Episodes

  • MMT50 - 207

    MMT50 - 207
    Nov 11 2024

    MMT50 - 208: The Pavement Top 50 Countdown

    In this episode of Meeting Malkmus: A Pavement Podcast, jD and guest Andy from Birmingham dive into song #7 on the Pavement countdown. They explore SMs lyrics, Pavement’s raw indie sound, and Malkmus’s distinctive voice that continues to captivate fans. Join the discussion as they look back at Pavement’s legacy and reflect on the unique, indie charm that defines the band.

    Episode Highlights:.

    • Pavement’s Influence on Indie Rock – Andy shares his experiences discovering Pavement in the 90s and the impact of Malkmus’s American accent on British fans.

    • Pavement Live – Recalling the early 90s live performance in Birmingham where Pavement opened for Sonic Youth.

    • Birmingham’s Indie Scene – Andy describes his time growing up in Birmingham’s vibrant indie rock scene, from record shops to mosh pits.

    • Bonus – A discussion on Watery, Domestic, the EP Andy only recently discovered, and why it’s become a treasured addition to his collection.

    About the Pavement Top 50 Countdown:

    Every week, jD counts down the 50 greatest Pavement tracks as voted by fans. Listen as jD and guests break down each track, sharing personal stories, song insights, and Pavement memories. Episodes release weekly, leading up to the #1 track selected by fans.

    Connect with Us:

    • Email: jd.meetingmalkmus@gmail.com

    • Website: dewvre.com/meetingmalkmus

    • Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/meetingmalkmus

    • Socials: @meetingmalkmus on all platforms

    Thanks for tuning in to Meeting Malkmus. Don’t miss next week’s episode as we reveal song #6 and edge closer to the top of the countdown!



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/meeting-malkmus-a-pavement-podcast/exclusive-content

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    31 mins
  • MMT50 - 208

    MMT50 - 208
    Nov 4 2024

    MMT50 - 208: The Pavement Top 50 Countdown

    In this episode of Meeting Malkmus: A Pavement Podcast, jD Dew is joined by Pavement superfan Patrice from Richmond as they dive into song #8 on the countdown. Together, they unpack the nostalgia, indie rock essence, and lyrical introspection that makes Pavement such a beloved bandk. From origin stories to unforgettable live performances, this episode is a heartfelt exploration of Pavement’s legacy.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Pavement’s Indie Rock Impact – Discussing Stephen Malkmus’s songwriting style and the band’s journey from Slanted and Enchanted to Terror Twilight.

    • Fan Origin Stories – Patrice shares her Pavement journey, from her early days with Last.FM to traveling internationally for Pavement shows.

    • Live Show Memories – Reliving standout moments from Pavement’s 2022 tour, including the Central Park and Iceland residencies.

    • Pavement Cover Bands and Indie Scene Insights – A deep dive into the 90s revival through cover bands, concert costs, and more.

    About the Pavement Top 50 Countdown:

    Each week, jD counts down the essential Pavement tracks as chosen by fans. Don’t miss the final reveal of the Top 50 songs and insider stories about Stephen Malkmus and the band’s journey through the indie rock scene. Episodes drop every week, leading up to the top track chosen by listeners.

    Connect with Us:

    • Email: jd.meetingmalkmus@gmail.com

    • Website: dewvre.com/meetingmalkmus

    • Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/meetingmalkmus

    • Socials: @meetingmalkmus on all platforms

    Thanks for tuning in to Meeting Malkmus. Subscribe to stay on the journey as we continue the countdown of Pavement’s most memorable tracks!



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/meeting-malkmus-a-pavement-podcast/exclusive-content

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    31 mins
  • MMT50 - 209

    MMT50 - 209
    Oct 28 2024

    MMT50 - 209

    In this episode of Meeting Malkmus, we’re diving into the Top 50 Countdown of Pavement’s most essential tracks with our special guest, Robbie from Grimsby! Join host JD as they discuss some of Pavement’s most iconic songs, explore the evolution of the band’s sound, and reminisce about personal stories of discovering Pavement.

    Robbie shares his Pavement origin story—from being introduced to the seminal indie rock band during his college years to falling in love with albums like Crooked Rain and Wowie Zowie. Together, they discuss why albums like Bright in the Corners may take time to appreciate and how the narrative around these classic records has evolved.

    Key Segments:

    • [1:57] – Robbie’s Pavement Origin Story: Discover how Robbie from Grimsby found Pavement during the Twilight era and why Crooked Rain became his favorite.

    • [4:31] – The Slow Burn of Bright in the Corners: Robbie reflects on how this album grew on him over time, and why Wowie Zowie clicked instantly.

    • [7:28] – Ranking Albums: Robbie reveals his current go-to Pavement album, why Slanted and Enchanted holds a special place and the emotional connection that certain albums carry.

    • [23:43] – Free Association in Pavement Lyrics: Robbie dissects the free-associative lyrics of Pavement, sharing his theories on Stephen Malkmus’s writing process.

    Join us as we geek out on Pavement songs, dissect indie rock history, and debate the Top 50 Pavement Countdown. Is your favorite track ranked where it should be? Find out as JD and Robbie hash it out!

    Stay Connected with Meeting Malkmus:

    • Twitter: @meetingmalkmus

    • Facebook: facebook.com/groups/meetingmalkmus

    • Website: dewvre.com/meetingmalkmus

    • Email: jd.meetingmalkmus@gmail.com

    Don’t forget to tune in next week as we continue the Top 50 Countdown of the greatest Pavement tracks, chosen by you!

    This episode was a fun journey through the seminal indie rock band’s catalog. If you’re a diehard Pavement fan, this episode is a must-listen!



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/meeting-malkmus-a-pavement-podcast/exclusive-content

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    29 mins
  • MMT50 - 210

    MMT50 - 210
    Oct 21 2024
    Welcome to another episode of Meeting Malkmus, where we’re counting down the Top 50 Pavement songs as voted by fans. This week, we dive into song #10 on the list, the fan-favorite “Elevate Me Later” from Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain. Join host jD and special guest Jen Echo as they reminisce about the band’s seminal moments, tour stories, and the unique relationship fans have with Pavement’s music.From Pavement’s early days and Slanted and Enchanted to their cult status in 90s alternative music, this episode is filled with personal fan anecdotes, live concert memories, and a deep dive into why this indie rock band still resonates decades later. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the band, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on Pavement’s iconic songs.Episode Highlights: • [00:05] – Introduction to the Pavement Top 50 Countdown: Recap of the journey so far, and the importance of “Elevate Me Later” in the Pavement discography. • [01:55] – Jen Echo shares her Pavement origin story and how she first discovered the band while working at an independent record store in the 90s. • [03:22] – Discussing the mystery behind Pavement’s cryptic early years and the appeal of albums like Slanted and Enchanted. • [04:41] – The story of how Pavement built their underground reputation, including details from their early singles and why they connected with indie rock fans before mainstream success. • [05:56] – Jen recounts her experience seeing Pavement live in Columbus, Ohio, in 1992, during the Slanted and Enchanted tour. • [07:24] – Fan stories from Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain tour stops, including surreal concert experiences and a backstage moment with Stephen Malkmus. • [09:06] – The history of Pavement’s live performances and how the band evolved over the years, with a focus on the energy of early concerts. • [10:36] – Jen recalls attending a 1994 concert where fans encountered the band before the show, marking one of her earliest in-person experiences with the group. • [13:09] – The iconic moment when Pavement played an entire set of chronological songs from their discography in a rare Milwaukee show, surprising even their most dedicated fans. • [16:13] – What Pavement meant to the indie rock scene, with a focus on their DIY ethos and how their music resonated with both critics and underground fans. • [20:10] – Jen’s personal anecdotes about being one of the few female superfans during Pavement’s early years and her unique backstage experiences with the band. • [22:32] – The emotional weight of Pavement’s 1999 shows, leading up to their first breakup, and how fans, including Jen, coped with the band’s hiatus. • [23:00] – Discussion on how Pavement’s 2010 reunion tour brought their music to a new generation of listeners and re-energized their fanbase. • [25:35] – jD and Jen explore the deep-cut tracks from Slanted and Enchanted and Watery, Domestic, and how these B-sides influenced Pavement’s lasting legacy. • [29:06] – Final thoughts on the enduring popularity of “Elevate Me Later” and why it deserved its place in the Top 10. • [30:00] – Reflections on Pavement’s role in the 90s alternative music scene, including their influence on indie bands that followed.Key Topics Covered: • Pavement songs: Breaking down “Elevate Me Later” and why it stands out in the Top 50 Pavement countdown. • Indie rock culture: How Pavement helped define the 90s alternative music scene. • Behind-the-scenes stories from Pavement’s tours and their connection with superfans. • Stephen Malkmus and Scott Kannberg (Spiral Stairs): Personal fan interactions with these key members of the band. • Nostalgic fan anecdotes about catching Pavement at pivotal moments during the Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain and Slanted and Enchanted tours.Follow and Join the Conversation: • Instagram & Twitter: @meetingmalkmus • Facebook: facebook.com/groups/meetingmalkmus • Website: www.dewvre.com/meetingmalkmusBe sure to connect with other Pavement fans, share your favorite tracks, and stay updated on future episodes of the countdown! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/meeting-malkmus-a-pavement-podcast/exclusive-contentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    1 hr and 36 mins
  • MMT50 - RT2

    MMT50 - RT2
    Oct 18 2024

    MMT50 - RT2

    In this episode of Meeting Malkmus, JD hosts a roundtable discussion with Pavement superfans as they break down the Pavement Top 50 countdown. From their live experiences to deep dives into SM's lyrical genius, join the conversation on Pavement‘s top songs and memories from the band’s iconic albums like Wowie Zowie, Crooked Rain Crooked Rain, and Terror Twilight.

    Time Stamps & Highlights:

    • [0:15] JD introduces the roundtable, where the group will discuss Pavement’s Top 50 countdown from songs 50 through 11.

    • [0:29] Jimmy shares his excitement about scoring tickets to Pavement Live in New York and what he expects from the show.

    • [4:03] Highlight: Jimmy talks about his excitement for “Give It a Day” making the list, describing it as one of his favorites in the 30s.

    • [4:44] Chris celebrates Blue Hawaiian making the top 50, despite its unusual sound compared to other Pavement songs.

    • [7:00] Boston Russ discusses his love for “Motion Suggests” and his memorable experience seeing Pavement play it live.

    • [8:08] JD and the group reflect on the Watery Domestic EP and how songs like Greenlander would have been even better if extended into a 10-inch record.

    • [10:28] Discussion: The group digs into the appeal of Pavement’s lesser-known tracks like Texas Never Whispers and Linden Lions.

    • [12:46] Chris critiques Box Elder and Easily Fooled for being too simplistic compared to Pavement’s more evolved songs.

    • [13:07] Highlight: The group discusses Half a Canyon and how it fared on other Pavement podcasts.

    • [14:29] Nostalgia: The group reminisces about seeing Pavement live and how their songs evolved during their 2022 tour.

    • [18:33] Boston Russ shares a story about hearing The Hex in Iceland, creating a magical fan moment.

    • [25:15] Chris reflects on discovering Pavement in 2004 and wonders how fan age demographics affect the Pavement Top 50 list.

    • [27:42] Discussion: The evolution of Pavement from their early lo-fi tracks like Slay Tracks to their more produced albums like Terror Twilight.

    • [32:24] The group speculates which Pavement songs will make the top 10.

    • [35:16] The impact of Crooked Rain Crooked Rain and tracks like Range Life and Gold Soundz in Pavement’s legacy.

    • [39:04] Boston Russ gives a shoutout to his friend Sasha, who finally heard AT&T live after multiple attempts.

    • [45:25] Final roundtable: Everyone guesses what they think will be the number one Pavement song in the Top 50 Countdown.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Fans of Pavement are deeply passionate about their favorite songs, and discussions like these reveal how eclectic the band’s music truly is.

    • The band’s diverse sound across albums like Wowie Zowie, Slanted and Enchanted, and Crooked Rain Crooked Rain has created lasting memories for fans.

    Connect with Us:

    • Twitter & Instagram: @meetingmalkmus

    • Facebook: Meeting Malkmus Facebook Group

    • Website: Meeting Malkmus on Dewvre

    Join the conversation, share your favorite Pavement memories, and stay tuned for the next episode of Meeting Malkmus!




    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/meeting-malkmus-a-pavement-podcast/exclusive-content

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    51 mins
  • MMT50 - 211

    MMT50 - 211
    Oct 14 2024

    MMT50 - 211

    In this week’s episode of Pavement Top 50 Countdown, host jD is joined by Pavement superfan Martel for a deep dive into one of the top tracks in the band’s catalog as the countdown continues to edge closer to the Top 10.

    Martel shares his Pavement origin story, recalling the magic of discovering the band back in 1994 when he first heard the Crooked Rain album. From teenage weekends at record shops to hearing those first iconic notes, Martel reflects on the life-changing moment when he became hooked on Pavement. He also recounts memories of the band’s live performances, from major festivals like Reading to more intimate shows, including their legendary 1999 gig in Hull.

    jD and Martel discuss the unique melodic style and abstract lyrics of the featured track, diving into the mysteriousness and artistic creativity that defines Stephen Malkmus’s songwriting. They explore how Pavement’s music, much like the band itself, holds layers of meaning that reveal themselves over time. The two also touch on Pavement’s other standout albums, including Slanted and Enchanted, Wowie Zowie, and Watery Domestic, appreciating how the band’s work continues to stand the test of time.

    Listeners will enjoy thoughtful conversations about the band’s place in 90s alternative music, the allure of their cryptic album artwork, and the continued fan devotion seen during the band’s reunion tour.

    Tune in to hear the next track on the countdown and join jD and Martel as they celebrate the legacy of Pavement, one essential song at a time.

    Key Topics:

    • [00:52] Martel’s first encounter with Pavement’s music through Crooked Rain

    • [02:20] Pavement’s distinctive sound, songwriting, and cryptic lyrics

    • [05:17] Iconic live performances from Reading Festival to their intimate 1999 Hull gig

    • [06:23] The enduring legacy of albums like Slanted and Enchanted and Wowie Zowie

    • [17:11] The excitement around Pavement’s reunion tour and hopes for future music from Stephen Malkmus

    Don’t miss the countdown as we get closer to unveiling the Top 10 tracks!

    Connect with Us:

    Follow the podcast on social media and stay up to date:

    • Instagram and Twitter: @meetingmalkmus

    • Facebook: facebook.com/groups/meetingmalkmus

    Join the conversation, share your thoughts on Pavement’s music, and let us know where your favorite tracks land on the countdown!



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/meeting-malkmus-a-pavement-podcast/exclusive-content

    Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

    Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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    32 mins
  • MMT50 - 212

    MMT50 - 212
    Oct 7 2024
    Yes, I have incorporated all the keywords into the show notes. Here is the updated version with all the keywords included:---**Show Notes: MMT50 - 212**Hey there, Pavement aficionados! jD is back with another episode of our Top 50 Countdown on the *Meeting Malkmus* podcast, exploring the essential tracks by the seminal indie rock band, **Pavement**. This week, we're diving into track number 12 on the countdown.Joining jD is Pavement superfan **Tim from Portland**, and trust us, you don't want to miss this one. It's a rollercoaster ride through **'90s indie rock** nostalgia, **Pavement concert stories**, and a heartfelt plea to support live music.---**Episode Highlights:****[0:00] Introduction and Tim's Pavement Origin Story**- **Discovering Pavement through the College Music Journal:** - Tim shares how he first stumbled upon Pavement in the summer of '94 through the *College Music Journal*, a pivotal moment in his journey into **'90s indie rock**. - *"Yeah, I ran down to Tower Records in San Diego and got the CD along with a few other ones... been cranking it ever since."*- **First Impressions of 'Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain':** - His immediate obsession after purchasing Pavement's seminal album, *Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain*. - *"Right out of the gate, this album was different, and I applauded that."***[1:57] Early Live Shows and Military Gear Coincidence**- **First Pavement Concert Experience in the San Diego Music Scene:** - Tim talks about seeing Pavement live for the first time in January '96 at Montezuma Hall, San Diego State University—a highlight in his **Pavement concert memories**. - **Silkworm as the Opening Act:** - The concert featured **Silkworm** as the opening act, adding to the night's **indie music nostalgia**. - *"We decided to dress up... everyone put on some sort of military garb."*- **Serendipitous Moment with the Band:** - The hilarious coincidence of the band also wearing military attire, showcasing the quirky connection between Pavement and their fans. - *"We all looked at them and then at each other and just started laughing."***[4:13] Following the Band and Memorable Performances**- **Photographing Pavement at Bimbo's 365 Club:** - Tim recalls capturing the band during a show at **Bimbo's 365 Club in San Francisco**, adding to his collection of **Pavement fan experiences**. - *"I have some great shots from there... there was definitely, you know, kind of a whole San Francisco vibe going on."*- **Tibetan Freedom Concert Adventure [7:11]:** - Get the lowdown on Tim's experience at the massive **Tibetan Freedom Concert** in San Francisco, featuring a lineup that included **Sonic Youth** and cemented **Pavement's influence on indie rock**. - *"There were, I think, like a hundred thousand people there... It was a total bottleneck of a festival."***[9:05] Unforgettable Gigs and Onstage Antics**- **Mark Ibold's Onstage Incident:** - Hear about bassist **Mark Ibold's** mysterious onstage moment in Pomona, one of the more intriguing **Pavement concert stories**. - *"He couldn't play; he couldn't finish a song... the show ended shortly after that."*- **Bob Nastanovich's Live Performances:** - Discussing **Bob Nastanovich's** energetic contributions during live shows, highlighting the band's dynamic stage presence.**[11:01] Accidental HBO Appearance**- **HBO Reverb Special Featuring Pavement:** - Learn how Tim unknowingly became part of the **HBO Reverb Pavement** special during a gig at Cane's in San Diego, a unique highlight in his **Pavement concert memories**. - *"We didn't even know that was happening... Spiral was like, 'Oh, they're doing some fucking HBO show.' He didn't seem happy about it."***[12:20] Deep Dive into Track #12**- **Why Track #12 Matters in Pavement's Discography:** - Tim breaks down why this song is in his personal top five, offering insightful **Pavement song analysis**. - *"This song, you know, it's awesome. It's got rockets; it goes."*- **Personal Connection and Indie Music Nostalgia:** - How the song's themes resonate with Tim's own travels and experiences across California, enhancing his **indie music nostalgia**. - *"I know all the places it talks about... Hearing this the first times, we were just like, 'Who are these guys? What are they doing singing about our places?'"*- **The Quintessential Pavement Vibe:** - Discussing how Pavement's songs often mean everything and nothing all at once, reflecting their unique place in **alternative rock**. - *"It has kind of a theme but is totally non sequitur at the same time—it's right up my alley. It's cool."***[18:49] The Pavement Ethos and Live Music Today**- **Stephen Malkmus and the Band's Stance on Fame:** - Reflect on **Pavement's** unique approach to art over commercial success, and how **Stephen Malkmus** embodies this ethos. - *"They lean more art rather than commercialized... They always look painfully uncomfortable."*- **Memorable 2010 Reunion and 2022 LA Show:** - Tim and ...
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    35 mins
  • MMT50 - 213

    MMT50 - 213
    Oct 1 2024
    This week jD welcomes Ralph to the pod to discuss his Pavement origin story and to reveal song number 13!Transcript:Track 2:[0:00] Previously on the Pavement Top 50. This week, we're on the horn with AT&T. How are you feeling about song number 14, Rachel, from Portland? I love AT&T. The song is super fun. I really love the way in which, like, the verses go into this, the, you know, when he goes into the, like, whatever, whatever, and there's a kind of screaming thing in it. And it almost feels like the whole song could be complete. And then it starts again with the second verse, which I really love. It takes you on a really cool journey. And I also love, to me, there's so much meaning in it. And there's also so much that I don't understand and feels a little bit nonsensical to me. Hey, this is Westy from the Rock and Roll Band Pavement.Track 3:[0:54] And you're listening to The Countdown. hey it's jd here back for another episode of our top 50 countdown for seminal indie rock band pavement week over week we're going to count down the 50 essential pavement tracks that you selected with your very own top 20 ballots i then tabulated the results using an abacus and two marshmallows shaped like mushrooms also they were actual mushrooms how will your favorite song fare air in the rankings? Well, you'll need to tune in to find out. So there's that. This week, I'm joined by pavement superfan Ralph from Lincolnshire. Dude, thanks for taking some time to do this with me. How the fuck are you? Oh, I'm good. It's great to be here. It's great to have you. It's a dream. Oh, you got to dream bigger, baby. You got to dream bigger. There's nothing bigger than meeting mammoths.Track 3:[1:54] Well, let's get right into it. Let's hear about your pavement origin story. Okay. okay so uh well so so my dad is really into music he has like a record shop and everything and he grew up in the 90s so he loves it so i i grew up most of my life you know on like various tapes and stuff just hearing two pavement songs i heard stereo and range life a lot so they're like burnt into my brain i only really got uh you know explored further than those two in uh i think it was like october november 2022 so not very long ago okay yeah ever since then it's been you know a burning intensity of pavement wow a burning intensity yeah so what is your what is your go-to at this point like what record do you go to or how many times has that changed what order did you go through the records in talk to me baby so i mean i so i started out uh when i very first died i listened to um quarantine the past the best oh that's a that's a smart move just to discover them you know and uh so i think the first one that i really liked uh other than those two was um unseen power of the picket fence which is a weird choice because it was i don't know why they put on the best of i'm really glad they did.Track 3:[3:20] Tough to get your, it was sort of tough to get your hands on. Yeah. Because Quarantine of the Past was released on vinyl. So, you know, sometimes they throw us a bone that way, right? Yeah, definitely. Yeah, they're good to us. But I would say, I think my first album that I really loved was Bright in the Corners. And then I just very slowly discovered all of them kind of one by one. All right, talk to, I'm a big Bright in the Corners fan. So talk to me about your experience with Bright in the Corners. Oh, it's just, I think it just flows so well. I think that's my favorite thing about it. Compared to all the other albums, it just flows beautifully song into song. And I really like that there's two Spiral songs, you know, Love Spiral there. And I think as well, just having the two openers and then collide together and then kind of flow into all these kind of more mellow tracks really works. I really like that, I think. What's your favorite track on that record? Okay, do you have one? Ooh, my favorite. I think I'm going to have to go stereo. Yeah, I'm going to say stereo, but I really like Starlings of the Slipstream. I guess stereo, because you've got all that indoctrination. Inculcation. Oh, that's a good one. Yes, yes. So, yeah.Track 3:[4:43] Gosh where do we go next so you started creeping into the next records do you what was your next favorite what was the next one that you listened to that sort of just went what in the fuck am i listening to i don't know but i love it yeah i think uh i think probably wowie zowie i think yeah because yeah that makes sense just it's just amazing i think it really fits it's almost.Track 3:[5:09] Cliche to say but it really fits the ethos of pavement doesn't it because they're all just scattered everywhere and it doesn't make any sense but it's just beautiful yeah there's some gorgeous songs on that record mother to a sister of thought yeah love it love it although single choice maybe not the best single choice for commercial purpose i suppose yeah i suppose well said good point my dad maintains that um kennel district ...
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    22 mins