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
Feb 17, 2026 • 49min
91: The Panic! At The Disco Album That Shocked Everyone w/ Billy Titko
Billy Titko, artist and musician launching a new project called Vanity. He describes why Panic! At The Disco's Pretty. Odd. shocked fans and later gained cult status. They talk Beatles and Jellyfish influences, theatrical vintage instrumentation, songwriting tricks, band dynamics, and the risks of dramatic stylistic shifts. Billy also teases work on Vanity and how the album shaped his aesthetic.
7 snips
Feb 10, 2026 • 48min
90: The Wild Lore Behind Coheed and Cambria’s Best Album w/ The Ready Set
Jordan Witzigreuter (The Ready Set), electropop artist and producer, shares why Coheed and Cambria’s prog-emo saga hooked him. They unpack the album’s wild sci-fi lore, genre-blending chaos, and memorable tracks. Conversations span touring tales, DIY production setups, and how the record shaped Jordan’s musical approach.
10 snips
Feb 3, 2026 • 1h 10min
89: Linkin Park Perfected the Nu-Metal Formula w/ Frank Zummo
Frank Zummo, drummer known for Sum 41 and Street Drum Corps, shares personal memories and his Linkin Park ties. He recounts opening for the band, playing at Chester tributes, and why Hybrid Theory crossed genres. Conversations touch on touring anecdotes, emo night culture, production choices, and the album’s lasting cultural impact.
10 snips
Jan 27, 2026 • 59min
88: Elliott Smith Was The Emo Whisperer w/ Sarah Tudzin
Sarah Tudzin, producer, songwriter, and frontperson of Illuminati Hotties, reflects on Elliott Smith's Either/Or and its quiet, devastating power. She discusses the album's lo-fi recording quirks, tape warmth, and doubled vocals. Conversation touches on Either/Or's role in shaping sad songwriting and its influence on a generation of musicians.
9 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 60min
87: This Record Got Green Day Kicked Out of Punk w/ Ryan Savitski
In this engaging discussion, Ryan Savitski, vocalist of the band One Step Closer, shares how Green Day's Dookie influenced him and countless others. He highlights the pivotal moment when Green Day was banned from their scene for signing with a major label. Ryan reminisces about his first punk show and how Dookie ignited his passion for music. The conversation dives into the tension between maintaining punk credibility and achieving commercial success, showcasing how this iconic album became the blueprint for pop-punk.
10 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 49min
86: Through Being Cool Is Still Emo’s Secret Weapon w/ Andrew Hurley
Join Andrew Hurley, drummer for Fall Out Boy, as he reflects on the seminal emo album, Through Being Cool by Saves the Day. Andrew shares how this record intertwined genres and influenced his musical journey. They dive into vivid memories of first impressions, the emotional honesty of the lyrics, and the quick recording processes that birthed iconic tracks. The conversation also touches on the interconnectedness of the music scene and modern records that evoke similar sincerity. It's a nostalgic and insightful look at a true generational blueprint.
10 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 19min
85: Listening To Your Voicemails Bonus Pod
The hosts dive into your voicemails, sharing hilarious listener suggestions and hot takes on beloved albums. They react to a garbled call with plenty of banter and warmth, especially towards Sarah's emo album picks. One caller humorously complains that their voices burn his skin, sparking laughs about health tips. Other callers recommend lesser-known bands and nostalgic favorites. With plenty of funny clips and playful jabs, T.J. and Morgan keep the energy high while engaging with their community.
Dec 9, 2025 • 1h 10min
84: The Messiest Paramore Era Made Their Best Album w/ Morgan Pope
Morgan Pope, a Reality TV personality from Big Brother and music curator, dives deep into Paramore's "Brand New Eyes." She shares personal memories of discovering the band and the album's emotional resonance during her senior year. They discuss the internal band tensions, relationships, and how these struggles fueled the lyrics. Highlights include the significance of the song "Ignorance," and the album's melodic strengths. Morgan also reflects on how music served as a coping mechanism during pressure situations, both in life and on reality TV.
Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 7min
83: The Album That Took Brand New from Pop Punk to Poetic w/ Dan Lourenco
Dan Lourenco, the CEO and Founder of the lifestyle brand Ghost and an advocate for emo culture, joins to delve into Brand New's transformative album, Deja Entendu. He reflects on the poignant, cryptic lyrics and the band's shift from pop punk to deeper themes. The discussion touches on the album's grunge influences, its resonant songwriting, and how it shaped a generation's musical journey. Dan also shares personal anecdotes tied to the album and his efforts to bring Brand New back for their fans. A fascinating exploration of music's cultural impact!
Nov 18, 2025 • 56min
82: Hot Fuss Was a Gateway Drug for Emo Kids w/ CARR
Dive into the iconic 'Hot Fuss' as special guest CARR shares their love for The Killers. Discover how Brandon Flowers convinced fans he was British and why the timeless classic 'Mr. Brightside' keeps resonating. Hear about the raw energy of the album's recording process and the intriguing theories surrounding its supposed murder trilogy. Plus, a lively debate on whether the album would still shine if released today and what modern artists capture that unmistakable Killers vibe.
