

Bandsplain
The Ringer
Bandsplain is a show where host Yasi Salek invites experts to explain cult bands and iconic artists - and why people love them - using a curated playlist to help you understand the hype.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 11, 2021 • 39min
The Goo Goo Dolls with Chris Black
In Bandsplain’s very first crossover episode, we welcome self-proclaimed cultural polymath Chris Black of the elite bro-cast How Long Gone to explain 90s icons Goo Goo Dolls. Follow Chris Black on Twitter at @donetodeath. Subscribe to How Long Gone on Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 4, 2021 • 55min
Phish with Rob Mitchum
Writer Rob Mitchum takes Yasi deep into the world of one of the most dedicated, enduring, and (some may say) mysterious fandoms of all time: Phish Heads. Follow Rob Mitchum on Twitter at @robmitchum and subscribe to his Grateful Dead podcast, 36 From the Vault, on Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 25, 2021 • 41min
My Chemical Romance with Hanif Abdurraqib
Join poet and critic Hanif Abdurraqib as he dives into the emo phenomenon of My Chemical Romance. He shares his journey discovering the band and reflects on their theatrical performances and profound lyrical themes like mortality and identity. The discussion highlights the impact of their aesthetic evolution, particularly during 'The Black Parade' era. Hanif emphasizes how the band's music resonates with themes of alienation and community, celebrating the loyal fandom that continues to thrive through nostalgia.

Feb 18, 2021 • 45min
MF Doom with Open Mike Eagle
In tribute to the late MF DOOM, Yasi is joined by rapper, comedian, and podcaster Open Mike Eagle to explore the fantastical world of perhaps the most influential underground rapper of all time.You can follow Open Mike Eagle on Twitter at @Mike_Eagle and listen to him on Spotify. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 11, 2021 • 39min
Steely Dan with Alex Pappademas
Yasi invites music journalist Alex Pappademas on the show to explain the sound, impact, and fandom of the world’s ultimate dad band: Steely Dan.Alex’s book on Steely Dan, Quantum Criminals: Ramblers, Wild Gamblers, Babylon Sisters, and Other Soul Survivors from the Songs of Steely Dan is out in 2022 on University of Texas, Austin Press. You can follow Alex at @pappedemas on Twitter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices