🎙️ Songs That Don’t Suck: Memory, Music, and the Coming Gen X Retirement Home
Welcome, friends, to Episode 91 of Songs That Don’t Suck, where Mark Bradbourne continues his mission to share music that matters. This week’s show is a heartfelt hybrid: one part science-backed reflection on how music impacts memory (especially in dementia care), and one part full-throttle new music showcase.
If you’ve ever cried at a song, shared a mixtape with someone you loved, or cranked Smells Like Teen Spirit in your car with the windows down—this one’s for you.
🧠Music and Memory: A Secret Weapon in Dementia Care
While visiting his parents at their senior living community, Mark noticed how music piped through the hallways—mostly jazz standards and big band favorites—triggered something deeper. For some residents, it sparked conversation. For others, confusion. But behind it all is real science:
- 🎵 Music therapy is proven to regulate emotions and trigger memories, especially for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
- 🧠Neural networks tied to music tend to survive longer than those for speech or even personal identity.
- đź’¬ Residents may not remember names, but they remember lyrics.
“Music is a universal language. It touches us all.”
And Mark brings it home, sharing his personal connection—two family members are currently battling forms of memory loss. The segment turns hopeful and hilarious as he imagines the future of Gen X senior living:
- 🎮 Gaming lounges with OG Nintendos and D&D campaigns
- 🎸 Hallway soundtracks of Pearl Jam and Poison
- 🚌 Shuttles running after 6 PM for concert nights
- 💀 Confusion still caused by “Yellow Ledbetter” lyrics
🎶 Songs That Absolutely Don’t Suck This Week
From indie pop to hometown riot grrrl vibes to a 10-minute prog-rock epic, this lineup hits hard—and emotionally.
1. Vienna Vienna – “Sex, Drugs, Whatever”
🎹 80s Synth Rock | Hook-Driven | The Killers Vibes
This track kicks off the playlist with a bang—glossy production, a massive hook, and a sonic structure that begins and ends in dreamy synths. Think Neon Trees meets Hot Fuss-era Killers.
🎧 Highlight: The mirrored intro/outro structure is surprisingly satisfying.
2. Bitch Seat – “Evil”
🎤 Indie Grunge | Riot Grrrl Revival | Cleveland Proud
A local gem! This track brings haunting vocals, gritty guitars, and emotional weight reminiscent of Liz Phair and Sleater-Kinney. Atmospheric keys add surprising texture.
🎧 Why it works: It’s moody, raw, and brilliantly layered—modern riot girl redefined.
3. The Rooks – “Renegade”
🎸 Garage Rock | Anthemic Chorus | Hook City
Making their second appearance (Ep. 70 fans will remember “Lay Me Down”), The Rooks are back with another catchy-as-hell banger. A raspy vocal, pre-chorus that launches you into the hook, and classic rock sensibilities shine here.
🎧 Just press play: It’s that accessible, that catchy, and that good.
4. Liquid Mike – “Crop Circles”
🎧 Lo-Fi Alt Rock | Fountains of Wayne Energy | Michigan Made
A callback to Ep. 55’s “Town Ease,” this one brings quirky guitar textures and subtle out-of-tune flourishes that add flavor. Headphones recommended to catch the clever production details.
🎧 Fountains of Wayne fans: This one’s for you. Power pop perfection.
5. Dream Theater – “Night Terror”
🔥 Progressive Metal | 10-Minute Epic | Portnoy Returns
The long-awaited return of Mike Portnoy on drums! “Night Terror” is classic Dream Theater: intricate, thematic, and powerful. Hints of their Awake era are strong, with tight grooves and jaw-dropping interludes.
🎧 Mark’s verdict: Portnoy = the band’s soul. LaBrie sounds dialed-in. Prog nerds rejoice.
đź’¬ Final Reflection: “Maybe I Just Want to Be Confused by Yellow Ledbetter”
This episode is a reminder of why music matters—why we seek it, why we share it, and why it stays with us. Whether you’re caring for a loved one, prepping your Gen X retirement home bingo playlist, or just looking for songs that don’tsuck, you’re in the right place.
📸 …and I quote…
❝ I want to be confused by Yellow Ledbetter’s lyrics in my golden years the same way I am today. ❞
— Mark Bradbourne, Songs That Don’t Suck 🧓🎸
