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Can you really go back to being “just friends”? In this episode Joe and Toby dig into “Back to Friends” by rising artist sombr, unpacking why this deceptively simple breakup song hits such a deep nerve. What starts as a discussion about a chart-climbing track quickly becomes a wide-ranging conversation about relationships, emotional maturity, artistic process, and the strange pressures of blowing up at twenty years old. Joe and Toby explore the universal tension at the heart of the song: the moment when intimacy ends, but connection hasn’t fully let go. Drawing from personal stories, they reflect on why “staying friends” so often fails, how nostalgia and comfort can keep people stuck, and why distance is sometimes the healthiest form of closure . The conversation also dives into sombr’s rapid rise, songwriting process, and creative discipline. From bedroom production to viral moments, they examine what it takes to build authentic music in the TikTok era, while pushing back on lazy “nepo baby” narratives and discussing the difference between criticism and performative hate . Along the way, the episode expands into thoughtful territory: the dopamine loop of outrage culture, scarcity vs. abundance mindsets in creativity, the value of repetition and throwing work away, and how artists evolve once their early heartbreak stories have been told. As always, Riffs on Riffs blends humor, honesty, and musical curiosity, closing with listener recommendations and reflections on what it means to grow up, move on, and keep writing anyway. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby unpack Ella Langley’s breakout country single “Choosin' Texas” and use it as a launchpad for a wide-ranging conversation about authenticity, songwriting, and what it means to grow up musically without losing your soul. What starts as a joke about surprise Midwest snowfall quickly turns into a thoughtful exploration of why this song feels different from so much of modern pop-country, and why that difference matters . The hosts dig into Langley’s storytelling chops, her old-school sensibilities, and the emotional maturity behind a song that resists the usual breakup tropes. Instead of smashed windows and slashed tires, “Choosing Texas” offers something rarer: reflection, restraint, and the quiet devastation of watching someone make a choice you can’t stop. Joe and Toby break down how her voice, her writing, and her refusal to rely on heavy production tricks like autotune make the song feel raw, human, and deeply relatable. From there, the episode expands into a bigger discussion about music, culture, and time. The guys talk about legacy artists, the importance of real voices, the dangers of AI-generated art, and why slowing down matters more than ever. Along the way, they share personal stories, music recommendations, and their own creative philosophies, connecting Langley’s work to everything from grunge to hip-hop to old folk songs about frogs going to court. This is an episode about choice, growth, and what happens when artists stop chasing trends and start telling the truth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe and Toby clock in just ahead of game time to break down “All the Way” by BigXThaPlug, a country-rap crossover featuring Bailey Zimmerman. What starts as a quick review turns into a wide-ranging riff on genre blending, formulaic pop music, and where authenticity still lives in an increasingly algorithm-driven soundscape. Both hosts land in the same place with different routes: the song is fine, serviceable, and clearly engineered for mass appeal, but it never quite surprises. From there, the discussion widens to Big X the Plug’s broader album strategy, the heavy reliance on country features, and whether these collaborations feel like organic artistic chemistry or calculated plug-ins designed to maximize reach. Joe questions the rigidity of the verse-chorus-rap-verse formula, while Toby frames the project as a cake pulled from the oven just a little too early. The episode also detours into larger cultural territory. They unpack the rise of AI-assisted music, debating whether it’s a creative shortcut, a novelty, or a symptom of an industry already addicted to predictability. Analogies fly, from fast food to microwave meals, as Joe and Toby wrestle with what listeners really want: innovation or familiarity. Along the way, they touch on Texas hip-hop history, DJ Screw, the legacy of Southern rap, and why genre boundaries still spark outrage in 2025. Anchored by humor, sharp critiques, and a ticking pre-game clock, this episode isn’t just about one song. It’s about what pop music is, what it’s becoming, and whether “just okay” is good enough anymore. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby take a deep, joyful, and thoughtful journey into “Baile Inolvidable”, a song that feels like a dance remembered long after the music stops. What begins as a discussion of Bad Bunny’s latest single quickly unfolds into a rich conversation about salsa, nostalgia, cultural memory, and what it means to honor your roots while still pushing art forward. We explore how “Baile Inolvidable” functions on multiple levels: as a love song, a reflection on formative relationships, and a bold artistic statement. We discuss Bad Bunny’s decision to fully embrace salsa, a genre with deep historical and cultural significance, and how that choice adds emotional weight to the song’s themes of acceptance, gratitude, and looking back without regret. Along the way, Toby and Joe share personal stories sparked by the music, including memories of learning to dance, the generosity of dance communities, and the way certain songs can instantly transport us to another time in our lives. The episode also breaks down the music video’s powerful symbolism, including the appearance of Puerto Rican cultural icons and subtle visual details that reward curious viewers willing to look a little deeper. Beyond the song itself, the conversation expands into larger ideas about creativity, stillness, and why boredom and rest are essential for making meaningful art. We reflect on Bad Bunny’s career choices, his cultural activism, his genre-defying approach, and the importance of making space for voices and styles that may be unfamiliar to some listeners. This episode is about dance as memory, music as education, and art as an invitation to learn, move, and feel together. Whether you’re a longtime Bad Bunny fan or encountering his work more deeply for the first time, this conversation offers context, warmth, and plenty of reasons to press play again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Riffs on Riffs, where in this episode Joe and Toby break down Amber Mark’s “Sweet Serotonin,” a track off her latest album Pretty Ideas, and explore why she’s becoming one of the most compelling voices in modern pop, R&B, and genre-bending artistry. They dive into Amber’s global background—Jamaican roots, German family, years spent in Berlin, India, Miami, and New York—and how that cultural mixtape shapes her sound. From Motown and Amy Winehouse inflections to country detours, folk gems, and dreamy pop, Amber refuses to fit neatly into any genre box. Some of the riffing: • The Tiny Desk (Home) performance that proves Amber has serious vocal chops • Wildly different tracks across the album—from “Let Me Love You” to the John the Blind collab • Her production journey from GarageBand to fully owning her artistic vision • Great covers (Sade! Bill Withers!) and why they matter • The dopamine-vs-serotonin debate and what the song is really saying • Touring with Sabrina Carpenter and the potential power-duo moment we all need • Whether Pretty Ideas is officially vinyl-worthy And then, as only Joe and Toby can, the episode spirals into hilarious side quests: parenting through playlists, NBA-fueled late nights, Jay-Z’s ability to stop time, speakerphone offenders in public (stop it!), Thanksgiving myth-busting, flash-mob revenge fantasies, and the eternal struggle of Browns fans. Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and let us know: Is Pretty Ideas vinyl-worthy for you? What should Joe & Toby’s holiday song be? And have you ever wanted to throw a metaphorical penalty flag at a speakerphone sociopath? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Daniel Caesar quietly dropped his album "Son of Spergy", most of the world didn’t see it coming. In this episode Joe and Toby dive deep into Caesar’s lead single “Call On Me,” uncovering the soulful layers, hidden nuance, and emotional depth that make his music feel both intimate and transcendent. Per usual, the conversation starts with a laugh — Shakespeare references, hats, and Toby’s ongoing book of analogies — but soon spirals into an exploration of what harmony really means in music and in life. Joe breaks out the guitar to dissect Caesar’s deceptively simple two-chord vamp, revealing how small changes in tonality and phrasing can create something entirely fresh in pop music. Toby draws parallels between gospel, jazz, and the improvisational genius that defines Caesar’s sound — a sound that lives in tension between structure and soul. Together, they explore: The gospel and jazz DNA behind Caesar’s harmonies How musical “vocabularies” shape every artist — and why Caesar’s is joyfully odd The spiritual throughline in his songwriting and his relationship with his father What it means to reconcile faith, creativity, and identity through art Why harmony, not balance, is the truer metaphor for living a whole life As the conversation unfolds, “Call On Me” becomes a mirror for something universal — how we all try to live as complex, imperfect humans in search of connection and clarity. Joe and Toby riff on everything from Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey to side quests in Zelda, from father-son relationships to finding the melody that ties our stories together. By the end, what starts as a discussion about one artist’s song becomes a meditation on purpose, reconciliation, and the beauty of learning to live in harmony — musically, emotionally, and spiritually. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sink your teeth into Tame Impala’s “Dracula” as Joe and Toby riff on the glittering, slightly dystopian pull of Kevin Parker’s synth-pop era. Is “Dracula” a shimmering cousin to “The Less I Know the Better”? Where do The Weeknd vibes and MJ/“Thriller” nods fit in? The duo debates lone-wolf studio genius vs. the power of collaboration, decode the video’s cult-ish unease, geek out on sounds (hello, Rhodes), and swap notes on why nighttime unlocks different creative choices. They close with a heartfelt nod to D’Angelo’s enduring influence. In this episode: Why “Dracula” and “The Less I Know the Better” feel like siblings The charm of “danceable but unsettling” pop Timbaland breadcrumbs vs. Rick Rubin chameleon-mode: producer fingerprints Studio polish vs. live translation—how Tame makes it work Instruments we love (and lovingly roast): Rhodes, sax, clarinet/oboe Night-mode creativity—why some songs only reveal themselves after dark A tribute to D’Angelo’s legacy Follow Riffs on Riffs everywhere you listen, and say hi on Instagram @riffsonriffs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Slide into cozy Sunday-morning vibes with Joe and Toby as they dive into Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need” from her new album The Art of Loving. They unpack why this track is exploding right now, trace the album’s inspirations (bell hooks’ All About Love and a Mickalene Thomas installation), and explore the record’s intentional warmth — “fearless joy” delivered with classic, less-is-more production and a spotlight on Dean’s voice. In this episode: Why “Man I Need” became the pick—and what makes the whole album vinyl-worthy. The art-as-antidote conversation: simplicity, authenticity, and choosing collaborators with purpose. Lineage and influences: Whitney to Sade to Amy/Alicia echoes—without sounding retro-stuck. Crafting in a “house of love”: eight weeks, a favorite piano, and a feel of warmth. Healing and creative practice: nature, community, volunteering, and the “ten-things” reset list. Tell us your top four tracks from The Art of Loving. Drop a comment and keep the conversation going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe and Toby ladle up a hearty conversation about Remi Wolf’s track “Soup” from her 2024 release Big Ideas. From funky basslines to chaotic brilliance, they break down how Remi’s stream-of-consciousness writing and fearless authenticity create songs that are equal parts journal entry and anthem. Along the way, Joe and Toby reflect on what it means to show up as your whole self—in music, in work, and in life. Expect tangents on chili’s questionable soup status, Spotify relapses, lobster bisque loyalty, and spirit animals. Can you guess who might be a koala? Whether you’re a longtime Remi Wolf fan or just discovering her sound, this episode blends music analysis, personal stories, and plenty of laughs into one big, tasty bowl. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Sometimes all I think about is you…” In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby revisit Glass Animals’ breakout hit “Heat Waves” — the indie-pop anthem that simmered for more than a year before reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. They explore how a song written in an hour became a global phenomenon, fueled by TikTok trends, a FIFA soundtrack placement, and a slow-burn resonance during the isolation of the pandemic. The hosts unpack the track’s hypnotic melodies, hip-hop-inspired production, and Dave Bayley’s vulnerable lyrics about loss and memory. They also dive into the band’s evolution, from earlier experimental sounds to the more personal storytelling on Dreamland and beyond, reflecting on how near-tragedy and resilience shaped their music. Along the way, Joe and Toby bring their signature mix of humor and insight — from stories about pickleball shorts and Johnny Depp’s unexpected cameo as the song’s first listener, to bigger conversations about why authenticity in music matters, the role of community, and how the best songs manage to capture both personal grief and universal connection. If you’ve ever had “Heat Waves” stuck in your head (and who hasn’t?), this episode takes you deeper into why the song lingers — not just as an earworm, but as a reminder of the bonds that carry us through. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby dive deep into the mysterious world of Sleep Token and their hauntingly beautiful track “Aqua Regia.” From masked identities and cult-like lore to genre-bending fusion of jazz chords, hip hop grooves, and metal intensity, the hosts unravel what makes this band so captivating. Joe introduces the track as a “gateway drug” into Sleep Token’s catalog, while Toby breaks down Vessel’s vocal range, harmonies, and the unexpected piano voicings that give the song its unique edge. Along the way, they explore themes of love, dissolution, and emotional alchemy hidden in the lyrics—and even imagine wild collaborations with Taylor Swift or Kendrick Lamar. As always, the conversation riffs beyond the music itself: into the power of mystery in art, how younger generations engage with music, and the surprising connections between listening habits, technology, and culture. Whether you’re already a devoted “worshipper” of Sleep Token or just curious about the buzz, this episode promises fresh insight, thoughtful laughs, and a few classic Toby rants. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Toby and Joe explore one of the most powerful tracks in recent hip hop memory: “The Birds Don’t Sing” by Clipse. This chronicle of lived experience is a song that delivers raw vulnerability, poetic lyricism, and emotional depth. They unpack the sibling synergy of Pusha T and Malice, reflect on how the song’s lyrics about loss, grief, and family resonate universally, and celebrate the grown-man energy that defines this track and the album as a whole. From production quirks and Pharrell’s bold choices to lyrical callbacks and real-life pain, Joe and Toby give this track the kind of careful, heartfelt analysis it deserves. They also explore the broader cultural implications of the album—from moving beyond coke rap to challenging stereotypes about Black fatherhood. The human experience is universal. Songs like these remind us why music matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe and Toby step into the funky vortex of the 90s to revisit Jamiroquai’s iconic hit "Virtual Insanity." From sliding sofas and wild hats to acid jazz breakdowns and ballet-inspired footwork, the duo dives deep into what made this track and its legendary video so unforgettable. Along the way, they unpack the legacy of acid jazz as the spiritual ancestor of lo-fi, the entertaining genius of Jay Kay, and the unsung heroics of bassist Stuart Zender. Plus: the not so well known interpolation of Jocelyn Brown, the influence of Stevie Wonder, a heartfelt ode to underrated basslines, and why OK Go treadmills may be the spiritual cousins of floating couches. And for those wondering what kind of check it would take to ditch the day job for an 8-album record deal, don’t worry, that math gets worked out too. Whether you're here for the history, the grooves, or the glorious weirdness of moving furniture, this episode’s got something for every music nerd. Disco ain't dead, and neither is acid jazz. Crazy times indeed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Riffs on Riffs we throw caution (and rhythm) to the wind as we dive into WALK THE MOON’s unstoppable earworm, “Shut Up and Dance.” From wedding reception dance floors to nostalgic 80s synthpop vibes, learn how a spur-of-the-moment lyric became a global indie-pop anthem. Join us as we reminisce about awkward dancefloor moments, wax poetic about college memories, and draw hilarious parallels between the song and Chasing Amy, Clerks, and yes—even The Breakfast Club. You'll learn how a night out in Echo Park turned into a platinum hit, why Kenyon College has a surprising music legacy, and what Sting's “Walking on the Moon” has to do with WALK THE MOON. Plus: indie pop’s mysterious disappearance, Spotify playlist rants, surprise shout-outs to Remy Wolf, U2, David Byrne, and even Will Smith’s not-so-welcome comeback. Listen in for a joyful, nostalgic, and surprisingly philosophical ride through one of the happiest songs of the 2010s. So… just shut up and press play. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Riffs on Riffs, Joe and Toby dive deep into the song 'Ordinary' by Alex Warren, exploring its themes, musical style, and the personal experiences that shaped it. They discuss Warren's journey from social media influencer to musician, the impact of personal trauma on songwriting, and the evolving landscape of the music industry in the age of social media. Learn about the subtle (and obvious) connections to Gospel music, why even famous artists have imposter syndrome, and what it means to be authentic in content creation. Riffs on Riffs is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Riffs on Riffs listeners get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/riffsonriffs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices