61. (NOTE: GRAPHIC CONTENT) Sean Inderbitzen Discusses Sufjan Stevens, Illinois

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NOTES: This episode includes some discussion of graphic and disturbing lyrics during the section on the track, “John Wayne Gacy, Jr.,” beginning at the 9:47 mark.

Also, there were some issues with audio quality on this episode. I apologize for the quality in some spots and hope you can bear with them (I think you’ll find it’s worth it!).

Behavioral health therapist Sean Inderbitzen joins Al for this episode, as he introduces him to Sufjan Stevens’ critically-acclaimed 2005 album, Illinois. Sean discusses why he chose this album and how he came to love it. Sean also delves into how he sees the album’s songs as a reflection of the times they were created in and the more timeless meaning that they hold for him.

1:32 Sean joins the show

1:44 Al explains how he and Sean know each other

3:28 Al consciously avoided listening to Sufjan Stevens’ work

4:21 It took Sean several years to appreciate Sufjan’s work

6:12 “Chicago” was the gateway for Sean “getting” this album

9:47 Sean is fascinated by “John Wayne Gacy, Jr.” (WARNING: Includes discussion of graphic and disturbing lyrics)

14:50 Sean and Al have a hard time finding something to compare Illinois to

18:59 The intensity of Illinois reflects the time in which it was made

22:09 Sean reflects more on the message of “John Wayne Gacy, Jr.”

Reactions to additional tracks

24:00 Casimir Pulaski Day

26:21 Concerning the UFO Sighting near Highland, Illinois

30:22 A Short Reprise for Mary Todd, Who Went Insane, but for Very Good Reasons

32:34 Prairie Fire That Wanders About

33:52 Casimir Pulaski Day (again)

34:55 The Predatory Wasp of the Palisades Is Out to Get Us!

35:31 Chicago (again)

39:48 Come On! Feel the Illinoise!

46:32 Why didn’t Sean choose a Machine Gun Kelly album?

48:26 Digging further into the album will require more than the usual effort for Al

50:11 Sean talks about a project he’s excited about

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