of violence and camaraderie. Directed by Sam Peckinpah, it's a gritty tale of outlaws facing the end of their era.

Join us as we explore these iconic films and their impact on the world of cinema. Enjoy the journey through the transformative year of 1968!

The Perfect Concert Playlist with Huey Lewis, Eddie Money, and J Giles Band

Welcome to another electrifying episode of Hit Rewind! Join hosts Michael and Ron as they dive into a musical fantasy: crafting the perfect concert playlist featuring Huey Lewis, Eddie Money, and J Giles Band. With unlimited resources and a time machine, they bring these legendary artists together for one unforgettable night.

Discover the ideal setlist for each band, starting with J Giles Band's explosive opener and winding down with Huey Lewis's nostalgic hits. From personal concert experiences to surprising deep cuts, this episode is a must-listen for any classic rock aficionado. Tune in and relive the magic of these iconic musicians!

We Go The Beat- When a Stranger Calls Double Feature

Welcome to another episode of "We've Got the Beat." Join hosts Michael and Mindy as they dive into the psychological depths of horror films, exploring the trauma and fear that drive the genre. This episode focuses on the classic horror movies "When a Stranger Calls" and its sequel, analyzing their portrayal of teenage trauma and its long-lasting repercussions.

Michael and Mindy discuss the impact of low-budget filmmaking on the horror genre, comparing the raw fear elicited by early slasher films to the polished, yet less terrifying, remakes of the 2000s. They highlight the performances of actors like Carol Kane and Jill Schoelen, emphasizing how their portrayals add depth and realism to the narrative.

From urban legends and psychological thrillers to the evolution of horror tropes, this episode delves into what makes these films enduringly terrifying. Whether you're a seasoned horror aficionado or a casual viewer, this discussion promises to offer new insights into the art of scaring audiences.

The Perfect Concert Playlist: Eddie Rabbit, Kenny Rogers, and Dolly Parton

Hey everybody, welcome to the Perfect Concert Playlist. Join Michael and Ron as they dive into the world of early 80s country music, exploring the iconic sounds and unforgettable hits of Eddie Rabbit, Kenny Rogers, and Dolly Parton.

In this episode, Ron takes the lead in curating a playlist that showcases the best of country music from the early 80s. From Eddie Rabbit's crossover appeal with hits like "I Love a Rainy Night" to Kenny Rogers' timeless classics like "The Gambler" and Dolly Parton's sassy and powerful anthems, this episode promises a nostalgic journey through a golden era of country music.

Discover the stories behind the songs, the artists' peak eras, and the unique sounds that defined early 80s country. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the genre, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the rich history and vibrant melodies of country music.

So, tune in, relax, and let Michael and Ron guide you through the perfect concert playlist of early 80s country hits. Enjoy!

Hit Rewind- Copland, The Game, Conspiracy Theory, Operation Condor & Alien: Resurrection

Welcome to another episode of Hit Rewind! Today, we're diving into the films of 1997, a year often overlooked despite its cinematic gems. With John joining in place of Jacob, we explore the diverse range of movies that made 1997 unique. While blockbuster hits like "Men in Black" and "Face/Off" dominate the nostalgic conversation, we also shine a light on lesser-known yet thoroughly enjoyable films.

In this episode, we discuss "Copland," a film that, despite its stellar cast and critical acclaim, seems to have lost some of its initial impact over time. We delve into the performances, particularly Sylvester Stallone's standout role, and the intricate character dynamics that make this movie a must-watch.

Next, we analyze David Fincher's "The Game," a tightly wound thriller that keeps you in a constant state of paranoia. We reflect on Michael Douglas's compelling performance and the film's intricate plot twists that keep you guessing until the very end.

We also examine "Conspiracy Theory," a film that blends intense psychological thriller elements with moments of levity. Mel Gibson's portrayal of a paranoid conspiracy theorist is both captivating and unsettling, reflecting the actor's unique ability to balance charm with vulnerability.

Our journey continues with "Operation Condor," a Jackie Chan classic filled with breathtaking stunts and comedic action sequences. We discuss the film's place within Chan's filmography and its enduring appeal.

Finally, we revisit "Alien Resurrection," the much-maligned entry in the Alien franchise. We explore the film's strengths and weaknesses, from its unique visual style to its controversial narrative choices.

Join us as we celebrate the highs and lows of 1997's cinematic offerings and look forward to our next exploration of 1998's films.

Hit Rewind-Titanic, The Wrong Guy, Nothing to Lose, Switchback & Air Force One

Join Michael and Jacob as they wrap up their journey through the films of 1997. This episode dives deep into some of the year's most iconic movies, including a detailed discussion on the cultural phenomenon Titanic. They examine its overwhelming success and the lasting impact it had on Hollywood.

The duo also highlights the hilarious yet underrated gem The Wrong Guy, starring Dave Foley, and explores the unique buddy comedy Nothing to Lose with Martin Lawrence and Tim Robbins. They delve into the intense thriller Switchback, featuring standout performances by Jared Leto and Danny Glover.

Finally, they finish strong with a discussion on the patriotic action thriller Air Force One, starring Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman. This episode is filled with nostalgia, insightful commentary, and plenty of laughs as Michael and Jacob reminisce about a memorable year in film.