Mandatory Music Podcast

Mandatory Music

Michael Heide and Sebastian Kwapich
Welcome to Mandatory Music! A podcast about the craft of music.Join Mike and Sebastian as they unravel the depths of song writing, musicianship and great artists. Each season centres on one particular band, with a deep dive into specific songs that delve into their creation, sound and complexatity. It is within song and harmony, melody and rhythm that our emotional heartbeat echos. It has been said that "Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything. - PlatoSo, come for the ride.
The Flesh Betrays the Flesh
Welcome to Mandatory Music. On today’s episode Michael and Sebastian dissect the Metallica’s closing track on the Hardwired…to self Destruct album….the thrash banger, Spit Out the Bone. We peel back layer after layer of themes and riffs to get to the metallic core of this tune about succumbing to technology and turning into a machine. Join us on the ride.
Apr 19, 2024
36 min
Episode 6: Kashmir of the 90's
Join Michael and Sebastian as they Deep dive the Metallica classic Sad But True. We dig into the lyrics and song composition. We also discuss seeing the song live, the guitar solo and some interesting facts about the song.- The lyrics of "Sad But True" reflect feelings of paranoia, angst and self-doubt. The line "I'm your truth, telling lies" can be interpreted as the inner battle between one's true self and the facade they present to the world. - The song is composed in the key of E minor, with a slow, heavy groove. The riff is iconic and instantly recognizable, with its alternating low E and A strings. The drum beats are simple, yet powerful, while the bassline adds a weighty foundation to the song. - Seeing "Sad But True" live is a truly immersive experience. The crowd often sings along to the chorus, creating a sense of unity and cathartic release. The energy and intensity of the live performance amplifies the emotions conveyed in the song. - Interesting facts about "Sad But True" include the fact that the working title for the song was "Sad but Sweet" and it was almost left off the album because the band felt it was too similar to "Enter Sandman." Overall, "Sad But True" is a powerful and emotional song that has stood the test of time. Its lyrics and composition resonates with many fans and it continues to be a staple in Metallica's live performances. 
Apr 14, 2024
29 min
Episode 5: Obey your Master
Michael and Sebastian tackle what some consider the undeniable greatest song that Metallica has every recorded, Master of Puppets. Take a ride with us as we explore the rise and fall of the music, lyrics and themes of addiction as the song echo’s feelings of euphoria and despair, elation and depression. Obey your master.https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/moises-the-musicians-app/id1515796612https://www.buzzsprout.com/2324471/shareOutro song written and performed by: Michael Heide
Apr 7, 2024
42 min
Episode 4: Soothing Voices
“You insist that the weight of the world should be on your shoulders.” Michael and Sebastian chat about one of the most melancholy songs that Metallica had ever put out, My Friend of Misery. Join us as we break down what it is and what it could have been.Facebook search:  mandatory musicemail: [email protected]
Mar 31, 2024
33 min
Episode 3: Death and Deliverance
We talk about the second track on Metallica's debut album, Kill Em All. Released when the band was twenty years old and already showing massive signs of mature and complex writing and musical composition. Join us as we discuss the thematic riffs and lyrics of this biblical masterpiece.
Mar 24, 2024
32 min
Episode 2
Michael and Sebastian tackle the controversial first single release from the Metallica's Load album, Until It Sleeps. We discuss Metallica's new sound, look and try to unpack the band's new trajectory into their musical sound. Thank you for listening!! We appreciate the support.
Mar 15, 2024
39 min
Episode "One"
Mike and Sebastian break down Metallica's iconic song One. We dig deep into the lyrics, song composition and the imagery from their first ever music video. We also stroll down memory lane reflecting on our experiences seeing the song live.Thank you for listening!! we really appreciate the supportEmail: [email protected] on Facebook @mandatorymusic
Mar 10, 2024
29 min
Episode Zero: The Intro
Mike and Sebastian introduce themselves and talk a little music and what's to come in the future. We cover the format of the podcast which is to deep dive specific songs from 1 band for a 14 episode season. 7 songs for Sebastian and 7 songs for Mike.Season 1 we will be talking all things Metallica!!
Mar 4, 2024
27 min