On episode 423 of Friends Talking Nerdy, Professor Aubrey and Tim the Nerd dive into the sonic world of keyboards — not the clacky kind you’re typing on, but the kind that can make a rock anthem soar or turn a groove into pure magic. Each host shares their personal top five tracks that showcase the power of keys.
Professor Aubrey’s picks span from Billy Preston’s legendary turn on The Beatles’ “Get Back”, to Stevie Wonder’s funk-defining “Superstition”, the haunting post-punk of Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart”, MGMT’s psychedelic anthem “Kids”, and the shimmering dance beat of Arcade Fire’s “Sprawl II.”
Tim the Nerd counters with his own heavy-hitting lineup: The Who’s stadium-shaking “Baba O’Riley”, Van Halen’s synth-laden “I’ll Wait”, Ray Charles’ groundbreaking “What’d I Say”, Queen’s operatic masterpiece “Bohemian Rhapsody”, and The Doors’ moody classic “Riders On The Storm.”
Listeners can head over to the Friends Talking Nerdy website and cast their vote for whose playlist reigns supreme.
But the episode doesn’t stop there. Professor Aubrey shares her firsthand impressions of the 2025 Oregon Country Fair, bringing listeners along for the sights, sounds, and eccentricities of Oregon’s most beloved countercultural gathering.
Then, buckle up, because Tim the Nerd closes the show with a spoiler-packed deep dive into James Gunn’s new film Superman — his take on the story, characters, surprises, and what it means for the future of DC films.
From keyboards to country fairs to Krypton’s last son, this episode covers it all with the trademark mix of nerdy passion and playful banter that makes Friends Talking Nerdy a must-listen.
As always, we wish to thank Christopher Lazarek for his wonderful theme song. Head to his website for information on how to purchase his EP, Here's To You, which is available on all digital platforms.
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