Podcast Summary: The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers – Episode 157: Joy Division - Closer with Matt Pinfield
Release Date: June 4, 2025
Host: Josh Adam Meyers
Guest: Matt Pinfield
Introduction
In Episode 157 of The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers, host Josh Adam Meyers delves deep into Joy Division's seminal album Closer, with special guest Matt Pinfield. This episode not only explores the intricate layers of the album but also intertwines personal narratives that highlight the resilience and enduring legacy of both the band and its members.
Exploring "Closer" by Joy Division
The episode kicks off with an analysis of Joy Division's opening track, "Closer," setting the stage for a comprehensive discussion about the album's impact and musicality.
"That is the opening track by Joy Division from their 1980 album Closer. It's also number 157 out of 500 on the 500 with Josh Adam Meyers what's up party people?"
– Morty Coyle [02:47]
Matt Pinfield brings his expertise to dissect the nuances of "Closer," emphasizing its significance in Joy Division's discography and its influence on the post-punk genre.
"It's something that definitely deserves your time to at least listen to it once and listen to a band that was literally, I really believe, like, every single stroke of a band like that."
– Josh Adam Myers [72:09]
Personal Journeys and Overcoming Adversity
A poignant segment of the episode is dedicated to Matt Pinfield's personal journey, particularly his battle with a massive stroke. Matt shares his harrowing experience, detailing the moments leading up to the stroke, his time in the hospital, and the overwhelming support from friends and the music community.
"I was helping him with something, you know, like, helping him, like, do some technical thing. And so I was at his house and I said, dude, I don't feel good, man."
– Josh Adam Myers [08:38]
Matt recounts waking up from a two-month coma, reflecting on the uncertainty of life and the emotional toll it took on his loved ones.
"When I did wake up, I know I was doing. My friend brought his guitar and we did Crybaby Cry by the Beatles."
– Josh Adam Myers [40:54]
The hosts express admiration for Matt's resilience and determination to return to his passion for music and broadcasting despite the challenges.
"You are the strongest dude I know, man."
– Jeremiah Watkins [43:25]
The Enduring Legacy of Joy Division
The conversation shifts back to the musical influence of Joy Division and their transition into New Order. The hosts discuss how Joy Division's dark, emotive sound paved the way for future genres and inspired countless artists.
"Every aspect of what Joy Division are is so important. The whole post punk era, it was."
– Josh Adam Myers [22:45]
Matt Pinfield highlights specific bands like The Chameleons, The Sound, and The Comsat Angels as direct descendants of Joy Division's innovative sound, underscoring the band's lasting impact on the music industry.
"Peter Hook was another guy who reached out, which in Joy Division and New Order, which was great."
– Josh Adam Myers [65:22]
Influence on Modern Music and Covers
The episode also touches upon modern interpretations and covers of Joy Division's work, showcasing how their music continues to resonate with artists today.
"They played a year ago this past weekend and I opened for them DJing on stage playing All Vines."
– Josh Adam Myers [24:12]
Matt Pinfield discusses how bands like Nine Inch Nails have honored Joy Division, bridging the gap between generations of music lovers.
"Nine Inch Nails Cover that, which was, you know, written around that same time."
– Jeremiah Watkins [70:49]
Community and Support
Towards the end of the episode, Josh shares the overwhelming support he received from the music community during his recovery, emphasizing the tight-knit nature of the industry.
"The outpouring was amazing. And speaking of which, Peter Hook was another guy who reached out, which from. From Joy Division and New Order, which was, which was great."
– Josh Adam Myers [66:39]
Matt Pinfield expresses gratitude for the continued love and support from fans and fellow musicians, reinforcing the theme of community resilience.
"We love you, buddy."
– Morty Coyle [66:42]
Conclusion and Looking Forward
As the episode wraps up, the hosts and Matt reflect on the profound influence of Joy Division's "Closer" and the personal journeys that intertwine with their musical legacy. They hint at future discussions, maintaining the podcast's commitment to exploring the depth of influential albums and the stories behind them.
"Next week it's Paul's Boutique week as we go deep into the Beastie Boys Paul's Boutique."
– Josh Adam Myers [75:12]
Notable Quotes
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"I felt like I could say this on the two, because it's not a knock, because I'd rather have you here anyway, Matt, as a friend."
– Morty Coyle [12:32] -
"It's like. It's almost like Steve Jones teaching himself how to play guitar. It's out of necessity, you know what I mean?"
– Josh Adam Myers [56:33] -
"You are the strongest dude I know, man."
– Jeremiah Watkins [43:25]
Final Thoughts
Episode 157 of The 500 with Josh Adam Meyers masterfully blends music analysis with heartfelt personal storytelling. Through Matt Pinfield's resilience and the enduring legacy of Joy Division, listeners are offered both an in-depth appreciation of a pivotal album and an inspiring testament to overcoming life's adversities. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to Joy Division, this episode provides a rich, engaging exploration of music's power to heal and inspire.