My Old CD Mix: Time Capsule

A time capsule find. Lost gems? Maybe. Also new music on my weekly new music radio show. Next week 1053.

This week?

• Music Question: 8 Underrated Bands to Rediscovered.

• Next: My weekly new music radio show. Week 1053.

• Musical Thoughts.

I was digging through a box in my office space the other day and hit a goldmine - A massive holder case of old, sharpie-labeled mix CDs. Reading the playlist was a trip. A time capsule of exactly where my head was at back then. But going through them, I noticed something fascinating about how music ages. Some tracks come on and you realize they’ve completely woven themselves into the cultural fabric. Other bands have kinda been lost to the cracks of time. And some don’t even stay in my cultural fabric. It was quite a trip.

What a trip down memory lane. Another interesting reminder that jumped out at me while spinning this disc was the forgotten art of the CD hidden track. Remember those? Back in the day, finding a secret song buried after minutes of dead silence was the ultimate musical treat. I loved the concept so much that I started building my own hidden tracks into these mixes - purposefully leaving the last song entirely off the tracklist. A surprise.

Usually, my secret closer of choice was something from The Muppets. “Rainbow Connection” made the cut a lot. “Movin’ Right Along” definitely found its way onto quite a few playlists. But on this specific mix? The secret prize at the end of the line was Dr. Teeth and The Electric Mayhem blasting through “Can You Picture That?”. It’s the perfect, joyful exclamation point to leave you grinning after the music fades.

Ok back to the topic on hand.

On this particular disc, I found R.E.M., The Police, Def Leppard, Living Colour, U2, Judas Priest, Ozzy, Van Halen, Lucinda Williams, and Tom Waits. Those artists don’t need my help—most people know exactly who they are and where to find them. Instead, my eyes locked onto the names squeezed between the heavy hitters. I think it’s time to go through these old mixes and shine a light on the music that the mainstream (or myself) left behind. I sense a part 2. Or 3.

There are a few bands on here that I still spin regularly and others that gave me a sudden, urgent jolt to go back and listen to them again very soon. Then, there are a few bands where I’m honestly not sure I’ve listened to them a single time since I first burned this disc. It is a beautifully crazy mix.

Here are 8 bands that might deserve a permanent spot back in your rotation:

Teenage Fanclub

The Vibe: The ultimate sonic warm blanket—sun-drenched harmonies wrapped in crunchy, distorted guitars.

Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~185,000

Scottish alternative icons Teenage Fanclub delivered absolute pop-rock perfection with their melodic 1991 masterpiece Bandwagonesque. Their gorgeous vocal harmonies and infectious hooks earned critical adoration but missed mainstream chart domination. They chose a different path, becoming one of indie music’s most treasured underground acts.

Bandwagonesque is famously the album that was named Spin magazine’s best record of 1991—beating out both Nirvana’s Nevermind and R.E.M.’s Out of Time. More so than any of that, though, it’s a record that feels like an old friend from the very first listen. The chiming guitars and simple yet perfectly descriptive lyrics create the ultimate comfort music. Yet, this tag shouldn’t undermine its raw energy. Borrowing heavily from 60s and 70s jangle-pop pioneers like The Byrds and Big Star, there’s a wonderful grit to it that sounds fresh today.

“When I hear them, I hear a band that completely understands the joy of a perfect pop hook. They are magnificent.” — Liam Gallagher (Oasis)

Junkyard

The Vibe: Raw, whiskey-soaked punk-meets-Southern-rock swagger.

Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~23,000

Sleazy rock group Junkyard brought a unique, rootsy twang to the late-eighties Southern California music scene. They earned steady television rotation on MTV, but their gritty authenticity never fully crossed over into mainstream arena status. Their incredibly loyal following keeps the legacy of this authentic, hard-rocking outfit alive today. They didn’t wear the hairspray or play the games—they just brought pure, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll.

“Junkyard was the real deal. No gimmicks, just great, dirty rock songs with a bit of country dirt under the fingernails.” — Slash (Guns N’ Roses)

Hey Mercedes

The Vibe: Brainy, incredibly catchy emo/alternative rock driven by soaring melodies.

Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~23,000

Alternative outfit Hey Mercedes delivered incredibly smart, melodic songwriting on their polished 2001 debut album, Everynight Firefighter. Rising from the ashes of the seminal indie band Braid, they seemed destined for the early-2000s alt-rock boom. Unfortunately, significant legal delays involving their record label completely stalled their momentum. The beautifully crafted project missed its crucial window of opportunity, leaving indie fans wondering what could have been.

“Hey Mercedes wrote the kind of hooks that stay stuck in your head for weeks. They perfectly balanced urgency with pop sensibility.” — Chris Carrabba (Dashboard Confessional)

Dramarama

• The Vibe: High-emotion punk-pop storytelling with biting wit and unforgettable choruses.

• Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~125,000

Alternative rock group Dramarama showcased incredible emotional depth through clever storytelling and unique vocal performances. While many know them for the iconic alt-rock anthem “Anything, Anything (I’ll Give You)”, their finest full-length material debuted just before a major label transition disrupted their career momentum. They didn’t stop, though; their 2020 release Up To Here proved they haven’t lost a step, packing the same classic punk energy and cinematic lyrics. Their incredibly devoted following continues to celebrate a brilliant discography that deserved a much larger global platform.

“John Easdale is one of the most underrated lyricists in American rock. ‘Anything, Anything’ is a masterpiece, but the whole catalog is brilliant.” — Rodney Bingenheimer (Legendary KROQ DJ)

Clem Snide

• The Vibe: Quirky, bittersweet, deeply moving indie-folk with a dark sense of humor.

• Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~53,000

Led by the brilliant Eef Barzelay. Indie rock ensemble Clem Snide crafted quietly beautiful music that eventually landed them a major television theme song (for NBC’s Ed). Their 2006 album Hungry Bird was packed with understated alternative gems, showcasing an unmatched ability to find beauty in life’s weirdest corners. Despite their immense artistic achievements, wide commercial recognition eluded this profoundly clever and deeply moving musical project.

“Eef Barzelay writes songs that make you want to laugh and cry at the exact same time. There’s a beautiful, fragile honesty to Clem Snide.” — Ben Folds

Michael Penn

• The Vibe: Intellectual, intricately arranged pop-rock for the discerning listener.

• Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~73,000

Singer-songwriter Michael Penn earned massive critical acclaim early in his career—even winning an MTV VMA for Best New Artist in 1990 for his hit “No Myth.” However, industry indifference and changing mainstream tastes slowed his commercial momentum. He left behind a brilliant catalog of intellectual, melodic pop songs. Penn’s incredible gift for intricate lyricism and lush, Beatles-esque arrangements remains highly praised by music lovers worldwide, and he has since transitioned into an acclaimed film score composer.

“Michael is a songwriter’s songwriter. His chord progressions and lyrical twists are a brilliant study in pop architecture.” — Aimee Mann

Bang Tango

• The Vibe: Funk-infused, dark-edged sleaze rock that makes you want to move.

• Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~37,000

Their gritty, groove-oriented hard rock debut Psycho Cafe (1989) should have had mass appeal. Unfortunately, their label didn’t quite know how to market their unique, bass-heavy style, ultimately dropping the ball entirely. By the time their gothic-leaning sophomore album arrived, the musical landscape had shifted drastically to grunge, and their fanbase scattered. Tracks like “Someone Like You” and “Breaking Up A Heart of Stone” featured slap-bass grooves and a gothic funk energy that deserved far more ears.

“Bang Tango had a groove that most hair metal bands could only dream of. They were funky, heavy, and totally ahead of their time.” — Metal Sludge Archives

Salty Dog

• The Vibe: Thunderous, blues-soaked traditional hard rock with zero compromise.

• Spotify Monthly Listeners: ~7,000

Hard rock band Salty Dog possessed incredible musicianship and a punishing rhythm section, put on full display on their 1990 debut Every Dog Has Its Day. They mixed aggressive, Zeppelin-esque blues riffs with pristine vocal arrangements. Unfortunately, a distinct lack of promotional support buried the album in bargain bins before audiences could discover it. Their immense talent remains a closely guarded secret among traditional rock aficionados who appreciate raw, unfiltered power.

“If you want to hear a band that completely laid it all out on a single record, find Salty Dog. That rhythm section was an absolute freight train.” — Eddie Trunk (Radio Host / Music Historian)

One of the best parts of being a music fan is digging past the surface to find the records that speak directly to you. Untouched by the hype machine. Do your ears a favor this week: pick one of these bands, put on your good headphones, and dive into a discography that has been waiting to be rediscovered.

This is week 1053 of NEXT. We are back on the hunt for the tracks that shake things up and cut right through the noise.

The goal remains exactly the same: finding you a new favorite song every single week. Huge thanks to all of you out there for supporting and listening to new music. Music is life, plain and simple. Crank the speakers - Let’s start the discovery.

Beabadoobee – “Sun Has Set”

A track that clocks in at just two minutes and twenty-one seconds—and it wastes zero time. Within the first ten seconds, you get this massive blast of thrashing guitars and pure angst. It is so refreshing to hear her sway back to her heavy roots here. It’s sharper, snappier, and carries this brilliant, loud resentment that channels some serious Jagged Little Pill energy. Sounds like: Paramore and Alanis Morissette

Chris Cornell – “Billie Jean (Expanded Intro)”

We are diving into a jaw-dropping piece of rock history with this special version. By stretching out the opening, it builds a massive, haunting tension that lets his legendary vocal performance hit your chest with even more raw, emotional power. Sounds like: Temple of the Dog and Jeff Buckley.

Pixies – “Wave of Mutilation (UK Surf 2026 Mix)”

The undisputed masters of alternative rock are back, breathing fresh, cinematic life into one of their absolute finest moments. This updated mix slows the pace down, letting those surf-rock guitars wash over the room in a heavy, hypnotic wave. Sounds like: The Breeders and Sonic Youth.

Josh Joplin Group – “Camera One (Silver Anniversary Edition)”

Hard to believe it’s been twenty-five years since this brilliant slice of intelligent indie-pop first hit our speakers. This anniversary edition sharpens every hook and reminds you exactly why this track’s brilliant lyrical wit stands the test of time. Sounds like: Counting Crows and Toad the Wet Sprocket.

Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers – “Breakdown (2026 Mix Extended Version)”

We are opening up the vault for a stunning, elongated look at a pure rhythmic cool. This brand-new extended mix lets that iconic, sultry bassline stretch its legs, giving the whole band room to breathe in a smoky, late-night groove. Sounds like: Bruce Springsteen and Fleetwood Mac.

Bryan Adams – “51st State”

Next up, Canadian rock icon Bryan Adams is back, and he is pushing straight back against the political noise with a brand-new track. a tight, high-energy blast of straight-ahead guitar rock that hits the ground running. Written specifically to celebrate Canadian identity and completely reject the bizarre political rhetoric about America annexing our neighbors to the north. Sounds like: Tom Petty and John Mellencamp.

Dinosaur Jr. – “Several Got Away”

Get ready for a fantastic, high-voltage distorted guitar glory. It pairs a relentless, wall-of-fuzz alternative energy with that signature, melodic slacker-rock vocal that feels completely timeless. Sounds like:Hüsker Dü and Pavement.

Nicole Atkins – “When The Night Falls”

Cinematic, late-night alternative soul. It glides out of the speakers with lush, vintage orchestration and a soaring, sweeping vocal performance that will send a chill straight down your spine. Sounds like: Roy Orbison and Lana Del Rey.

Jim James – “Come Again”

The My Morning Jacket frontman delivers a beautifully adventurous, psychedelic indie-rock journey. It builds an immersive landscape of sound, blending a warm, acoustic center with expansive, cosmic echoes that completely fill the room. Sounds like: Pink Floyd and Fleet Foxes.

Mary in the Junkyard – “Crash Landing”

Next up, we are diving into that beautiful, uneasy corner of the underground known as ‘art rock’—which basically translates to oddball indie with a brilliantly experimental bent. Out of London, the trio mary in the junkyard fits perfectly into this space. They create these melancholy, chaotic compositions that are completely unclassifiable in the absolute best way possible. It’s magnetic, it’s kind of weird, and it completely clears out the static. Sounds like:Wolf Alice and Dry Cleaning.

Pet That Yeti – “Sadie”

If you need a track to help you hit the brakes and ease into the evening, this next one is your perfect landing spot. It’s a beautifully relaxed, slow-rolling indie tune. It’s just got that effortless, front-porch rock feel that makes you want to turn it up and lean back. Let’s get into it. Sounds like: Kurt Vile and Mac DeMarco.

The Jayhawks – “Keeping Our Heads Above Water”

If your ears need a dose of pure comfort, this track delivers a gorgeous, sun-drenched blend of Americana and power-pop. The crystal-clear vocal harmonies and warm, ringing acoustic guitars are an instant antidote to a heavy day. Let’s celebrate 40 years of them being together. First since 2020. Sounds like: Wilco and REM.

Westside Cowboy – “Pin Up Boys”

A gritty, desert-rock swagger that feels like a long look at a dusty highway. It’s anchored by a driving bassline, raw alternative guitar tones, and a dark, conversational vocal delivery that keeps you locked in. Sounds like: Queens of the Stone Age and The Black Keys.

Queen Anne – “Watch ‘Em Win It”

Get ready for a brilliant explosion of hook-heavy indie pop that hits you with a sharp, rhythmic confidence. It layers bright, infectious melodies over a driving alternative beat, making it almost impossible to sit still. Sounds like: Wet Leg and Metric.

Butthole Surfers – “Intelligent Guy (Astronaut Version)”

For the lovers of the beautifully strange. This is off a “lost album”. Intelligent Guy aping the shambling stoned beats and literally phoned-in semi-rapped vocals of MTV breakthrough single Pepper. It takes their signature chaotic alternative-punk grit and warps it in a bizarre, hypnotic cosmic fog. Sounds like: Ween and Primus.

Yard Act – “New Beginnings”

We are closing out this week’s set of discoveries with a songl about moving forward because you can’t go back. It locks you right in with a massive, rhythmic groove and a great nod to nineties Britpop. It has a swagger with a brilliant lyrical reminder to embrace the fresh start. Turn the volume up for this one. Sounds like: Pulp and Blur.

Have a brilliant day and remember if you love someone hug them right now.