7 chapters across the catalog
Studio Noisemakers, Slide Whistles, and Musical Instruments
A detailed inventory of studio noisemakers is provided, including slide whistles, harmonicas, kazoos, duck calls, and electronic soundboards. The hosts demonstrate various items used for transitions and accents during the show, noting that these physical props add a "Spike Jones" element to the broadcast.
Listener Francois Carstens reports that Google is flagging John Dvorak's website as hacked, which the hosts dismiss as a tactic to force the use of Google Webmaster Tools. In appreciation of the donation, John Dvorak performs a harmonica solo while Adam Curry provides a "smooth radio voice" introduction in the style of a light FM station.
Non-Visual Queuing, Harmonica Practice and Listening Skills
The hosts explain how they have developed non-visual queuing techniques to compensate for not being in the same room. Dvorak mentions his ongoing practice with the harmonica, hoping to eventually use it for on-air "hits." They conclude that the "theater of the mind" created by their audio-only format is a unique skill that requires intense listening from both the hosts and the audience.
Producer Donations, Russell Brand Critique
Producers from Glasgow and Quebec sent donations, with one listener criticizing the "Jesus-lite" persona of Russell Brand. The segment also addresses a "complainer" on Facebook who left the show due to the use of harmonica and whistling sounds. The hosts reiterate that their "call to action" is simply the continued support of the show's independent model.
Adam Curry and John C. Dvorak open the 650th episode of No Agenda, marking the final broadcast from Curry's Wi-Fi enabled canal house in Amsterdam. The hosts discuss Dvorak's harmonica playing, referencing Dutch musician Toots Tielemans and the theme from Midnight Cowboy. They also touch on Supertramp's "Take the Long Way Home" as potential inspiration for future show segments.
Harmonica Complaints and Host Relationship Dynamics
A listener email from "Mike C." complains about the piercing volume of the harmonica during the show, particularly for those using earbuds. This leads to a broader discussion about the hosts' "magical formula" of collaboration and Dvorak's occasionally dismissive attitude toward Curry. Curry recounts meeting two law librarians in Austin who praised the show's legal analysis and the hosts' unique partnership.
Adam Curry reports from Amsterdam while John C. Dvorak remains in Northern Silicon Valley. Dvorak compares the sound quality of a Chinese-made harmonica to a German Hohner model, expressing dissatisfaction with the former. Curry describes his arrival in the Netherlands following a long flight from the United States.
