“There are no bad episodes of Odyssey.” The singular exception to that rule is up for debate as Ryan and I delve into “The Team.” Split between dozens of plot inconsistencies and Ryan’s holding out hope on the word “commit,” we attempt to justify our criticism of one of the most controversial episodes in the history of the show.
REVIEW — “The Decision” (ft. Ryan Matlock)
It’s been exactly 600 days since the first review in the post-Blackgaard saga on AIO Audio News. Now, at long last, Ryan Matlock is here with me to review the final episode in the arc, “The Decision.” And just like the very first one… I’m sick again.
REVIEW — “Solitary Refinement” (ft. Ryan Matlock)
Why is Eugene waging a battle with geese? Find out on the latest edition of AIO Revinews, as Ryan and I discuss the impeccable “Solitary Refinement.” In this very focused podcast, we talk about Bernard’s criticism of Eugene, the connection of Whit’s storyline with Eugene’s, monk stereotyping done well, and Katrina’s maturity filtered through Eugene’s subconsciousness. And a few games of goose solitaire here and there.
REVIEW — “Clara” (ft. Ryan Matlock)
How could the return of John Whittaker become even more impactful than it has been so far? The answer is “Clara.” On this review on AIO Audio News of the next post-Blackgaard episode, Ryan and I delve into this masterpiece of a story, and along with a lengthy discussion on modern-day AIO character development, we break down one of Phil Lollar’s best emotional scripts and one of Paul Herlinger’s best performances. And while it still takes 100 minutes to slog through, the third installment in the return of the Revi-niews should be worth the wait.
REVIEW — “Home, Sweet Home” (ft. Ryan Matlock)
Whit returns to Odyssey and Ryan and I are here to talk about everything that is remotely connected to the episode “Home, Sweet Home” in this review on AIO Audio News. We’re back to covering the post-Blackgaard arc, which means we have a lot of story to catch up on, a lot of character development to cover, a lot of tangents to take, and a lot of jokes to make… but no red meat.
REVIEW — “The Ties That Bind, Part 6” (ft. Ryan Matlock)
Buckle up. We’ve reached the Train Room scene in the review series of The Ties That Bind, and the thesis of the album has been laid bare. Ryan and I are here to go to the mat on picking apart every piece of this episode and album, and we hold nothing back in our candid but tasteful discussion of the issues at hand. Be forewarned that no stone is left unturned, and some listeners may be put off by my viewpoints. It’s a long but important discussion as we unpack just why The Ties That Bind is one of the most controversial series in Adventures in Odyssey.
REVIEW — “The Seven Deadly Dwarves” (ft. Lee Acim)
Lee Acim makes a surprising return to AIO Audio News to join Michael in reviewing the next episode of the post-Blackgaard arc, “The Seven Deadly Dwarves.” The twins discuss Bethany’s telepathic storytelling powers, exegetical hermeneutics on the Biblical references, HAL 9000, and pulchritude.
Parental Warning: This podcast may not be suitable for listeners under the age of 3.
REVIEW — “The Ties That Bind, Part 5” (ft. Ryan Matlock)
We are back again continuing The Ties That Bind! In Part 5, as the plot continues to move forward, Ryan and I start to cement our critiques of the series as we discuss the vague dialogue, Miss Adelaide’s strange characterization, the faceless opposition, Wooton’s trust of Hadley, reconciliation (and Morrie), and steamed hams!
Please note that we do talk candidly about the themes and issues brought up in these episodes.
Binary Rating Spreadsheet (Beta): Google Sheets
REVIEW — “The Rydell Revelations” (ft. Rachel and Josh Strnad)
The long-anticipated review of “The Rydell Revelations” with Rachel and Josh from the Return to Odyssey podcast has arrived … and it’s unlike any other review of the three-parter. Nothing is held back as the couple presents the case that this end of the Rydell Saga is the worst possible outcome for the series, with flaws ranging from plot deficiencies, broken characterization, and the betrayal of the integrity of John Avery Whittaker.
REVIEW — “The Right Choice, Part 2” (ft. Hannah Matlock)
The oft referenced but rarely featured Hannah Matlock joins her husband and me to review the second episode in this fascinating two-parter, “The Right Choice, Part 2.” Now that both parts are in, we assess Eugene’s behavior and its lasting implications, Katrina’s reactions to the situation, and how Whit’s storyline provides a curious parallel to the main plot. And also roosters. And organic food.