

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

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.

Jan 21, 2025 • 57min
40: The Rise, Fall, and Return of Warped Tour – Kevin Lyman Reflects
In this enlightening talk, Kevin Lyman, the visionary behind the iconic Vans Warped Tour, shares his journey of rekindling a passion for music amidst the festival industry's challenges. He reflects on Warped's monumental legacy in fostering community and mentorship among artists. The conversation dives into the evolving landscape of music collaborations, emphasizing authenticity and support for emerging talent. Lyman also discusses the nostalgic connections formed at festivals and the importance of accessibility and engagement in reviving cultural initiatives for a new generation.

Jan 14, 2025 • 52min
39: The Drama Behind Emo’s Most Explosive Debut
Dive into the chaotic world of emo music as the pivotal debut album by Taking Back Sunday takes center stage. Discover the intense drama sparked by band breakups and rivalries, especially the tension between Taking Back Sunday and Brand New. Hear personal anecdotes tied to iconic songs and the nostalgia that fuels them. Explore how the dynamics between musicians and producers transformed the album's sound. Laugh and reflect on the personal struggles behind the lyrics while uncovering the lasting legacy of this genre-defining masterpiece.