Trimming The Musical Fat

Stephen Nicholson
  • 1.0 (1)
  • Music Commentary

Think some albums are too long? Us too! Don’t worry! We can do something about it. Join us as we critique albums from artists we love and edit them down to under 50 minutes. Can we make a good album a great one? Can we make an average album a good one? What songs will we pick? What will we drop? Will we include B-sides? Join us and our guests as we take the journey to Trim The Musical Fat! Podcast website - www.trimmingthemusicalfat.com

  1. Jul 18

    195. Upside Without the Excess: Trimming Soundgarden’s ‘Down on the Upside’ (1996)

    In this episode, Stephen is joined by best friend and fellow Soundgarden fan Bryan Borthwick for a deep dive into the band’s 1996 album Down on the Upside — a record both of them bought on release week, and both found… well… a bit disappointing after the towering brilliance of Superunknown. Stephen and Bryan rewind the clock to the early 90s, sharing memories of seeing Soundgarden live in 1992 when they supported Guns N’ Roses at Gateshead Stadium — a show that cemented their admiration for the band and set expectations sky‑high for their Badmotorfinger follow-up. Across the episode, they critique Down on the Upside with the benefit of hindsight, exploring what works, what drags, and why the album felt so different from its predecessor. Along the way, they share song information, band tensions, chart facts, and behind‑the‑scenes details from the era. And of course, they take on the main challenge: trimming the album down to under 50 minutes — carving out a tighter, more powerful version of Soundgarden’s most sprawling release. If you’re a fan of the band, the era, or the art of album‑reimagining, this is a must‑listen. Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    195. Upside Without the Excess: Trimming Soundgarden’s ‘Down on the Upside’ (1996)

  2. May 10

    194. Prince's 'Purple Rain' (1984): The Singles 1978 - 1989

    It’s been a while!  Life gets in the way. Travel, work & launching a new podcast (Sheer Pod Attack: A Queen Song-By-Song Podcast), have made me ‘time poor’ these last few months.  But we’re back, with another episode of our Prince side-series, this time focussing on the singles from Prince’s most famous, biggest selling album - PURPLE RAIN.  Home to its iconic title track, When Doves Cry, Let’s Go Crazy, and I Would Die 4U. What do I think of them and the album as a while? Listen to find out.  And I’m delighted to have a guest contributor: Eric Paul Johnson, co-host of the excellent Face The Music: An Electric Light Orchestra Song-By-Song Podcast). Eric shares his thoughts on I Would Did 4U & Take Me With You.  Are you a fan of the Purple Rain album? What’s your favourite track from it? Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    194. Prince's 'Purple Rain' (1984): The Singles 1978 - 1989

  3. Mar 8

    193. The Beatles - The White Album: Our Definitive Single LP (1968)

    The Beatles’ White Album is a sprawling masterpiece — 30 tracks of brilliance, indulgence, experimentation, and occasional chaos. But what if it had been a single LP? In this episode, we take on the ultimate trimming challenge: cutting the White Album down to a tight, cohesive 14-track record. Join us as we debate what stays, what goes, and what defines the essence of this iconic release. Expect passionate arguments, surprising omissions, and a few controversial cuts. We also explore: • The album’s fractured recording sessions and solo-driven nature • George Martin’s original vision for a leaner tracklist • Fan-favourite deep cuts vs. undeniable classics Whether you think “Revolution 9” is genius or madness, this is your chance to hear The White Album reimagined — trimmed, tightened, and totally TTMF. Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    193. The Beatles - The White Album: Our Definitive Single LP (1968)

  4. Mar 2

    192. Saints, Sinners & Synths: The Hidden Gem of Madonna’s MDNA - ‘I’m a Sinner’ (2012)

    Episode Description Hop aboard the MDNA express as we uncover one of Madonna’s most overlooked gems — “I’m a Sinner.” In this episode of Trimming The Musical Fat: Hidden Prime Cuts, we dive deep into the psychedelic swirl of spiritual rebellion, gospel grooves, and retro synths that make this track a standout moment on her 2012 album. Is it a cheeky sequel to “Like a Prayer”? A sonic pilgrimage through pop, funk, and faith? Or just Madonna having fun with saints and sinners on a train to nowhere? We explore the song’s lyrical layers, sonic textures, and its place in the Queen of Pop’s vast discography. Plus: why it deserved single treatment, how it channels 60s psychedelia, and what makes it a prime cut worth rediscovering. Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    192. Saints, Sinners & Synths: The Hidden Gem of Madonna’s MDNA - ‘I’m a Sinner’ (2012)

  5. Feb 6

    191. Prince's 'Controversy' (1981): The Singles 1978 - 1989

    Join host Stephen Nicholson and his special guest Marv Quibell, as they explore Prince's fourth studio album, Controversy, which marked a pivotal moment in his career with innovative sounds, social commentary, and bold artistic choices. From the introverted genius behind the scenes to the cultural icon, we unpack what makes this record a fascinating transition in his discography. ​- The background and historical context of Controversy​ - Detailed analysis of the four singles: "Controversy," "Sexuality," "Let's Work," and "Do Me Baby"​ - The evolution of Prince's musical style, technology, and lyrical themes​ - The role of the Revolution and band dynamics in his creative process​ - The album’s critical reception and legacy Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    191. Prince's 'Controversy' (1981): The Singles 1978 - 1989

  6. Jan 23

    190. 90 from the 90s: Dido’s ‘No Angel’ (1999)

    Join host Stephen Nicholson as he dives into one of the most quietly iconic albums of the late ’90s—Dido’s debut album, No Angel. Released in 1999, this folktronica-infused gem blended ethereal vocals with trip-hop textures, launching Dido into global stardom. Learn about Dido & No Angel as Stephen picks his favourite 3 tracks from the album. Whether you’re rediscovering No Angel or hearing it for the first time, this episode offers a heartfelt tribute to one of the 90s’ most enduring albums. Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    190. 90 from the 90s: Dido’s ‘No Angel’ (1999)

  7. Jan 11

    189. Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Nebraska’ Reimagined: The 50-minute Challenge

    Summary In this episode of 'Trimming the Musical Fat,' host Stephen Nicholson and guests Davie Melon and Renee James delve into Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album 'Nebraska.' The conversation explores the album's stark acoustic style, its storytelling depth, and the contrasting opinions of the guests. The discussion also covers the expanded edition of 'Nebraska,' featuring electric versions of the songs, and the guests curate a tracklist for the album, reflecting on the emotional impact of Springsteen's music. Renee also shares her recent experience hosting at the Bruce Springsteen Symposium for the ‘Born to Run’ album, highlighting the insights gained from the event. Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    189. Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Nebraska’ Reimagined: The 50-minute Challenge

  8. Jan 1

    188. Hidden Prime Cuts: R.E.M.'s Fretless (1991)

    Join host Stephen Nicholson and his guest Davie Melon on "Trimming the Musical Fat" as they dive into the hidden gems of the music world. In this episode, they explore one of the lesser-known tracks from Athens' finest, R.E.M., and their great 1991 track - 'Fretless'. Tune in for a nostalgic journey through the 90s music scene, filled with insightful commentary and passionate discussion. Like the podcast? Why not show your appreciation by buying Stephen a coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com Podcast website - trimmingthemusicalfat.com / Email us - trimthemusicalfat@gmail.com / Join our Facebook group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/274805337346926 / Check out our YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm_P5WlRZ0i3tR3jEavD_5A / Bluesky - @ttmfpodcast.bsky.social

    188. Hidden Prime Cuts: R.E.M.'s Fretless (1991)
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About

Think some albums are too long? Us too! Don’t worry! We can do something about it. Join us as we critique albums from artists we love and edit them down to under 50 minutes. Can we make a good album a great one? Can we make an average album a good one? What songs will we pick? What will we drop? Will we include B-sides? Join us and our guests as we take the journey to Trim The Musical Fat! Podcast website - www.trimmingthemusicalfat.com

Information

  • Creator
    Stephen Nicholson
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    197
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Stephen Nicholson
  • Show Website
    Trimming The Musical Fat

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