

Dissect
The Ringer
Analyzing the music and meaning of one album per season, one song per episode. Join host Cole Cuchna as he dives deep into albums by Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, Radiohead, Beyonce, Tyler The Creator, Frank Ocean, and more. Let's Dissect.
Episodes
Mentioned books

12 snips
Oct 24, 2019 • 33min
S5E5 - DNA. (Part 2) by Kendrick Lamar
Dive into the explosive second half of Kendrick Lamar's 'DNA,' where he confronts the media with fierce intensity. Discover how the song addresses universal traits of sex, money, and murder that connect us all. Explore the chaos of hip-hop culture and spirituality as Kendrick challenges inherited vices. Witness the irony of fame through his reflections on success and its pitfalls. Biblical symbolism and themes of betrayal reveal the artist's struggle with identity in a world rife with systemic challenges.

9 snips
Oct 22, 2019 • 41min
S5E4 - DNA. (Part 1) by Kendrick Lamar
The podcast dives into Kendrick Lamar's 'DNA,' unpacking themes of identity shaped by heritage, environment, and culture. It explores the profound societal injustices reflected in his lyrics while connecting his personal story to biblical references. Listeners learn about his inner struggle between peace and violence, revealing the complexities of his upbringing. The analysis includes a defense of hip-hop culture and highlights the song's unique musical style, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of Kendrick's artistry.

Oct 15, 2019 • 45min
S5E3 - BLOOD. by Kendrick Lamar
We begin our season-long analysis of DAMN. with the opening track BLOOD. We unpack the many layers of the wickedness/weakness dichotomy presented as well as the cryptic parable in which Kendrick is shot by a blind lady -- or shall we call her Lady Justice?Say hi @dissectpodcast on Twitter and Instagram. Purchase Dissect merch at https://shop.dissectpodcast.com/. Listen to original Dissect themes on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2k8BsZM. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

8 snips
Oct 10, 2019 • 36min
S5E2 - TPAB as Preface to DAMN.
The discussion revisits Kendrick Lamar's 'To Pimp a Butterfly,' focusing on its connection to 'DAMN.' and the evolution of his artistry. Themes of spirituality, survival guilt, and the duality of fame are examined, highlighting Kendrick's personal and societal struggles. A particularly poignant moment explores his interaction with a homeless man, emphasizing humility and community empowerment. The narrative also reflects on Kendrick's role as a prophetic figure within the Black community, drawing parallels to icon Tupac Shakur and exploring the overarching theme of resilience.

5 snips
Oct 8, 2019 • 44min
S5E1 - Kendrick Lamar: DAMN.
Explore Kendrick Lamar's powerful journey from his upbringing in Compton to his artistic evolution. Delve into the themes of faith, redemption, and the human condition as reflected in his music. Discover how his iconic BET performance became a symbol of hope amid racial injustice. The tragic story of Keisha highlights the urgency for awareness and healing. Experience the contrasting themes of light and darkness that characterize his discography, revealing Kendrick's profound insights into identity and spirituality.

Jul 23, 2019 • 46min
S4E14 - Epilogue: IGOR by Tyler the Creator
Today’s special episode dissects Tyler, The Creator’s 2019 album IGOR. After a thorough dissection of the album’s narrative, we hypothesize about thematic and narrative connections between IGOR and Flower Boy.Purchase limited Season 4 merchandise at shop.dissectpodcast.com.Stay in touch over the break by following @dissectpodcast on Twitter and Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 16, 2019 • 1h 23min
S4E13 - Season Finale: Flower Boy
After a thorough recap of the album’s narrative, we draw some final conclusions about the themes of Flower Boy and dissect the album’s cover art and title. We then hear from you, the Dissect audience, sharing their biggest takeaways from the album.Purchase limited Season 4 merchandise at shop.dissectpodcast.com.Stay in touch over the break by following @dissectpodcast on Twitter and Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 9, 2019 • 34min
S4E12 - Glitter by Tyler, The Creator
Our season long analysis of Flower Boy continues with the song “Glitter”. It’s that Tyler’s album long journey culminates with him expressing how he feels to the love interest he’s been chasing throughout Flower Boy. But as we’ll discover, this beautiful moment comes with a twist ending.Purchase limited Season 4 merchandise at shop.dissectpodcast.com.New episodes of Dissect release every Tuesday. Follow @dissectpodcast on Twitter and Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 2, 2019 • 35min
S4E11 - November by Tyler, the Creator
Our season long analysis of Flower Boy continues with the song “November.” In terms of the album’s narrative, “November” represents rock bottom, an emotional low point. But after a near death experience, Tyler is inspired to pull over his sports car and seize his moment.Purchase limited Season 4 merchandise at shop.dissectpodcast.com.New episodes of Dissect release every Tuesday. Follow @dissectpodcast on Twitter and Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jun 25, 2019 • 39min
S4E10 - "911 / Mr Lonely" by Tyler, the Creator
Limited Season 4 merchandise available at https://shop.dissectpodcast.com/store.Our season long analysis of Flower Boy continues with the song “911/Mr Lonely”. Despite its upbeat tempo and danceability, “911/Mr Lonely” is in Tyler’s own words “the saddest song I’ve ever written.” Find out why through our line-by-line analysis.New episodes of Dissect release every Tuesday. Follow @dissectpodcast on Twitter and Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices


