Episode Recaps

In Episode 44 of Songs That Don’t Suck, host Mark reflects on musical paralysis, generational listening habits, and why Gen X still craves sonic discovery. Plus: a Halloween-perfect cover, Portnoy’s Dream Theater return, and four fresh tracks from Green Day, Talk, Amigo the Devil, and Lawrence.

In Episode 43 of Songs That Don’t Suck, we get nerdy with science-backed proof that modern music kinda does suck. Dive into data-driven breakdowns, hear about Slamming Gladys’ forgotten gem, and discover 4 new tracks worth your time—even in a slow music week.

In Episode 42 of Songs That Don’t Suck, we dive into concert etiquette (Cleveland, we need to talk), celebrate the wild talent of Cam Cole, and highlight five killer new tracks—from Paris Paloma to Lenny Kravitz. Live music is sacred, and we’re here to protect the vibe. 💥🎶

In Episode 41 of Songs That Don’t Suck, Mark Bradbourne dives into classical commissions, shares a synth-laced Leslie Gore cover by Deep Sea Diver, and highlights new music from Sufjan Stevens, Last Dinosaurs, Deadbeat Cousins, and The Paper Kites.

Episode 40 hits hard with a live Peter Gabriel review, a toy piano throwback from Guster, and four new tracks spanning psychedelic rock to philosophical art-pop. Mark explores the sonic, the existential, and everything in between.

In Episode 39 of Songs That Don’t Suck, Mark rants about lip-sync fakery in modern music, pays tribute to Milli Vanilli, and celebrates real-deal performers like Taylor Swift and Lawrence. Plus, a toy-instrument-powered Doobie Brothers cover and four fresh tracks you don’t want to miss.

In Episode 38 of Songs That Don’t Suck, Mark explores how streaming and social behavior changed music discovery forever, unpacks a wild Frank Zappa cover of “Stairway to Heaven,” shares a surprising Cake concert review, and drops five new songs that push genre boundaries—from Grace Potter to Too Many Temples.

In Episode 37 of Songs That Don’t Suck, Mark dives into the post-COVID concert industry, rising ticket prices, venue greed, and five killer new tracks—including three standout Aussie bands and a new release from Jimmy Buffett’s final album.

In Episode 35 of Songs That Don’t Suck, host Mark Bradbourne dives into TikTok’s disruptive role in the music industry, serves up a gritty metal cover of Johnny Cash, and shares five genre-spanning tracks from Turnpike Troubadours, Royal Tusk, Cam Cole, The Paper Kites, and The Last Dinner Party.