MMT50 - 210

Meeting Malkmus - a Pavement podcast

Welcome to another episode of Meeting Malkmus, where we’re counting down the Top 50 Pavement songs as voted by fans. This week, we dive into song #10 on the list, the fan-favorite “Elevate Me Later” from Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain. Join host jD and special guest Jen Echo as they reminisce about the band’s seminal moments, tour stories, and the unique relationship fans have with Pavement’s music.

From Pavement’s early days and Slanted and Enchanted to their cult status in 90s alternative music, this episode is filled with personal fan anecdotes, live concert memories, and a deep dive into why this indie rock band still resonates decades later. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the band, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on Pavement’s iconic songs.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:05] – Introduction to the Pavement Top 50 Countdown: Recap of the journey so far, and the importance of “Elevate Me Later” in the Pavement discography.

• [01:55] – Jen Echo shares her Pavement origin story and how she first discovered the band while working at an independent record store in the 90s.

• [03:22] – Discussing the mystery behind Pavement’s cryptic early years and the appeal of albums like Slanted and Enchanted.

• [04:41] – The story of how Pavement built their underground reputation, including details from their early singles and why they connected with indie rock fans before mainstream success.

• [05:56] – Jen recounts her experience seeing Pavement live in Columbus, Ohio, in 1992, during the Slanted and Enchanted tour.

• [07:24] – Fan stories from Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain tour stops, including surreal concert experiences and a backstage moment with Stephen Malkmus.

• [09:06] – The history of Pavement’s live performances and how the band evolved over the years, with a focus on the energy of early concerts.

• [10:36] – Jen recalls attending a 1994 concert where fans encountered the band before the show, marking one of her earliest in-person experiences with the group.

• [13:09] – The iconic moment when Pavement played an entire set of chronological songs from their discography in a rare Milwaukee show, surprising even their most dedicated fans.

• [16:13] – What Pavement meant to the indie rock scene, with a focus on their DIY ethos and how their music resonated with both critics and underground fans.

• [20:10] – Jen’s personal anecdotes about being one of the few female superfans during Pavement’s early years and her unique backstage experiences with the band.

• [22:32] – The emotional weight of Pavement’s 1999 shows, leading up to their first breakup, and how fans, including Jen, coped with the band’s hiatus.

• [23:00] – Discussion on how Pavement’s 2010 reunion tour brought their music to a new generation of listeners and re-energized their fanbase.

• [25:35] – jD and Jen explore the deep-cut tracks from Slanted and Enchanted and Watery, Domestic, and how these B-sides influenced Pavement’s lasting legacy.

• [29:06] – Final thoughts on the enduring popularity of “Elevate Me Later” and why it deserved its place in the Top 10.

• [30:00] – Reflections on Pavement’s role in the 90s alternative music scene, including their influence on indie bands that followed.

Key Topics Covered:

• Pavement songs: Breaking down “Elevate Me Later” and why it stands out in the Top 50 Pavement countdown.

• Indie rock culture: How Pavement helped define the 90s alternative music scene.

• Behind-the-scenes stories from Pavement’s tours and their connection with superfans.

• Stephen Malkmus and Scott Kannberg (Spiral Stairs): Personal fan interactions with these key members of the band.

• Nostalgic fan anecdotes about catching Pavement at pivotal moments during the Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain and Slanted and Enchanted tours.

Follow and Join the Conversation:

• Instagram & Twitter: @meetingmalkmus

• Facebook: facebook.com/groups/meetingmalkmus

• Website: www.dewvre.com/meetingmalkmus

Be sure to connect with other Pavement fans, share your favorite tracks, and stay updated on future episodes of the countdown! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review.

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