#182 – Rocky Raccoon with Celeste Faia (PhD candidate in Microbiology and Immunology)

Even though the Fabs had shown some affinity for country, it’s on the White Album where they dive headfirst. Paul’s turn at spinning a country story comes via “Rocky Raccoon,” one of the numerous songs written by the band in India early in 1968. Leaning on a cheeky, twangy vocal, the tale of Rocky, Dan, and Lil has a bit of everything: a love triangle, a shootout, a drunk doctor who doesn’t appear to actually help Rocky with his gunshot wound. Thankfully, he finds a Bible in his room and then….we don’t know! Does he ride of into the sunset? Does he die? TELL US PAUL! This week, we’re taking everyone to school, and keeping in it in the fam. We’re joined by Celeste Faia, a PhD candidate studying microbiology and immunology, a budding casual singer and painter, and also, Julia’s cousin, and one of our closest people. We thought it’d be fun to shine a light on science for a change, and boy do we. We discuss everything from the science of the Covid vaccine, the chemical results of the Beatles’ drug use, entering the Beatles’ catalog via the Anthology, a history of the Gideons, whether or not Rocky Raccoon is a cowboy dude, or a human-sized Raccoon-man hybrid. Also, Julia’s tired all the time, and one time Jonathan was attacked by a raccoon. It’s a wild time. What do you think? Too high? To low? Just right? Be sure to follow along, leave your comments, and join in on the discussion on the rankings at Facebook (facebook.com/rankingthebeatles), on Twitter at @rankingbeatles, and on Instagram @rankingthebeatles. Enjoying the show and want to show your support? Check out https://anchor.fm/rankingthebeatles/support!