Never Ending Stories Podcast: Episode NES 028 - TOAD'S REVENGE

Release Date: January 22, 2025
Hosts: Ian, Evan, Steve
Description: Dive deep into the intricate world of Bob Dylan and his legendary performances. In this episode, the hosts explore the infamous 1990 performance at Toad's Place, debunk recent rumors about new albums, engage with listener feedback, and dissect the unique vibe that made this show unforgettable.

1. Introduction and Episode Overview

Timestamp: [00:56 - 02:48]

• Ian welcomes listeners to the latest episode, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to previous discussions.

  "We are returning to the scene of the crime for the thrilling conclusion to the journey started several months ago here." ([00:58])

• The focus is on Bob Dylan’s performance at Toad's Place in New Haven, Connecticut, dated January 12, 1990. The hosts express anticipation for delving deep into this historic show.

2. Bob Dylan Album Rumors Debunked

Timestamp: [02:48 - 05:45]

• Ian brings up circulating rumors about a new Bob Dylan record, speculating on its nature—ranging from Grateful Dead covers to new studio material.

  "Everyone seems to think there's a new fucking record coming out in the next four to six weeks or something." ([02:48])

• Steve shares insights from a reliable source who unequivocally denies any imminent album releases within the next four months.

  "He said there is no way that there is an album coming out in 2024." ([03:41])

• The hosts express mixed feelings, balancing skepticism with hope, while Evan introduces the possibility that future announcements might still unfold.

  "But, like, with Bob Dylan, who knows, we can't predict what he's going to do." ([04:44])

3. Listener Poll and 2023 Recap

Timestamp: [10:29 - 15:17]

• Ian discusses the results of a listener poll conducted to gather feedback on favorite Bob Dylan shows from the past year.

• Top Five Highlights:

  1. Number 5: Steve’s pick - Infamous Berkeley, California, 2002 show.
  2. Number 4: 2014 Tokyo, Japan performance.
  3. Number 3: Spokane, Washington, 2001 show post Love and Theft.
  4. Number 2: Los Angeles, California, December 1997.
  5. Number 1: Palo Alto, California, October 19, 2014.

• Steve humorously chides Ian for not ranking his favorite show higher, leading to playful banter about their differing opinions.

  "Number one was the same number one that basically all of us had." ([13:24])

• The discussion also touches on lesser-ranked shows, emphasizing that even lower-ranked performances have unique qualities contributing to the podcast's rich tapestry.

4. Deep Dive into the Toad's Place 1990 Performance

a. Vibe vs. Music: A Vibe Show

Timestamp: [35:11 - 37:25]

• The hosts debate whether the Toad's Place show should be categorized more as a "vibe show" rather than a strictly musical performance.

  "This is an amazing text that we have here... It's a vibe show more than a music show." ([02:05])

• Steve elaborates that while individual song performances might not stand out in a traditional playlist, the overall atmosphere and experience of the show make it exceptional.

  "But in the context of the show, it totally works." ([36:23])

b. Song Selection and Covers

Timestamp: [37:25 - 48:47]

• The conversation delves into the eclectic mix of songs performed, including several covers that added a unique flavor to the show.

• Steve highlights specific covers like Bruce Springsteen’s "Dancing in the Dark," noting Bob Dylan’s unconventional rendition.

  "That is the one and only time ever Bob has covered Bruce Springsteen live." ([48:39])

• Evan and Ian discuss the spontaneity of song requests from the audience, leading to unexpected and memorable performances.

  "It's just a series of syllables that bear some passing resemblance to words." ([50:12])

c. Highlights and Grievances

Timestamp: [37:25 - 65:18]

• Ian, Evan, and Steve share their favorite moments from the Toad's Place show, such as:

  • "I Heard that Lonesome Whistle Blow" – praised for its unique rendition and lively performance. ([44:48])

  • "Congratulations" – admired for its stripped-down and raw interpretation. ([47:11])

  • "Where Teardrops Fall" – highlighted as an all-time favorite with emotional depth. ([58:15])

• Grievances include instances where Bob Dylan forgot lyrics or improvisational moments didn’t land as intended, yet these moments contribute to the authentic vibe of the show.

  "He is barely conscious during the performance of this song." ([68:15])

d. Bootleg Titles Suggestions

Timestamp: [72:22 - 76:42]

• The hosts brainstorm creative bootleg titles based on song performances and unique aspects of the Toad's Place show. Examples include:

  • "Tight Connection to My Toad"
  • "Contogulations"
  • "Maggie’s Toad"

e. Host Rankings and Categories

Timestamp: [37:25 - 80:56]

• The trio categorizes moments from the show into segments like "Pretty Good Stuff" and "All Mercy," evaluating each performance's impact and quality.

• Steve assigns ratings based on vibe and musicality, emphasizing the significance of the overall experience over individual song perfection.

  "Three stars for Vibe, one star for music, two stars overall." ([80:55])

f. The Role of the Band and Audience Interaction

Timestamp: [77:29 - 81:59]

• Evan commends drummer Christopher Parker for his stamina and adaptability during the lengthy performance, highlighting the band's crucial role in maintaining the show's energy.

  "Anyone who can play drums to this many songs that he probably had never played before... deserves a nod of the head." ([77:56])

• Steve praises the audience’s enthusiasm, attributing the vibrant atmosphere to the crowd's active participation and support.

  "How much did people pay to get in the door here? And then they get four hours of Bob Dylan up there." ([78:19])

5. Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

Timestamp: [81:56 - End]

• The hosts reflect on the extensive discussion, acknowledging the depth and length of their analysis compared to the original four and a half-hour performance.

  "Collectively. So, you know, we couldn't even make it the total length that Bob and the band did this night 34 years ago." ([81:27])

• Evan and Ian express their admiration for the show's unique place in Bob Dylan's career, emphasizing its blend of chaotic energy and memorable performances.

• Steve nods to the crew and the enduring legacy of such legendary shows.

  "Thanks, Bob. Thanks, Toads." ([81:59])

• The episode wraps up with a humorous sign-off, hinting at future episodes that will continue to explore the rich history of Bob Dylan's performances.

  "See you in the hot tub." ([81:59])

Notable Quotes:

• "This show is worth more than the sum of its parts." — Steve ([37:25])

• "It's about what sparks joy." — Evan ([42:50])

• "You can't start a fire with just one spark." — Steve ([53:35])

• "It's a good thing to do. It seems like an act of generosity." — Evan ([52:20])

Key Takeaways:

• The Toad's Place 1990 performance stands out not for flawless musical execution but for its unparalleled vibe and the raw, unfiltered interaction between Bob Dylan, his band, and the audience.

• Despite occasional musical missteps, the show exemplifies the magic of live performances where the atmosphere and spontaneity create lasting memories.

• Listener engagement remains a cornerstone of the podcast, with polls and feedback shaping ongoing discussions and analyses.

• The hosts maintain a balance between critical analysis and appreciation for the unique aspects that make each Bob Dylan show a subject of fascination.

Upcoming Episodes:

• Exploration of lesser-discussed Bob Dylan performances and their impact on his musical legacy.

• Special bonus episode featuring Benny Boy from Expecting Rain discussing the resurgence of "Idiot Wind" performances.

• Deep dives into specific songs from Bob Dylan’s repertoire, analyzing live renditions and their evolution over time.

Stay tuned for more insights and stories from the never-ending journey through Bob Dylan’s storied career on the Never Ending Stories podcast.