34 - The J Word

34 - The J Word

It's finally happening - ! Join Joe on an investigation into Dan's relatively recent (and still developing) love of jazz. How did Dan navigate the labyrinthine world of jazz when he was first starting to explore it in earnest? What impact did World War II have on the history of jazz? Why is it that the titans of jazz played with so many different bands over the years? Whether you don't know your bebop from your elbow or you're head of the Miles Davis fan club, strap in for a joyful journey of passion, discovery and massive hands. (Recorded February 2026.)

33 - Do Reviews Matter?

The guys are finally back together and ready to weigh up the assorted values and demerits of musical reviews. What extra information does Jonathan think Metacritic scores can reveal about an artist's career? Why does Dan not consider reaction videos to be a form of review? Are negative reviews ever worth perusing? Ease back into Song Smart with us as we try and decide whether or not reviews are worth the paper on which they used to be printed! (Recorded February 2026.)

Back Next Week!

Finally, a short episode - ! This is just a quick update to let you know that we'll be back proper from next week, June 10th.

32 - 2025 In Review

The Song Smart Awards are back! Join Dan, Joe and Jonathan as they shine a light on some of their top picks from 2025 in categories including 'Best Song', 'Best Album / EP' and 'The New Horizons Prize'. Whose song of the year connects them with their inner child? What gives the edge to Jonathan's pick for best album in a year with such stiff competition? Why is Joe generally wary of handing out 'The New Horizons Prize'? As 2026 looms large ahead of us, raise a toast and help us celebrate another year positively overflowing with excellent music! (Recorded December 2025.)

31 - JT vs. 2025

One man, 13 chart-toppers and no holds barred! Hang out with Jonathan as he sifts through the tracks which went to #1 in the UK this year and decides which of them - if any - are worth getting excited about. Why is he surprised that Kendrick Lamar's 'Not Like Us' managed to top the singles chart? Which two established British pop traditions does he think Lola Young exists somewhere between? How can he defend describing Alex Warren's 'Ordinary' as "a load of old rubbish"? From predictions of continued success to somewhat politely phrased criticisms brace for impact as Jonathan discloses what he really thinks about some of this year's biggest hits. (Recorded November 2025.)