Totally 80s and 90s Recall
Two Gen X dudes take a nostalgic look at all things 80s and 90s, covering music, movies, television, and pop culture. They rewind back to the era of cassette tapes, big hair, and Super Nintendo, reviewing two of the most influential decades. New episodes drop every Tuesday.
Episodes
Bon Jovi’s 'Slippery When Wet' (1986): The Hits, The Hair, & The History
Grab your hairspray and your jean jacket, because this week Dave and Rob are turning the clock back to 1986 to tackle one of the biggest rock albums of all time: Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet. With over 28 million copies sold worldwide, this powerhouse record gave us legendary anthems like "Livin' on a Prayer," "You Give Love a Bad Name," and "Wanted Dead or Alive." Bu
1985 vs. 1995: Let’s Go Go get a Kiss From a Rose
What happens when you pit the neon-soaked, high-energy pop of the mid-80s against the smooth R&B and heavy hip-hop beats of the mid-90s? In this episode, Dave and Rob go head-to-head in the ultimate musical time-travel debate: 1985 vs. 1995. By pulling up the data and looking at the official top 5 year-end hits on the US Billboard Hot 100 for each year, the guys break down how a single decade comp
Independence Day (1996); Times Up!
Fire up the F-18s and grab your ThinkPads, because we have officially reached the third and final movie in our Summer Blockbuster series! To close things out with a bang, we are covering the definitive 90s disaster masterpiece: Independence Day (1996). We dive deep into the glorious spectacle of Roland Emmerich's alien invasion, tracking everything from Will Smith's legendary one-liners to the cha
Terminator 2 Judgment Day (1991): "Hasta La Vista, Baby"
“I’ll be back.” Jump into this deep-dive on Terminator 2: Judgment Day as we unpack the groundbreaking effects, unforgettable one-liners, and behind-the-scenes secrets that made this 90s sci-fi classic one of the greatest sequels ever made. From the iconic canal chase to the explosive finale and the chilling T-1000, we break down why T2 still hits hard today—and why Arnold’s legendary performance
Raiders of the Lost Ark: Why Indiana Jones Still Rules the 80s
Do you like archaeology? What about Nazis? If you said yes to one or both of these choices, join Rob, Dave and Kurt this week as they take a look back at the action classic, Raiders of the Lost Ark. The crew uncovers the secrets behind Steven Spielberg and George Lucas’s legendary collaboration, tracking Harrison Ford's definitive leap from smuggler to the world's favorite whip-cracking professor.
The 80s TV Commercials That Made Our Childhood
This week we are breaking down our absolute favorite ads from a decade where marketing wasn't just about selling a product—it was about embedding catchy jingles and unforgettable catchphrases directly into pop culture. From fast-food face-offs that asked the ultimate questions to hyperactive toy commercials that defined our childhood wishlists, we are looking back at the clever, quirky, and downri
Summer Hits of 1996; Tupac, Mariah and The Macarena
Dust off your pagers and grab a Surge soda! This week, Dave and Rob are hopping into the time machine and dialing the coordinates to June 9th, 1996. The box office was dominated by Mission: Impossible, the Macarena was slowly taking over the planet, and the Billboard Hot 100 was a wild mix of legendary hip-hop, R&B royalty, alt-rock, and powerhouse vocalists
What makes this specific week so le
Top Gun (1986)...I Feel The Need, The Need For Speed!!
This week, Dave, Rob, and Kurt are strapping into the cockpit to tackle Tony Scott’s 1986 pop-culture juggernaut, Top Gun. Listeners can expect the trio to break down how this high-octane blend of aerial choreography, synthesizers, and pure machismo defined an era of Hollywood filmmaking. Dave will likely dive deep into the movie’s legendary soundtrack—debating whether "Danger Zone" or &
1984 vs. 1994: Which Year Ruled the Billboard Hot 100?
This week, Rob and Dave are stepping into the musical time machine for the ultimate clash of titans. We are pitting the absolute best of the Billboard Hot 100 from 1984 against the heavy hitters of 1994. The guys break down the Year-End Top 5 for each era, look at the cultural shifts that defined music as a whole, and make the impossible final call: Which year actually reigned supreme?
To keep thi
Fear (1996): Why This 90s Thriller Scares Us 4 Eva
Grab your frosted tips and your most questionable life choices, because this week Rob, Dave, and Kurt are stepping onto the roller coaster of madness that is Fear (1996)
Is it a gritty psychological thriller about a father protecting his daughter? Or is it an accidental comedic masterpiece where a future Oscar nominee carves "Nicole" into his chest and declares war on a German Shepherd?
80s Horsepower: A Look at the Decades Most Famous Rides
We're revving up some 80s Horsepower!
In this week's special nostalgia-packed episode, your favorite trio—Rob, Dave, and Kurt—are taking a deep dive into the most iconic, radical, and unforgettable vehicles that defined our childhoods. We aren't just talking about cars; we're covering everything with wheels (or hyperdrives!) that made us want to jump into the driver's seat and go on an adventure.
Aliens (1986): "Game Over, Man!" – Is this Rambo in Space?
Strap in, gear up, and prepare for a bug hunt. This week, Rob and Dave are joined by Kurt to dive into James Cameron’s 1986 powerhouse, Aliens—the sequel that traded a haunted house in space for a full-scale intergalactic war.
The sequel cranked the volume to eleven, trading shadows for pulse rifles and introducing us to the most terrifying matriarch in cinema history. Whether you’re a die-hard Co
1996 Alt Rock Rewind: Is Grunge Dead?
1996 Alt Rock Rewind: Is Grunge Dead?
Travel back to the peak of the 90s with Rob and Dave as they countdown the best Alternative songs of 1996. From the rise of Britpop and the explosion of Pop-Punk to the moody evolution of Post-Grunge, 1996 was a defining year for the airwaves.
In this episode, we’re breaking down the cultural shifts that happened when "Alternative" officially became the mainst
Phil Collins vs. Genesis: The Ultimate 80s Pop War
Phil Collins vs. Genesis: Who truly ruled the 80s?
This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Rob and Dave tackle the ultimate pop-rock showdown: Phil Collins versus his own band, Genesis. In an era where Phil seemed to be everywhere at once, we break down the friendly—and highly lucrative—rivalry that defined the 80s and early 90s.
We’re weighing massive solo hits like "In the Air Tonight" and "Sus
Point Break: 100% Pure Adrenaline & 90s Perfection
"I am a F.B.I. Agent!" This week, we’re paddling out into the 50-year storm to revisit the 1991 adrenaline-fueled masterpiece, Point Break. It’s a film that shouldn’t work on paper—a Zen-philosophical surfing heist movie—yet it somehow redefined the action genre. From the high-stakes "Ex-Presidents" bank robberies to Gary Busey’s unhinged energy, we’re breaking down why this Ka
80s Movie Songs: Our Top 10 Underrated Gems (No Danger Zone!)
Forget "Footloose" and "Danger Zone"—Dave and Rob are digging into the 80s movie deep cuts you forgot you loved. This isn't your average Top 10; it’s a high-octane countdown of the best "non-mainstream" tracks to ever grace the silver screen.
In this episode, the guys bypass the obvious radio hits like "Ghostbusters" and "The Power of Love" to cele
1983 vs. 1993: Who Won the Billboard Hot 100? (Michael Jackson vs. Whitney Houston)
Is 1983 the greatest year in music history, or does 1993 take the crown? In this episode, we dive deep into the sonic rivalry between the neon-soaked 80s New Wave and the raw, rebellious 90s Alternative era.
From the global takeover of Michael Jackson’s Thriller and the synth-pop hooks of The Police, to the distorted guitars of Nirvana and the West Coast grooves of Dr. Dre, we’re breaking down the
Big Trouble in Little China: Cult Classic or Disaster?
Was Big Trouble in Little China the greatest cult classic of the 80s, or just a misunderstood martial arts masterpiece? In 1986, John Carpenter and Kurt Russell teamed up to create a genre-bending adventure that defied every box Hollywood tried to put it in. Join Rob, Kurt and Dave as they dive into the wild world of Jack Burton, the Lo Pan sorcery, and the neon-soaked underground of San Francisco
Metallica: The Black Album - Genius Move or Ultimate Sell-Out?
Was Metallica’s The Black Album the moment they traded their souls, or the moment they became legends? In 1991, four guys from San Francisco changed the course of rock history forever. Join Rob and Dave as they crack open the CD binder to dissect Metallica’s self-titled masterpiece and explore how the band transitioned from heavy metal underground dominance to a global 90s rock phenomenon.
Metalli
Top 10 Albums That Defined 90s Music
From the Seattle rain to the L.A. sunshine, today we are counting down the 10 albums that defined the 90s. Rob and Dave crack open the CD binder to dive headfirst into the 90s music landscape, revealing our personal top-ranked albums of the decade.
(Listen to our breakdowns of these iconic records)
0:00 - Relax and Rewind: Welcome to 80s and 90s Recall
2:19 - The impossible mission: Crafti
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991): Was it Actually Good? | Totally 80s & 90s Recall
This week we're reviewing the 1991 Kevin Costner classic Robin Hood; Prince of Thieves. We'll travel back to 1194 to frantically help Costner look for his English accent. This high action darker take on Robin Hood was a global financial success earning over $390 million worldwide. Although Costner's hair and flaming arrow may have gotten you to the theater, it's Alan Rickman who steals the show as
Why 80s Country Was the Best Kept Secret in Music
Dust off the rhinestones and fire up the jukebox, because 1980s country was where neon lights met steel guitars. The decade kicked off with outlaw grit still echoing from the 70s, but soon the airwaves filled with the polished swagger of artists like George Strait and Reba McEntire, who balanced tradition with arena-sized confidence. Bands like Alabama turned country into a crossover powerhouse, s
Wayne's World (1992): Is It Still The Ultimate 90s Comedy?
Dave, Rob, and Kurt are plugging in their guitars and cranking the volume to eleven as they drop the needle on 1992’s Wayne’s World, the movie that turned public access TV into a rock-and-roll religion. From the opening Bohemian Rhapsody headbang to the immortal cry of “Party on,” this episode dives straight into the movie’s glorious chaos. They’ll revisit the birth of Wayne and Garth as big-scree
80s Heartbreak: The Ultimate Power Ballad & Breakup Anthems
Valentine’s Day is usually a parade of roses and power ballads, but Dave and Rob are taking a scenic detour through the heartbreak aisle. The 80s had a special talent for turning breakups into epic events, complete with echoing drums, pleading vocals, and choruses that felt designed for late night staring contests with the ceiling. These songs did not whisper their sadness. They announced it with
90s Booty Jams: Ranking Our Top 7 "Baby-Makers"
The 90s had a velvet-lit corner of the dance floor reserved for slow jams that knew exactly what they were doing. Rob and Dave are cracking open that time capsule this week, lining up their favorite Valentine-ready booty jams where the bassline lingered and the vocals whispered promises. Artists like Keith Sweat and Blackstreet didn’t rush the moment. They let it simmer, letting silk-smooth harmon
January 1986 Rewind: Our Favorite Hits from the Billboard Hot 100
The week of January 27th, 1986 found the Billboard Hot 100 glowing like a neon strip of American pop confidence. Radio and record stores were in lockstep, and the charts reflected a nation humming along to big hooks and bigger personalities. Bruce Springsteen was still flying the blue collar flag high, Dire Straits proved that sophisticated guitar rock could dominate mainstream ears, and The Cars
1991 Movie Draft: The Great Cinematic Showdown
We’re cracking open 1991 like a fresh VHS rental and drafting the very best films the year had to offer. Rob, Dave, and Kurt will go head to head, assembling their dream rosters from a cinematic moment that still hums with electricity. This was the year of Terminator 2: Judgment Day rewriting the rules of the blockbuster, The Silence of the Lambs turning prestige drama into a pop culture event, an
New Jack Swing: The Infectious Beat That Defined an Era
New Jack Swing kicked the door open in the late 80s and rearranged the furniture. Born at the crossroads of slick R&B vocals and the punchy swagger of hip hop beats, it fused polished melodies with drum machine snap, sampled funk, and a streetwise pulse. Teddy Riley was the mad scientist at the center of it all, wiring together sounds that felt futuristic and familiar at the same time. Artists
1982 vs. 1992: The Billboard Hot 100 Showdown
In this episode, Rob and Dave fire up the musical time machine and pit 1982 against 1992, two years that changed the sound of pop in very different ways. They start by breaking down each year’s Billboard Top 5 hits, where synths, power ballads, and early MTV shine in ’82, while ’92 flexes with grunge tremors, hip hop dominance, and slick pop polish. From chart-toppers that ruled car radios to song
80s Movie Bracket: The Grand Finale – Crowning the Greatest Film of the Decade
The lights are hot, the synths are humming, and the 80s Movie Bracket has reached its glorious endgame. Rob, Dave, and Kurt throw open the studio doors and welcome two heavy hitters of nostalgia, Jim from Children of the 80s and Giff from Pop Culture Yearbook, to help settle an argument that has echoed since VHS rewinds were a workout. Four mighty brackets, Action, Comedy, Sports, and Sci-Fi/Fanta
Christmas 2025: Ranking Our Top 10 Holiday Classics
Rob and Dave Pry open the Billboard Holiday 100 for the week of December 13, 2025, like two kids shaking a suspiciously heavy gift under the tree. They wander through the chart’s blizzard of seasonal contenders, pointing out the trends, oddities, and eyebrow-raising entries that somehow drifted their way into the top 100. Their goal: identify the tracks that deliver genuine holiday sparkle rather
Home Alone (1990): Why This Is Still the Ultimate Holiday Movie
Dave, Rob, and Kurt settle into their studio chairs like a trio of over-caffeinated elves, ready to unwrap the 1990 holiday juggernaut that is Home Alone. Their conversation whirls through booby-trap brilliance, John Williams magic, and the curious physics of paint cans that apparently double as guided missiles. Each host brings a different flavor to the sleigh ride: Dave with his delighted forens
80s & 90s Christmas: The Toys We Got, The Toys We Wanted
Christmas in the ’80s and ’90s had a magic all its own—equal parts neon lights, tinsel overload, and the warm glow of TV specials you had to catch live, or you missed them for the whole season. It was the era of mall Santas, department-store catalogs thick enough to use as booster seats, and the unmistakable sound of wrapping paper tearing open to reveal toys that felt larger than life. From drivi
The Dark Side of Christmas: Revisiting Scrooged (1988)
This week on Totally 80’s and 90’s Recall, Dave, Rob, and Kurt kick off the Christmas season with a look back at Scrooged from 1988—a darkly funny and totally 80s reimagining of A Christmas Carol. Starring Bill Murray as Frank Cross, a cold-hearted TV executive who learns the true meaning of Christmas through a surreal series of ghostly visits, the movie blends sharp satire with slapstick chaos. T
80s Video Games: Our Top 5 Arcade & Console Classics
In this episode, Rob and Dave are taking it all the way back to the golden age of gaming — the 1980s — when the arcade was the place to be. From the flashing lights and 8-bit soundtracks of Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Galaga to the quarters lined up on the cabinet waiting for your turn, the arcade became a social hub where kids, teens, and even adults lost track of time chasing high scores. It was a
80s Sci-Fi/Fantasy Bracket: The Road to the Final Four
In this episode, Dave, Rob, and Kurt are teaming up with Jason and Dee from The Surely You Can’t Be Serious Podcast for the ultimate showdown — the final 80s movie bracket, Sci-Fi and Fantasy edition! Sixteen legendary films enter the arena, from time-traveling adventures like Back to the Future to alien encounters in E.T. and Aliens, and the wild imagination of The Goonies and Beetlejuice. It’s a
One and Done: Ranking Our Favorite 80s One-Hit Wonders
On this week’s episode of Totally 80’s and 90’s Recall, Dave and Rob dive headfirst into the colorful world of 1980s one-hit wonders — those unforgettable artists who flashed across the charts like neon lightning and then vanished just as quickly. From the synth-heavy pulse of “Take On Me” by A-ha to the infectious groove of Dexys Midnight Runners’ “Come On Eileen,” the duo celebrates the decade’s
90s Adult Contemporary: The Softer Side of the Decade
90s Adult Contemporary
In the 1990s, while grunge was roaring from Seattle and hip-hop was taking over the charts, a smoother, more polished sound quietly thrived on radio stations and office CD players across America — Adult Contemporary. This was the music of big emotions, soft edges, and universal appeal. Artists like Celine Dion, Phil Collins, Michael Bolton, and Whitney Houston carried the to
The Shining (1980): Is it the Scariest Movie of the 80s
This week, Rob, Dave, and Kurt dive deep into one of the most haunting and visually striking films of the 1980s—Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. Released in 1980 and based (loosely) on Stephen King’s novel, the film stars Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance, a struggling writer who takes a job as the winter caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel. Alongside his wife Wendy (Shelley Duvall) and young son
Underdogs & Overachievers: Ranking the 80s Sports Movie Bracket
This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave, Rob, and Kurt are diving headfirst into the golden era of inspirational sports movies — the 1980s. From the underdog triumphs of Hoosiers and the blue-collar grit of Major League to the heartfelt magic of Field of Dreams, we’re revisiting the decade that turned locker room speeches and training montages into cinematic legend. And of course, no 80s spo
What’s in the Box? Revisiting the 1995 Masterpiece Se7en
This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave, Rob, and Kurt dive deep into the dark, rain-soaked world of 1995’s Se7en — David Fincher’s gritty psychological thriller that had audiences whispering “What’s in the box?!” for decades. Starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman as detectives hunting a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as inspiration for his gruesome crimes, Se7en defined the de
(What’s The Story) Morning Glory?: Why Oasis Defined 1995
(What’s The Story) Morning Glory? - Oasis (1995)
On this week’s episode of Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave and Rob are rewinding back to 1995 to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Oasis’ landmark album What’s the Story Morning Glory. Track by track, they’ll unpack the record that turned the Gallagher brothers from local Manchester heroes into worldwide rock icons. From the swaggering punch of “Rol
Rocky IV (1985): The Most 80s Movie Ever Made?
In this episode, Dave, Rob, and Kurt step into the ring with Rocky IV (1985), one of the most over-the-top and iconic entries in the franchise. We’ll dive into the big questions fans have debated for decades: did Rocky single-handedly solve the Cold War with his fists and an inspiring speech? And when it comes to Apollo Creed’s tragic death at the gloves of Ivan Drago, who really shoulders the bla
90s Country: Our Top 7 Tracks (Vol. 3)
On the latest episode of Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave and Rob dive into 90s Country Vol. 3, revisiting an era when Nashville was churning out some of the most beloved crossover hits in music history. The duo shares their favorite tracks from artists like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, and Brooks & Dunn, unpacking the stories behind the songs and why they resonated so strongly with audiences a
1981 vs. 1991: The Ultimate Billboard Chart Battle
In 1981, the music world was still riding the wave of disco’s afterglow while carving out the sounds that would define the decade. Rock was dominant on the charts, with bands like Journey, REO Speedwagon, and Foreigner packing arenas, while new wave acts such as The Go-Go’s and Duran Duran were beginning to reshape pop with synthesizers and bright, punchy hooks. MTV hadn’t launched yet—that would
Laughing All the Way: Our 80s Comedy Bracket
This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave, Rob, and Kurt are joined by special guests Brad and Sean to dive into the wild world of 1980s comedy movies with a March Madness–style 16-team bracket. From slapstick to satire, the guys break down some of the funniest and most quotable films of the decade, pitting classics head-to-head until only two comedies reigns supreme. Each matchup sparks laugh
Who is Your Daddy? Revisiting the 1990 Hit Kindergarten Cop
This week on Totally 80s & 90s Recall, the podcast crew revisited the 1990 classic Kindergarten Cop, and it proved to be a surprisingly entertaining mix of action and comedy. Arnold Schwarzenegger stepping into a classroom full of energetic kids creates a delightfully oddball scenario, balancing tough-guy antics with heartwarming moments. The movie’s humor, combined with its over-the-top premi
1983 Rewind: The Week The Police Ruled the World
For the week ending August 27, 1983, the Billboard Hot 100 was loaded with some of the most iconic songs of the decade. At the top, The Police were wrapping up their legendary run with “Every Breath You Take” before yielding to a new wave of contenders. Hot on their heels, Eurythmics’ synth-driven “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” was climbing fast, while Michael Sembello’s “Maniac” was burning up
The 90s Hall of Shame: Ranking Our 7 Worst Songs of 93 & 94
The early ’90s gave us some of the most iconic music of the decade, but 1993 and 1994 also produced a surprising collection of misfires that have aged like milk in the sun. From overproduced follow-up singles that couldn’t capture the magic of their predecessors to novelty tracks that made listeners question their life choices, these years proved that even in the golden age of grunge, hip-hop, and
Billboard Birthday: The #1 Songs from the Year We Were Born
This week on Totally 80’s and 90’s Recall, Rob and Dave are going way back—to the years they were born! Dave is diving into the Billboard Hot 100 of 1976, and Rob’s taking on 1977, but with a twist: each of them has handpicked their favorite 10 songs from those charts—not necessarily the biggest hits, but the ones that stuck with them as they grew up through the late ’70s and into the heart of the
Back to the Future (1985): The Perfect 80s Movie?
Great Scott! Back to the Future is the heartwarming tale of a teenage slacker, a wild-haired scientist, and a DeLorean with more horsepower than common sense. When Marty McFly accidentally zaps himself from 1985 to 1955, he must dodge his horny teenage mom, fix his parents’ love life, and somehow get back to the future—all while Doc Brown turns Hill Valley High into a test site for time-traveling
Ten Years of Pearl Jam: Revisiting the 90s Rock Titans
In this week’s episode of Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave and Rob dive deep into the flannel-wrapped world of one of the most iconic bands of the ‘90s—Pearl Jam. From the explosive arrival of Ten in 1991 to their fierce stance against the mainstream and Ticketmaster, Pearl Jam helped shape the grunge movement while carving their own path through the decade’s chaotic music scene. We’re talking raw
80s Billboard Live: An Unscripted Deep Dive into the Hot 100
This week, Rob and Dave are throwing caution (and their notes) to the wind as they go live on Totally 80s and 90s Recall for a wild ride through the Billboard charts of the 1980s! That’s right—no scripts, no prep, just two dudes, a mic, and a time-traveling love affair with the greatest decade in music history. For this live episode, they'll spin the wheel (okay, probably just pick randomly) to ch
Help Me, Help You: The Cruise-In Finale (Jerry Maguire)
Oh, Jerry Maguire—the 1996 rom-com/sports drama hybrid we didn’t know we needed but now can’t live without. Tom Cruise plays a slick sports agent who has a midlife moral crisis, writes a manifesto (sorry, mission statement), gets immediately fired, and walks out of the office with nothing but a goldfish and Renée Zellweger. Meanwhile, Cuba Gooding Jr. yells “Show me the money!” enough times to win
Cruise-In: Part II - Cruise vs. Nicholson in A Few Good Men
A Few Good Men is a powerhouse military courtroom drama directed by Rob Reiner, starring Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, and Demi Moore. The story follows hotshot Navy lawyer Lt. Daniel Kaffee (Cruise), who’s known for cutting plea deals rather than seeing the inside of a courtroom. But when two Marines are accused of murdering a fellow Marine at Guantanamo Bay, Kaffee is pushed into a case that’s way
The Cruise-In: Part I - Diving into Days of Thunder (1990)
This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave, Rob, and Kurt are firing up the engines and diving into Days of Thunder (1990), the slick, high-speed NASCAR drama that brought Top Gun-style adrenaline to the racetrack. Directed by Tony Scott and produced by the powerhouse duo of Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, the film stars Tom Cruise as Cole Trickle, a fearless but raw driver trying to prove h
Battle for the Best of '85: A Billboard #1 Hits Draft
1985 #1 Hits (Draft)
Get ready to crank up the nostalgia, because this week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave and Rob are diving headfirst into the unforgettable soundscape of 1985! From power ballads and synth-pop to chart-topping movie anthems, 1985 delivered one of the most diverse and iconic collections of #1 hits in Billboard history. Whether it was the smooth stylings of Phil Collins, the
80s Movie Bracket: The Ultimate Action Showdown
This week, Dave, Rob, and Kurt (with a special guest) strap on their bandoliers and dive headfirst into the over-the-top, protein-shake-fueled madness of 1980s action movies—where subtlety was for side characters and every explosion was a valid plot device. This was the golden era when Arnold Schwarzenegger could wipe out an entire jungle cartel with just a grimace, Sylvester Stallone turned mumbl
The 90s Time Capsule: Dave’s Secret Summer Mix Revealed
This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave and Rob crack open a sun-soaked time capsule from the 90s — a classic burned CD labeled "Summer Grooves." It’s 16 tracks of pure nostalgic heat, handpicked to capture that perfect summer vibe. Whether you were cruising with the windows down, throwing a beach party, or just chilling in your backyard with a boombox and a cold beer, this mix hit
Heat (1995): A Deep Dive into the Ultimate Heist Movie
This week, we’re firing up the intensity with Heat, Michael Mann’s epic 1995 crime saga that brought together two cinematic titans — Al Pacino and Robert De Niro — for the first time ever in a shared scene. (Yes, The Godfather Part II doesn’t count — different timelines, folks.)
Heat is a gritty, stylish, and emotionally charged cat-and-mouse thriller set against the moody backdrop of Los Angeles.
30 Years of Ill Communication: Revisiting the Beastie Boys Masterpiece
Ill Communication, released in 1994, marked a high point for the Beastie Boys, blending their signature irreverent style with genre-hopping experimentation. The album saw the trio—Mike D, MCA, and Ad-Rock—seamlessly fuse hardcore punk, jazz-funk, and old-school hip-hop, with the standout single “Sabotage” becoming an anthem of the era. Its explosive bassline, distorted guitars, and aggressive deli
Mallrats (1995) & The Rise of the 90s Slacker Comedy
This week on Totally 80s and 90s Recall, Dave, Rob, and Kurt go full flannel as they rewind to 1995 and dive headfirst into Kevin Smith’s cult classic Mallrats—a movie that taught a generation never to trust a chocolate covered pretzel, stay out of the back of Volkswagens, and for the love of Stan Lee, fear the escalator
Our trio of podcasting mallrats unpacks the film's most unforgettable moments
Decade Duel: Kicking Off the 80s vs. 90s Music Battle
It’s the battle of the decade openers! In this episode, David and Rob rewind to 1980 and 1990 to break down the biggest, boldest, and most unforgettable songs that launched the '80s and '90s in style. From the final echoes of disco and the rise of New Wave to the dawn of hip-hop’s golden age and the birth of the pop mega-star—these two years were more than just the start of a new decade. They were
The 1995 Alternative Hit List: From Grunge to Britpop
1995 was a transitional year for what was known as “Alternative” music, as it started to become a melting pot of old and new styles in the post grunge world. Bands like Foo Fighters and Bush carried a little of the old grunge ideals, but with a more radio friendly style. Britpop and electronic based music started to become very popular. Huge albums from Alannis Morissette and The Smashing Pumpkins
The Command Structure: Breaking Down Crimson Tide (1995)
This week, we’re diving into the high-stakes, high-pressure world of Crimson Tide—the 1995 submarine thriller that pits two powerhouse performances against each other: Gene Hackman as a grizzled, old-school Navy captain, and Denzel Washington as his calm, calculated executive officer.
When a rogue Russian faction threatens nuclear war, the crew of the U.S.S. Alabama receives an incomplete order th
Hysteria: Does the Biggest Def Leppard Album Still Hold Up?
In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most iconic and meticulously produced rock albums of the 1980s — Def Leppard’s Hysteria. Released in 1987, this monster record took over the airwaves with a perfect blend of hard rock swagger, pop hooks, and groundbreaking production.
We break down the story behind the album’s creation — from Rick Allen’s triumphant return after losing his arm, to Mutt
The 80s Playlist Challenge: We Built Mixtapes for Each Other
The 80s were a great time for music, perhaps even the greatest. From innovations in technology, like synthesizers and drum machines to memorable hooks and big 80s production the 80s were next level iconic. The music of the 80s spread across so many genres and styles it pretty much gave everyone something great to listen to. If you were into pop, rock, hip hop, synth dance pop, alternative or just
Damn the Man! Breaking Down Empire Records & Rex Manning Day
This week we dive into the cult classic from 1995, Empire Records. This dramedy is set over the course of a single day at an independent record store in the mid 90’s. The store is staffed by an eclectic group of teenagers and young adults all dealing with their own problems while trying to save the store from being turned into a corporate Music Town. Dave, Rob and Kurt will rewatch this 90s classi
Beyond the Singles: Our 90s Album Deep Dives (Vol. 2)
Whether it was grunge, hip-hop or pop albums shaped the identity of entire generations. They weren’t just music, there were statements, lifestyles and defining moments. Unlike today where you can access songs as a single streaming item, listening to an album in the 90s became an entire experience. Albums would have intro tracks, interludes, deep cuts and secret songs that you’d only find by listen
80s Cover Songs: The Hits You Didn’t Know Were Remakes
Singers and groups have always been inspired by the music that came before them. In the 80s, many of these artists found key success by recording other bands or songwriters material or what is called a Cover. So why do musicians cover songs instead of writing their own? Well a variety of reasons as it turns out, tribute to influences, reaching a wider audience, live performance appeal, TV and film
Holy Schnikes! Revisiting Tommy Boy (1995)
This week we tackle the 1995 comedy classic Tommy Boy starring Chris Farley and David Spade. We’re heading out on the road with a recently graduated Tommy (Farley) and accountant Richard (Spade) to try and save Tommy’s Dad’s company after he passes away. They sing, fight, make up and maybe even become friends with some wild and interesting stuff happening along the way. Dave, Rob and Kurt will bre
From Friends to Fresh Prince: The Best 90s TV Theme Songs
TV show theme songs started to grow up a little in the 90s. Instead of family friendly, poppy and catchy tunes, 90s TV shows started embracing more musical choices that reflected the changing times. In the 90s, TV execs started tapping into hip hop and alternative rock culture to ensure young people found the songs relevant. The old formula of the 70s and 80s gave way to more instrumental pieces a
80s Rap Essentials: Rob and Dave’s Top 7 Picks
Rap music in the 1980s was a groundbreaking and rapidly evolving genre that laid the foundation for modern hip-hop. It started as an underground movement in New York and transformed into a cultural phenomenon by the end of the decade. Early artists like the Sugarhill Gang and Kurtis Blow laid the foundation for artists like Run DMC, the Beastie Boys and LL Cool J to begin to bring rap to a larger
The Breakfast Club (1985): Still the Ultimate Teen Movie?
The Breakfast Club, directed by John Hughes, is a classic teen drama that takes place over the course of a single Saturday detention at Shermer High School. The film follows five students from vastly different social cliques. The five classes include the criminal, the princess, the jock, the nerd and the basket case. Being overseen by an angry Vice Principal, the 5 students start to learn they hav
1990 Rap Revolution: MC Hammer’s Please Hammer Don’t Hurt 'Em
During this month 35 years ago, the whole world threw on some Hammer pants and was captivated by the world’s most famous Bat Boy. We’re heading back to 1990 to look at the smash hit album by MC Hammer, Please Hammer Don’t Hurt Em. Hammer’s second studio album was a massive commercial success, solidifying him as one of the biggest hip-hop/pop crossover artists of the early 90’s. He also happened to
Valentine’s Day Recall: Growing Up in the 80s & 90s
Valentine’s Day in the 80s and 90s had a different, unique charm than today. The holiday was less digital, more personal and packed with pop culture influences. On this week’s episode, Rob and Dave look back at the candy, TV and music of the most romantic holiday in the 80s and 90s. From hand made cards, mixtapes and school dances serenaded by Wham, Valentines Day has a nostalgic feel from that ti
So I Got That Goin' For Me: Breaking Down Caddyshack (1980)
This week we’re taking a look at a classic sports comedy that blends zany humor with an underdog story. We’re heading back 45 years to the upscale Bushwood Country Club where this movie revolves around a diverse group of quirky characters. Danny Noonan is a young caddy trying to earn a scholarship to pay for college. He attempts to win the favor of the eccentric club co-founder, Judge Smails, whil
The Hits of 1995: Revisiting the Billboard Hot 100 (Jan 28th)
We’re heading back 30 years this week to look at the 100 hottest songs in America, according to radio and album sales, for this week in January 1995. 1995 was diverse, reflecting a wide range of genres that dominated the charts and defined the cultural landscape of the mid 1990’s. Styles that were popular were grunge/alternative rock, Britpop to include bands like Oasis, Blur and Pulp, Pop Music,
How Was This Not a Hit? 80s Songs That Missed the Charts
The 1980s were a golden era for pop music, often celebrated for its unique blend of creativity, innovation, and cultural impact. But what made the music of the time so awesome. Well, you had iconic artists and personalities, genre blending creativity, the synthesizer revolution, unforgettable melodies, MTV and a timeless appeal. The standard most artists could point to that illustrated their popul
Seal the Deal: The Conclusion of Rob’s 1988 Crush Mixtape
In the new world of playlists and streaming music, the youth of today will never know the painstaking steps that were needed to formulate a mixed cassette tape. Whether you were building the tape for a friend, a family member or that special someone, it was a process that took a lot of time, patience and thought to make sure the songs you selected were just right. Through a combination of borrowin
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