Riffs on Riffs

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