In this episode of The New Dad Rock, we dive into the electrifying year of 1988, where the worlds of metal, rock, and synth-pop collided in unexpected ways. We explore the rise of concept albums like Queensrÿche’s Operation: Mindcrime and King Diamond’s Them, which pushed the boundaries of storytelling in metal.
The Big Four of thrash metal—Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax—dominated with releases like ...And Justice for All, South of Heaven, So Far, So Good... So What!, and State of Euphoria. Meanwhile, the second tier of thrash, including bands like Testament, Overkill, and Death Angel, delivered powerful albums that kept the genre’s momentum going.
Synths still reigned supreme in the pop world with bands like Depeche Mode, New Order, and Yaz. At the same time, they began to influence industrial music, leading to groundbreaking releases from Ministry and Skinny Puppy. We also revisit R.E.M.’s Green, which marked a shift in the band’s sound and solidified their place in the alt-rock pantheon.
From the massive success of Def Leppard’s Hysteria to the Monsters of Rock Tour, 1988 was a year where genres collided, new sounds emerged, and nothing was shocking, though Donnie Darko and Fishbone were certainly a bit out there.
Join us as we reminisce about the music that defined 1988 and still resonates with us today.
Did you know that The New Dad Rock has swag? Coffee mugs, pillow and t-shirts in a multitude of colors and arm lengths.
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Intentionally Disturbing
Join me on this podcast as I navigate the murky waters of human behavior, current events, and personal anecdotes through in-depth interviews with incredible people—all served with a generous helping of sarcasm and satire. After years as a forensic and clinical psychologist, I offer a unique interview style and a low tolerance for bullshit, quickly steering conversations toward depth and darkness. I honor the seriousness while also appreciating wit. I’m your guide through the twisted labyrinth of the human psyche, armed with dark humor and biting wit.