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“More, More, More: Sex, Synths, and the Sound of the Disco Era”
The pulsating Moog synthesiser riff in "More, More, More" is instantly recognisable. This distinctive sound is part of what makes the song timeless, capturing the vibrant feel of the disco era while remaining appealing to new generations. The synth line hooks the listener from the outset, setting the stage for a track that is as infectious today as it was at its release.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
1 day ago2 min read


Paul McCartney's Scottish Ode
"Mull of Kintyre" remains one of Wings' most beloved songs, emerging as a cultural touchstone in the late 1970s.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
5 days ago3 min read


The End of an Era: MTV's Unplugged Magic and Why It Still Matters
The recent closure of MTV's music channel has stirred memories and emotions for music lovers everywhere, especially for those of us who grew up watching legendary performances on MTV Unplugged. For my mate Andy and me, these broadcasts were more than just music; they were cultural events. So, as we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, let's dive into why these gigs were so iconic and explore our favourite performances.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
6 days ago3 min read


Did the Bee Gees Invent Sampling? An Investigative Dive
The claim that Stayin' Alive was built from a sample of Night Fever has intrigued music enthusiasts for decades. But did the Bee Gees truly invent sampling?

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 225 min read


Musical Similarity or Copycat?
In the landscape of pop music, certain controversies stand out due to their cultural impact and the questions they raise about creativity. One such case involves Huey Lewis and the News' "I Want a New Drug" and Ray Parker Jr.'s "Ghostbusters" theme. These two tracks have been frequently mentioned together in discussions of musical similarity, bringing both artistic and legal questions to the forefront.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 187 min read


Chatting Tracks – Dive into the Beatleverse with Rubber Soul
Rubber Soul boasts a variety of tracks, but Michelle stands out with its French twist. Interestingly, this track might trace its roots back to 1959. Its chilled vibes and unique guitar solo make it feel like an earlier Beatles song. Don’t you just love its meaningful lyrics? Though you might chuckle at their playful use of French, it all adds to the charm.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 123 min read


Madonna's impact on '90s music and fashion
In the 1990s, Madonna's influence on both the music and fashion industries was nothing short of extraordinary. During this decade, she emerged not only as a pop sensation but also as a trendsetter whose bold and innovative style choices were emulated by countless fans and aspiring pop stars worldwide. Her fearless willingness to push boundaries in both her music and her wardrobe set new standards for those who followed in her footsteps.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 117 min read


Discovering Xui Xui: An Experimental Musical Journey
Meet Xiu Xiu—a band that has just released their 18th album. This one’s a covers album, and it’s already considered one of their best. I’ve got a soft spot for the 80s, so we couldn’t resist checking out their cover of Anola Gay. Fun fact: I recently met the lead singer, and he gave me a David Bowie book. But that’s a story for another day. This cover is from their album titled "Xiu Xiu Mother Funking Xiu Volume One." Let’s dive in!

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 82 min read


Discovering Long Fling: A Unique Indie Experience.
Recently, we received an enthusiastic email urging us to check out a band called Long Fling. This intriguing group consists of Pip Bloom from Pip Bloom and Villim Smith from Personal Trainer. Based in Amsterdam, they've been collaborating creatively for a decade, and now, they bring us their first album, also titled "Long Fling."

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 73 min read


The Top 10 MTV Unplugged Performances: Reliving Iconic Moments
MTV Unplugged has gifted us unforgettable moments where bands and singers strip down their hits to raw, acoustic brilliance. From legendary performances to hidden gems, these sessions have left an indelible mark on music history. At Chatting Tracks, we’re all about celebrating those musical moments that come to life, and what better way than to revisit these iconic performances?

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 75 min read


Discovering New Sounds: Ship Says Om
Ship Says Om is the solo project of Jenny Gillespie Mason, based in San Francisco. With a rich history, including collaborations with Sis and the Lower Wisdom, Jenny is also the founder of Native Cat Recordings, a feminist label supporting fellow artists.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 73 min read


A Rock Photographer's Journey: Capturing Iconic Guitars
Hey there, Robbie from Chatting Tracks here. I recently caught up with Kane Hibbard, the mastermind behind an extraordinary guitar photography exhibition. Kane's journey into music photography began back in 2005.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Jan 53 min read


Top 11 Musical Trio Groups of All Time
When it comes to the world of musical trios, there's something uniquely compelling about the synergy and harmony these groups create. Here, we delve into the top 11 music trios of all time—those that have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape through their influential sounds and unforgettable hits.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 31, 20258 min read


End of an Icon: MTV's History
MTV (Music Television) was launched on August 1, 1981, marking a significant turning point in the way music was consumed by audiences across the globe. Before MTV's debut, music was primarily accessed through radio or live performances, with limited visual representation. However, MTV introduced an innovative platform that married music with television, providing a fresh, dynamic format that captivated viewers.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 28, 20257 min read


New Queen Xmas Track Revealed
Queen has once again ignited the music scene with the release of a previously unheard Christmas song titled "Not For Sale (Polar Bear)." Unveiled after years of anticipation, this discovery comes as a delightful surprise to both longtime fans and music enthusiasts, highlighting the band's enduring legacy and influence.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 26, 20256 min read


Unhinged: Inside the Doors Lawsuit
"Unhinged: Inside the Doors Lawsuit" by John Densmore delves deeply into the intricate and controversial legal battle surrounding one of rock music's most enigmatic and influential bands,

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 26, 20257 min read


Merry Xmas Everybody: How Slade Created the Ultimate British Christmas Anthem
Few Christmas songs can claim to define an entire nation’s festive soundtrack. Fewer still can fill pubs, living rooms, football stadiums, and radio airwaves with the same explosive energy year after year. “Merry Xmas Everybody” by Slade is one of those rare songs.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 24, 20254 min read


Driving Home for Christmas: Why Chris Rea’s Festive Classic Feels So Personal
Every Christmas has its soundtrack. For some, it’s loud and celebratory, filled with sleigh bells and singalong choruses. For others, it’s quieter — reflective, emotional, and rooted in the moments between celebration. Few songs capture that quieter side of the season better than “Driving Home for Christmas” by Chris Rea.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 23, 20255 min read


Wonderful Christmastime: Paul McCartney’s Most Debated Christmas Classic
Few Christmas songs inspire as much discussion, division, and yearly reappraisal as “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney. Since its release in 1979, the song has become a permanent fixture of the festive season — played endlessly on the radio, in shops, at parties, and across streaming playlists every December. And yet, it remains one of the most hotly debated holiday songs of all time.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 23, 20255 min read


Do Plastic Sleeves Ruin Records?
he use of plastic sleeves for vinyl records has long been a topic of debate among collectors and audiophiles, each with their own passionate opinions and experiences. Vinyl enthusiasts understand the importance of preserving the condition of their records, not only for aesthetic reasons but also for maintaining the value of their collections. Plastic sleeves, often made from materials such as polyethene.

Robbie & Andy - Chatting Tracks
Dec 21, 20257 min read
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