The Vinyl Curriculum
The Vinyl Curriculum is a music podcast where Logan and Jim explore a different theme or era in music history. Each episode, Jim plays songs from before Logan was born in an effort to introduce him—and listeners—to amazing tracks worth revisiting. Jim shares some background of each song, while Logan listens with fresh ears and gives each track a grade. Originally broadcast live on WRLA, Lewis University’s radio station, the podcast version includes the commentary—but only parts of the music (thanks, licensing rules). Follow the linked playlist in the show notes to hear the music for yourself!
Episodes
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, John Kilpatrick makes his second appearance on the show—and this time, he's taking us back to school!
In “Kilp Goes to College,” John brings a playlist packed with the music that soundtracked the years between graduating high school and heading off to college. From the songs that defined a new chapter of life to the artists that were on repeat during those college years, John takes Lo...
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim crank up the amps and head back to the garage with a playlist dedicated to the raw, energetic sound of Garage Rock. Joining them is special guest Mike Zegadlo, who brings a collection of songs celebrating the genre's stripped-down attitude and lasting influence.
From gritty guitar riffs and DIY recordings to the bands that helped shape rock music for decades to come, the trio explores wha...
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim dive into one of the fastest-growing genres in music: Corridos Tumbados. Joining them is special guest Maria, who introduces the guys to the artists, stories, and sound that have helped redefine modern regional Mexican music.
Featuring artists like Natanael Cano, Peso Pluma, Junior H, Neton Vega, and Eslabon Armado, the trio explores how Corridos Tumbados blends traditional corridos with ...
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, the bass is turned all the way up as Logan and Jim dive into the world of Crunk, Trap, and Party Rap. Joining them is a very special guest—Logan's fiancée, Nicole—who brings her own perspective (and a few favorite tracks) to the conversation.
From the club anthems that defined the 2000s to the trap beats that reshaped hip-hop, the trio explores the artists, songs, and cultural impact of the...
Another special guest joins Vinyl Curriculum as Karen takes over the playlist with a collection of songs centered around one thing: harmonies.
From beautifully layered vocals to unforgettable choruses, Karen shares the songs she believes showcase some of the greatest harmonies in music. Jim is right at home with the selections...but Logan? Let's just say this playlist wasn't exactly in his wheelhouse.
Will Karen win Logan over, or wi...
It's a family affair on this special edition of Vinyl Curriculum! Logan welcomes his dad, Mike, to the podcast for an episode built around a playlist of songs tied to concerts he's attended throughout his life...or has he?
As Logan and Jim put Mike's concert memories to the test, they swap stories, revisit legendary artists, and uncover a few surprises along the way. Can Mike remember every show he's actually been to, or will a few ...
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim head down the back roads to explore the world of Alternative Country. Blending the storytelling roots of traditional country with the grit and attitude of rock, Alt Country has carved out its own unique place in American music.From pioneering artists and influential albums to modern favorites, the guys discuss what separates Alt Country from mainstream country, how the genre evolved, and...
On this episode of Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim explore The Great American Songbook—the collection of timeless standards that helped shape American music for generations.
From legendary songwriters and unforgettable melodies to the iconic performers who brought these classics to life, the guys discuss what defines the Songbook and why its influence can still be heard across popular music today. Along the way, they share som...
This week on The Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim step outside the traditional playlist and into the world of musical theater, diving into Dear Evan Hansen. Joined by special guest John, the guys break down the music, themes, and emotional impact of the show after all three experienced it live at Paramount Theatre.
From powerful ballads to the way the story connects through its soundtrack, the conversation explores what makes Dear Ev...
This week on The Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim explore what happens when artists step out on their own. Joined by special guest George, the class takes a look at musicians who made the leap from band life to solo success—whether by choice, circumstance, or creative difference.
From bold reinventions to familiar sounds with a new voice, the group breaks down what it really means to “go solo.” Which artists thrived...
This week on The Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim crank the volume and head back to the 1970s for a deep dive into hard rock. Joining the class is special guest Mackenzie, bringing fresh perspective to an era defined by heavy riffs, powerhouse vocals, and larger-than-life energy.
From arena anthems to guitar-driven classics, the group breaks down what makes 70s hard rock so timeless—and which tracks truly earn a spot in the cur...
This week on The Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim turn the clock back to the era of flannel, distortion pedals, and some of the most iconic alternative music of the 1990s. Joining the class is special guest Reid, one of Logan’s longtime friends—and a certified Blink-182 superfan.
The trio dives into the sound that defined a generation, from grunge influences to the pop-punk explosion that helped bring alternative rock int...
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim take a trip back to the 1970s to explore the world of folk music — acoustic guitars, thoughtful lyrics, and the artists who helped define the era.
Joining the conversation is special guest Kevin, who helps guide the discussion through some of the standout sounds of the decade. But not everyone in the room is fully on board… Logan quickly makes it known that 70’s folk mi...
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim turn the lights down and the volume up for Episode 25: “The Club.” We’re stepping into the world of club dance music — the beats, the drops, the anthems that fill the floor and keep it moving all night long.
Joining the guys is special guest Grace — Jim’s daughter — bringing a fresh perspective (and probably better dance instincts) to the mix. Fro...
This week on Vinyl Curriculum, Logan and Jim drop the needle on Empty Glass and break down one of rock’s most personal and powerful solo albums. From raw lyricism to bold production choices, they explore what makes this record stand out and how it reflects a turning point artistically and emotionally. Joining the conversation is special guest reviewer Jenna, who brings her own perspective, favorite tracks, and hot takes to th...
Season 2 of Vinyl Curriculum kicks off with a new sound and a new voice 🎶
Logan and Jim dive into the world of New Wave, breaking down the synths, style, and swagger that defined an era. And for the first time ever, the show welcomes a special guest — Jim’s son, Trey — bringing a fresh perspective to the conversation.
From iconic bands to underrated tracks, the guys explore what makes New Wave distinct, why it stil...
It’s the Vinyl Curriculum year wrap-up 🎶 Logan and Jim look back on the highs and lows of the year in music, revisiting some of their favorite songs, cringing at a few of the worst picks, and breaking down their music app wraps to see what they actually listened to all year long. From surprising standouts to questionable skips, this episode puts a bow on the year and sets the tone for what’s next on Vinyl Curriculum.#V...
It’s the Vinyl Curriculum year wrap-up 🎶 Logan and Jim look back on the highs and lows of the year in music, revisiting some of their favorite songs, cringing at a few of the worst picks, and breaking down their music app wraps to see what they actually listened to all year long. From surprising standouts to questionable skips, this episode puts a bow on the year and sets the tone for what’s next on Vinyl Curriculum.#V...
Vinyl Curriculum celebrates the season with its first-ever Holiday Special. In this episode, Logan and Jim step away from the usual artist-focused format and review some of Jim’s favorite holiday songs, breaking down the music, memories, and meaning behind each track. From timeless Christmas classics to personal favorites, it’s a festive conversation filled with nostalgia, vinyl, and holiday spirit.
Want to listen to the...
Season 1 wraps up with a full tank of soul and a dash of chaos! 🚗💨 Logan gets a second shot at picking the tunes—this time, the Blues Brothers soundtrack—while Jim grabs the clipboard to do the grading. Will Logan redeem himself, or crash and burn in a cloud of rhythm and blues? 🎷
Want to listen to the playlist?
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