
CD Burners
CD Burners, hosted by the dynamic duo behind Emo Nite, T.J. Petracca and Morgan Freed, is your new go-to podcast for an immersive journey into the heart of iconic albums. Each episode offers a deep dive into a specific album that defined an era.
Listeners are treated to exclusive interviews with the artists themselves, from the band members who poured their hearts into the music to the producers who captured the magic in the studio. But it doesn't stop there; CD Burners also brings in voices from behind the scenes - the key players whose stories breathe new life into the music we thought we knew. Each episode is a journey through the creation, impact, and legacy of an album, enriched with sound bites and anecdotes that provide a fresh perspective on these beloved tracks.
Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the scene, CD Burners offers a unique blend of nostalgia, insight, and storytelling that will deepen your appreciation for these musical milestones. Tune in weekly to rediscover the albums that defined a genre, as T.J. Petracca and Morgan Freed guide you through the hidden layers and untold stories of the music that shaped a generation.
Latest episodes

Apr 1, 2025 • 44min
49: The Story Behind The Format’s Unsung Masterpiece
Dive into a celebration of Interventions + Lullabies, an album that redefined indie pop adoration yet went underappreciated. The hosts passionately defend its brilliance against misguided criticisms, sharing personal connections to the music. They also explore the nostalgia tied to overlooked bands and share the joy of discovering hidden gems in today's evolving music landscape. Anecdotes of a surprise reunion highlight the significance of the band's legacy, while the art of album production reveals the collaborative spirit that shaped its sound.

Mar 25, 2025 • 1h 7min
48: Panic! at the Disco’s Rise — Told by Their Producer
Matt Squire, a record producer famous for his work with Panic! at the Disco, shares behind-the-scenes insights on the making of their iconic debut album. He discusses the chaotic yet creative recording process and the unexpected challenges that led to groundbreaking moments. The emotional impact of music and the delicate balance between artistic integrity and commercial demands are explored. Squire also reflects on the quirky journey of the band's rise to fame, blending humor with heartfelt memories of their path in the music industry.

Mar 18, 2025 • 1h 19min
47: How The Get Up Kids Changed Emo Forever
Matt Pryor, the founding member and lead vocalist of The Get Up Kids, shares an insider's view on the groundbreaking album 'Something To Write Home About.' He discusses how the band reshaped emo and pop-punk music, exploring the legacy they've built. The conversation delves into the impact of Vagrant Records, the catchy track '10 Minutes,' and personal anecdotes about concert experiences. Pryor reflects on the band's unique role in the '90s music scene and the ongoing influence they have on new artists today.

Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 21min
46: How Something Corporate Made Their Debut Album — Told by Andrew McMahon
In this engaging conversation, Andrew McMahon, the talented frontman of Something Corporate, shares insights about their debut album, Leaving Through the Window. He reflects on the emotional weight of piano-driven pop-punk and the unique challenges of merging piano with the genre. McMahon explores his songwriting journey, including personal anecdotes and how relationships have influenced his lyrics. The discussion also touches on the evolving music landscape, regional influences, and the camaraderie among bands during the Warped Tour, creating a nostalgic yet vibrant narrative.

Mar 4, 2025 • 1h 6min
45: How Hellogoodbye’s Weird Little Album Took Over the Internet
Forrest Kline, the frontman of Hellogoodbye and a pioneer of Bedroom Pop, shares his journey through the chaotic landscape of music creation. He talks about the evolution of music production, from Fruity Loops to the blending of electronic and acoustic sounds. Kline emphasizes the importance of individuality in songwriting and reflects on the nostalgic vibes of the Myspace era. He recounts his growth from graphic design to music, highlighting personal stories that shaped his artistic path while showcasing the joy of spontaneity in music creation.

Feb 25, 2025 • 58min
44: The Story Behind Blink-182’s Breakthrough Album
Dive into the nostalgic world of Blink-182's iconic album that shaped the punk landscape. Discover how 'Enema of the State' resonated with late '90s youth culture and became a timeless anthem. The quirky origins of the album cover and humorous recording stories reveal the band's playful spirit. Explore their tumultuous journey, the evolution of their sound, and the significance of tracks like 'What's My Age Again.' It's a celebration of relatability, humor, and the enduring impact of pop-punk!

Feb 18, 2025 • 1h 9min
43: The Spill Canvas’ Cult Classic — What Really Happened
Nick Thomas, frontman of The Spill Canvas, shares insights on the band's influential album 'No Really, I'm Fine,' celebrating its 20th anniversary. He discusses the transition from indie to major label success and the thrill of recording at the iconic Sunset Sound studio. The conversation delves into the challenges of the digital music landscape, reflecting on fan interactions and marketing evolution. Thomas also opens up about the inspiration behind their song 'Saved,' its connection to Superman Returns, and the personal struggles that shaped their music and identity.

Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 34min
42: MCR’s Three Cheers Changed Everything — Howard Benson Tells the Story
Howard Benson, a renowned music producer known for his work with rock and pop-punk bands, shares fascinating insights about producing My Chemical Romance's influential album, 'Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge.' He discusses the band's evolution from indie roots to a theatrical sound, the emotional drive behind their music following personal loss, and the artistic risks taken during the mid-2000s. The cultural impact of vintage sounds, the chaos of recording, and the importance of collaboration add layers to this captivating discussion.

Feb 4, 2025 • 55min
41: The Truth Behind Paramore’s Wild Rise — The Riot! Era
Discover the transformative journey of Paramore's 'Riot!' and how it shook the music scene. The hosts dive into the band's rise, exploring themes of gender roles and the challenges of fame. They reflect on the authenticity of Paramore's sound and their connection with fans, shaped by the internet. Listen in as they celebrate the emotional depth of the band's lyrics and share personal stories of rediscovery. The discussion also touches on the band's nostalgic moments and growth, emphasizing the interplay between mental health and creativity.

Jan 28, 2025 • 20min
Listening to Your Voicemails | Bonus Episode
Unexpectedly humorous insights into how dogs change as they age kick off the discussion. Listener voicemails deliver a mix of praise and emo band recommendations, reflecting the genre's cultural impact. Nostalgia takes hold as they reminisce about past events and AOL's free trials, fostering connections with their audience. A dive into meme culture reveals the battle between humor and commercialization. Lastly, a listener shares their musical dreams, sparking lively chatter about the industry and the importance of community engagement.