coolest collaborations

It’s our 25th episode! What better way to celebrate than with a chat about collaboration—the good, the weird, and the legendary.

comeback

In this episode, Christina and Christine discuss notable musical comebacks, highlighting Ben Kweller’s return with “Dollar Store” after personal tragedy, and the resurgence of Ethiopian musician Girma Bèyènè, who returned to music decades after leaving Ethiopia. DO call it a comeback!

summer song

Summer songs… make me feel fine. In honor of the upcoming official first day of summer, the hosts share their “songs of the summer” (with a caveat–these songs were picked in summer ’24!).

long song

This week’s discussion centers on the longest enjoyable songs. Christina favors Kraftwerk’s “Autobahn” at 22 minutes and 43 seconds, ideal for road trips. Meanwhile, Christine loves “No Hay Ritmo” by Capablanca & T.Keeler, a 10-minute 55-second track that energizes listeners with its Afro Cuban rhythm and classic jaleos. Share your favorite long song on Instagram!

Guilty

This week, Christine and Christina dive into songs that evoked childhood guilt for loving them, even if it might have been wrong. Christine recalls Madonna’s “Burning Up,” made even more challenging by her Catholic upbringing. Similarly, Christina reflects on Romeo Void’s “Never Say Never,” with misinterpreted lyrics amplifying the song’s taboo allure.

Problematic artists

This episode discusses the complexities of enjoying music by problematic artists, highlighting Morrissey and Michael Jackson. While acknowledging their musical talent, hosts Christine and Christina express concerns about the artists’ controversial actions. They pose the question of whether fans can separate the art from the artist, leaving the decision to the audience.

Problematic songs

This week’s Stereothematica episode explores problematic songs that blend nostalgia with troubling themes. Christine highlights Joe Dassin’s “L’été Indien,” capturing colonial baggage, while Christina discusses Jimmy Soul’s catchy yet misogynistic “If You Wanna Be Happy.” Who gets canceled? Hopefully not these hosts!

Soothing Songs

This week’s episode highlights soothing songs intended to help listeners relax and unwind. Christina discusses John Maus’s cover of “Hey Moon,” reflecting on the artist’s contradictions, while Christine shares the Brendan Eder Ensemble’s “Isn’t it True,” which offers comfort during difficult times. Tune in and bliss out.

GeT UP AND DANCE!

This week on Stereothematica, Christine and Christina celebrate songs that make you want to get up and DANCE! They deep dive into Raffaella Carrà’s “Rumore,” and General Public’s “Tenderness,” highlighting their infectious rhythms and cultural impact.

Unique instrument

Christina and Christine explore unique musical instruments, with picks featuring the theremin and the harmonium.