

CD Burners
Emo Nite
CD Burners is a podcast for the lore behind the albums that defined a generation hosted by Emo Nite’s T.J. Petracca and Morgan Freed Each week, we invite a guest to choose an album that influenced them and shaped their journey. Together, we break it down with deep research and real stories from behind the scenes. We explore the songs, the recording process, and the moments that made these records unforgettable. Whether you are a lifelong fan or hearing these albums for the first time, CD Burners brings you closer to the music that made an impact. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 18, 2025 • 56min
82: Hot Fuss Was a Gateway Drug for Emo Kids w/ CARR
On this episode of CD Burners, we’re diving into Hot Fuss by The Killers, the debut album that gave us eyeliner disco, the murder trilogy, and one of the most enduring songs in internet history. Special guest, CARR joins us on the pod as we get into how Brandon Flowers tricked the world into thinking he was British, why Mr. Brightside still goes harder than it should, and how this record turned pure chaos into stadium-sized hooks. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nov 11, 2025 • 1h 1min
81: Slipknot's Debut Album Was the Birth of Chaos w/ Cam George
Cam George, podcast editor and host of Talking Talk, dives into the wild world of Slipknot's debut album. They explore how the band's chaotic sound, fueled by intense studio sessions with producer Ross Robinson, shattered metal norms. Cam shares insights on the band’s identity rooted in trauma and theatricality, while discussing their infamous antics that contributed to their mythology. The conversation touches on Slipknot’s cultural influence, emotional audience reactions, and how their music created an outlet for teenage angst.

10 snips
Nov 4, 2025 • 54min
80: Nothing Else Feels Like This Mazzy Star Record w/ Bobby Schubenski
Join Bobby Schubenski, founder of Blackcraft Cult, as he delves into the haunting allure of Mazzy Star's iconic album, *So Tonight That I Might See*. He shares personal stories about the emotional depth of tracks like 'Fade Into You' and reflects on how music transforms sadness into creativity. Bobby discusses his experiences on tour, community building on Discord, and the timelessness of Mazzy Star's sound. Discover how this beloved record continues to influence modern indie artists while encapsulating the essence of California gothic.

Oct 28, 2025 • 58min
79: The Copeland Album That Should’ve Blown Up But Didn’t w/ Kyle Patrick
Kyle Patrick, the charismatic frontman of The Click Five, joins to explore Copeland's underappreciated album, In Motion. He reflects on how it shaped his musical journey and the emotional connection it holds for many. The discussion dives into the album's unique blend of pop and emo, as well as the factors that hindered its mainstream success despite its quality. Kyle shares touring tales and how Copeland influenced his vocal style, while also recommending contemporary artists that echo their innovative spirit.

9 snips
Oct 21, 2025 • 1h 22min
78: The 1975 Made Every Band Rethink Their Sound w/ Mod Sun
Mod Sun, a dynamic musician with deep roots in the scene, joins the conversation to explore the pivotal debut album by The 1975. He reflects on the album's influence on him and other artists, highlighting the seamless blend of fun and creativity in music-making. They discuss how The 1975 redefined genre boundaries, embraced their personal style, and created a sonic world that resonated with a generation. Mod Sun shares insights about the importance of authenticity and artistic risk, making this a must-listen for fans and aspiring musicians alike.

10 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 1h 2min
77: Title Fight Changed Emo Forever with This Album w/ Patrick Miranda
Patrick Miranda, the lead vocalist of Movements, joins to dive into Title Fight's transformative album, Floral Green. He shares how he discovered the band in high school and the profound impact the record had on his musical journey. They discuss the unique genre-blurring style of Title Fight, the vibrant scene of 2010-2014, and the album's lasting influence on future bands. Patrick also reflects on his vocal style's evolution inspired by the dual approach of Title Fight, plus why Floral Green continues to resonate with new listeners today.

Oct 7, 2025 • 1h 9min
76: Avril Lavigne’s Impact Is Way Bigger Than You Think w/ Luna Shadows
Luna Shadows, an indie-pop artist known for her nostalgic sound, discusses the lasting impact of Avril Lavigne's Let Go. She explores how tracks like 'Complicated' and 'Sk8er Boi' reshaped pop-punk and influenced her own music. Luna argues for Avril’s recognition beyond meme culture and delves into the significance of the album amidst the post-9/11 landscape. With insights on songwriting and the commercial success of Let Go, Luna illustrates the album's role in opening doors for a new generation of artists.

10 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 52min
75: Everything in Transit Was Andrew McMahon's Goodbye Letter w/ Erin Gilfoy
Join Erin Gilfoy, a content creator and the host's wife, as she shares her deep connection to Jack's Mannequin's Everything in Transit. They explore Andrew McMahon's rise to fame, the album’s emotional depth, and the anecdotes surrounding its production. They reflect on themes of early adulthood and the impact of McMahon's cancer diagnosis. Erin discusses personal connections, the album's California vibe, and standout tracks like 'Dark Blue.' Tune in for nostalgia, heartfelt stories, and the enduring appeal of this iconic record.

13 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 9min
74: Nobody Thought This Blink-182 Album Would Blow Up w/ Shane Told
Shane Told, lead vocalist of Silverstein, dives into the chaotic world of Blink-182's "Dude Ranch," sharing his insider perspective as a contemporaneous artist. He discusses the tensions that arose during recording, how the album's melodious punk approach broke barriers, and the significance of tracks like "Dammit." Shane reflects on the backlash from the punk scene regarding Blink's rising fame and the humor-versus-sincerity balance in songwriting. Get ready for nostalgic memories and insights into a transformative era for pop-punk!

13 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 11min
73: This Album Destroyed The Format and Made Them Icons w/ Brian Logan Dales
Brian Logan Dales, frontman of The Summer Set, joins to discuss The Format's iconic album, Dog Problems. He reveals how the album shaped his musical identity and its dual themes of heartbreak and industry struggles. They explore its theatrical ambition and innovative sound, highlighting standout tracks and the album's impact on pop music. Brian shares his journey of crafting upbeat melodies for complex emotions and reflects on the cult fandom surrounding the band, showing why this album remains a beloved classic.


