Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
WMM presents Kate McCandless & Cody Wyoming for SHE SPEAKS IN TONGUES submits: PJ Harvey’s To Bring You My Love + The Electric Lungs + Jamogi
Mark features more New & MidCoastal releases from: The Roseline, Various Blonde, Mireya Ramos & The Poor Choices and Trevor Turla, Jamogi, IVORY BLUE, The Electric Lungs, Freight Train Rabbit Killer, The Philistines, SHE SPEAKS IN TONGUES, PJ Harvey, Loraine James, and L’Rain.
At 10:30, we’ll talk with Jamogi Bridges a KC based singer, songwriter, MC, producer, originally from Los Angeles, California. Jamogi’s music is a fusion of soulful R&B melodies with infectious pop beats and dance-floor grooves. Jamogi released his debut single, “Celebration” on December 30, 2022. Jamogi delivered his debut EP, AGE OF AQUARIUS on March 3, 2023. Jamogi followed up with his latest EP, STAR-CROSSED LOVER, on March 3, 2023, followed by a “Star-Crossed Lover GALACTIC REMIX (feat. Watchman)” single on June 9, 2023. Jamogi played the 19th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, on August 26, 2023. More info at: https://linktr.ee/Jamogi
At 11:00 AM Kate McCandless & Cody Wyoming join us to share details about SHE SPEAKS IN TONGUES submits: PJ Harvey’s To Bring You My Love W/ THE CODY WYOMING DEAL, Friday, October 20, 8:00 PM at The Brick, 1727 McGee, KCMO. Featuring 50ft. QUEENIE. SHE SPEAKS IN TONGUES is Kate McCandless on vocals, performance, percussion. CODY WYOMING DEAL is Cody Wyoming on guitar, organ, synth, & backing vocal; Matt Richey on drums; Justin Muschinske on bass, baritone, organ, guitar, & synth; J. Howell on guitar, prepared guitar, & sound design; Katie Gilchrist on backing vocals, percussion & keyboards; Rachel Fuentes on cello; and Joanna Metsker on violin. 50ft. QUEENIE is Amy Farrand on vocals; Katie Gilchrist on vocals; Julie Berndsen on vocals; Chris Meck on guitar, Brandon Phillips on guitar, Adam Phillips on drums, Chris Wagner on bass. More info at: http://www.shespeaksintongues.com
At 11:30, Mark talks with Tripp Kirby of The Electric Lungs. Tripp Kirby has been playing in bands for over 20 years and is celebrating 10 full years with The Electric Lungs. He has released music with multiple projects including the KC “cowpunk band,” Them Damned Young Livers, and his solo project, Fire Beats Plague. Formed with Eric Jones, Jason Ulanet, and Marc Bollinger in 2012, The Electric Lungs released their breakthrough album, SIMPLIFIED AND CIVILIZED in 2013 followed by DON’T BE ASHAMED OF THE WAY THAT YOU WERE MADE in 2015, and the EP, THE ELECTRIC LUNGS in 2018. The Electric Lungs have played Folk Alliance International Conference, Middle of the Map Festival, Westport Roots Festival, Mid-Coast Takeover in Austin, and Apocalypse Meow 15. The Electric Lungs are releasing their fourth studio effort, WHERE I GO FOR WHERE I AM, on October 17, 2023. More info at: http://www.theelectriclungs.bandcamp.com
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
WMM presents Fearless Women: Karen Lisondra & GHOST LIGHT + Bitch + Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre & Nicolette Paige
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Hannah Jadagu – “What You Did” from: Aperture / Sub Pop Records / May 19, 2023 [Fresh out of high school, Hannah Jadagu released her debut EP, What Is Going On?, a collection of intimate bedroom pop tracks recorded entirely on an iPhone 7, which was, at the time, Jadagu’s most accessible mode of production. An off-the-cuff approach to music making and instinctive ability to write unforgettable hooks belied the intensity of Jadagu’s subject matter. In a short run time, What Is Going On? confronts some of the nation’s most urgent struggles all through Jadagu’s compassionate perspective. “I want my songs to be both super intimate and still universally relatable,” Jadagu says. “With the EP, so many people told me that the songs resonated with them on a personal level, and that’s what I’m always hoping for.” // Resonate it did; What Is Going On? is Jadagu’s first Sub Pop release, but she’d been putting out music on SoundCloud for years, garnering a small online fanbase as she settled into an aesthetic, and recognition from a broader audience was overdue. “It really took off when I became a percussionist in my middle school’s band,” she says. “Writing songs started as a hobby and quickly became a passion to the point that I spent all my free time recording.” // On May 19th, 2023 Jadagu premiered Aperture, her first LP and most ambitious work to date. Written in the years between graduating from high school in Mesquite, TX and her sophomore year of college in New York, Aperture finds Jadagu in a state of transition. “Where I grew up, everyone is Christian; even if you don’t go to church, you’re still practicing in some form,” Jadagu says, laughing. “Moving out of my small hometown has made me reflect on how embedded Christianity is in the culture down there, and though I’ve been questioning my relationship to the church since high school, it’s definitely a theme on this album, but so is family.” // As a kid, Jadagu followed her older sister – a major source of inspiration who she refers to as “the blueprint” – to a local children’s chorus, where she received choral training. “I hated it,” Jadagu admits. “But it taught me how to harmonize, how to discover my tone, how to recognize and write melody.” The aching single “Admit It” is dedicated to Jadagu’s sister, whose boundless love and impeccable taste has been a constant for Jadagu ever since she was a kid. At home, the siblings were raised on mom’s Young Money mixtapes and the Black Eyed Peas (to whom she credits her love of vocoder) but it was in the sanctity of her sister’s car that Jadagu discovered indie artists who would go on to inspire her work. // “Lose” showcases Jadagu’s love of contemporary indie auteurs as it weaves a spare and unpretentious guitar riff with barebones piano chords all while Jadagu sings about the thrill and underlying fear that comes with beginning a new relationship. It is, in her words, a “classic pop song.” “The things we haven’t done/ Play out in my mind/ Would you just give me time?” she sings, nearing the end, as the skittering drumbeat propels the song from a place of contemplative yearning to defiance. “Every track on this album, except for “Admit It”, was written first on guitar, which is an instrumental throughline,” Jadagu says. “But the blanket of synths I use throughout helps me move between sensibilities. There’s rock Hannah, there’s hip-hop Hannah, and so on. I didn’t want any of the songs to sound too alike.” // Emblematic of this ethos is the single “Warning Sign,” which starts out as an acoustic, R&B slowburner before a muscular electric guitar enters the mix and the song morphs into something akin to psychedelic. “I knew I could make another album on my phone, but I wanted to make sure that I was leveling up, especially for the debut,” Jadagu says. So she began the difficult process of searching for a co-producer capable of complementing her work without dominating it. Enter Max Robert Baby, a French songwriter and producer who captured Jadagu’s attention with his take on Aperture’s lead single “Say It Now.” The duo worked together remotely, sending stems to one another via email, before eventually meeting in-person for the first time at Greasy Studios on the outskirts of Paris. // “When I recorded my EP, it was all MIDI, but in the studio Max and I worked with a ton of analog instruments,” Jadagu says. “There’s some Glockenspiel on the album, calling back to my percussionist days, and some synth warping that adds texture.” While What Is Going On? was heavy on layered reverb, making Jadagu’s vocals feel “shy,” she took what she calls a more “intimate, up close” approach while recording her voice for the LP. That experimentation is best heard on the rousing “What You Did,” which leverages crushing accusations against the song’s unnamed subject. Screaming static and a crunchy guitar part softens under Jadagu’s calm delivery as she sings: “Act like it’s best if we make amends, but I don’t wanna talk to you again.” // An aperture is strictly defined as an opening, a hole, a gap. On a camera, it’s the mechanism that light passes through, allowing a photographer to immortalize a moment in time. For Jadagu, the word perfectly encapsulates the mood of her debut album. In the years it took her to complete, she faced moments of darkness, sure, but the process of making it, her first ever in a professional studio, was ultimately a cathartic experience, one she now shares with you, the listener. Let the light in.] [Hannah Jadagu played the Bottleneck in Lawrence Kansas on Friday, September 29, 2023]
Sweeping Promises – “Shadow Me” from: Good Living is Coming For You / Feel it Records – Sub Pop / June 30, 2023 [“For more than a half century, underground music revolutionaries have taken a whack at the mundane mainstream like a piñata. England punks spat “NO FUTURE” at germ-free adolescents. Ohio new wavers devolutionized mankind with whips. Athens art school students chomped at hero worship. MetroCard-carrying riot grrrls rebirthed the bomp with a gasoline gut. In 2020, Sweeping Promises read our pandemic minds with Hunger for a Way Out. In 2023, they return with a new message: Good Living Is Coming For You. At first glance, this nouveau wave slogan offers hope wrapped around relief. At first listen, we realize this may actually be a warning. Darker still, a threat. // A band famous for their unfussy, monolithic anthems, Sweeping Promises elegantly ravage us again with another future classic. They return as a fist of velvet rose petals roaring inside a compact wrecking ball. Gone is the Boston brutalist ambience of their subterranean concrete laboratory and the revelatory single mic recording technique. In its place, a retired and resplendent nude painting studio in Lawrence, Kansas, bathed in light with high ceilings and hardwood floors. Guided once again by their surrounding architecture, a reverb-rich space remains the defining element at the heart of their highly stylized sound. A watery ghost from the golden age of art-punk now wields sharper knives and more microphones. // If the mood of HFAWO was hungry, GLICFY is RAVENOUS. In 2023, appetite is addressed in new ways: Power struggles are aired in “Eraser,” restraints are broken in “You Shatter,” anguished excla-mations sting in “Good Living Is Coming for You.” The taboo subject of aging is (s)heroically dragged out into the open. Every line is delivered with such joyous, soaring layers that each punch lands like a chef’s kiss. // Sweeping Promises are Lira Mondal and Caufield Schnug. A chance meeting in Arkansas led to a decade of playing in an eclectic assortment of projects together. Their relentless practice made perfect. Bass playing Lira is an emotive bolt of thunderous energy with the iconic blast of a girl group rolled into one robust throat. Caufield is an intentional guitar player and drummer. No note or hit is extraneous. Together they are meticulous sound engineers, using space as a key ingredient to their distinct sound. Controlling every aspect of their craft, from the first note they write together, all the way through to the final mastering process, each record is an unspoiled fingerprint unique to their dynamic chemistry. // Written before the pandemic, Hunger for a Way Out was released on Feel It Records in 2020. The songs drip with the anxious urgency of a commanding live performance yet their gauzy production transports us like the fading memory of a favorite song. This distorted sense of time resonated with thousands of quarantined listeners who turned the album into a life-saving floatation device and most beloved album of the year. This is when Feel It Records (North America) and Sub Pop (everywhere else) joined forces to divide/unite and conquer; beginning with the 2021 single “Pain Without a Touch” and now carrying through to G.L.I.C.F.Y.. // The pandemic went on to trigger an absurd chain of events for Sweeping Promises. Under financial strain, Mondal & Schnug uprooted their lives, and surrendered their studio in Cambridge to take refuge with family in Texas. They completed over 50 demos between their Austin bathroom and a Marfa abode, but feeling unsatisfied, they sought another fresh start. When a disused church in Ohio proved too difficult to rehab, they ultimately found lasting inspiration in Kansas. With their home & studio all under one roof, life is music & music is life. // G.L.I.C.F.Y. ultimately reflects being thrust into a severely unpredictable world. A capsized boat isn’t entirely bad. In fact, it can be the necessary push toward finding solid ground.” – Tracy Wilson (Courtesy Desk) ]
[Sweeping Promises play Outer Reaches Fest, on Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/, Keo & Them, Static Phantoms]
10:06 – Pledge Break #1
Thanks for tuning into WMM on 90.1 FM KKFI. I’m Mark Manning. Today WMM features 15 Fearless Women w/ New & MidCoastal Releases from: Heidi Lynne Gluck, Jass & The Boys, Keo & Them, Julia Othmer, Crys Matthews, Bitch, Samara Joy, Karla Thomas, Meshell Ndegeocello, Joni Mitchell. We started w/ Hannah Jadagu, & Sweeping Promises.
At 11:00 we talk with Karen Lisondra, Associate Director of Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s 4th Annual GHOST LIGHT: A Haunted Night of Songs & Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads with two outdoor performances October 13 and 14 in Roanoke Park, 3601 Roanoke Road, KCMO, with performances by poets Glenn North and Mary Silwance, and Black Light Animals, Jass, Julia Othmer and more.
At 11:30 we’ll talk LIVE with singer songwriter Bitch who released her acclaimed album BITCHCRAFT, the long-standing queer icon’s 9th studio album. Bitch first achieved notoriety as one half of the queer folk duo Bitch and Animal. In the mid 2000s, Bitch went solo, and shared stages with the Indigo Girls, acted in the John Cameron Mitchell film Shortbus, co-wrote a song with Margaret Cho, produced two albums of her elder folk hero Ferron, and licensed her music to The L Word. Bitch will play recordBar on Sunday, October 15 at 7:00 PM with Folk Music award winning artist, Crys Matthews.
We take break to encourage YOU to support 90.1 FM KKFI. To help me, is my friend…
Marion Merritt is our most frequent contributor to WMM, She grew up in Los Angeles, and St. Louis. She went to college in Columbia, Missouri. She studied art and musical engineering, and is a avid lover of classic films and punk rock music. She saw Talking Heads on their first U.S. tour when they played One Block West in 1978. For nearly 20 years she has been sharing her musical discoveries and information from her musically-encyclopedic brain on Wednesday MidDay Medley. With her partner Ann Stewart, Marion is the proprietor of Records With Merritt, a minority owned business at 1614 Westport Rd. in Kansas City, that features new vinyl releases, in-store performances,, and was once the location for a wedding. More information at: http://www.recordwithmerritt.com
Marion Merritt, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Also with us is Joelle St. Pierre, a friend of the show, a friend of mine since the early 1990s when we worked together at Cafe Lulu. Joelle is a super volunteer for 90.1 FM KKFI, helping with KKFI’s special events, the Crossroads Music Festival, answering phones for our On-Air-Fund Drives, being a “Listener Evaluator” for KKFI’s Program Evaluation Initiative. Joelle works full time for an Insurance Company but also finds time to volunteer for Midwest Music Foundation, Folk Alliance International, and several other charity organization.Joelle helped me build two 18-raised bed gardens for schools in KCK, and also helped water gardens for several years. Poet Kahlil Gibran notes that “Music is the language of the Spirit. It opens the secret of life bringing peace, abolishing strife”.
Joelle St. Pierre, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Nicolette Paige released her debut album, NICOLETTE PAIGE on May 2, 2008, and her 11-song album, THE OTHER SIDE on October 19, 2012. Those were followed by five singles. Nicolette is the owner and founder of Soul Child Awakenings, where she combines her musical talents with her healing practices. She brings her gifts to schools, hospitals, and elderly care centers, providing participants with hand-held instruments and integrating indigenous healing practices into her sessions. In the past three weeks Nicolette Paige headlined the Gaea Goddess Gathering Festival in Waynesville, Missouri., opened the Art In The Park Festival in Lawrence, KS. And perform for Farm Fest last Saturday, at The KC Farm School at Gibbs Road in KCK. More at: http://www.SoulChildAwakenings.com
Nicolette Paige thank you for being our guest on WMM
90.1 FM KKFI is “Radio Powered By Diversity” For 35 Years our Kansas City Area Community Speaks Through our Airwaves and this Program.
So far in 2023 on WMM we have conducted over 125 interviews with 118 special guests: Karen Lisondra, Bitch, Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre, Nicolette Paige, Dedric Moore, Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, Nathan Reusch, Krysztof Nemeth, Jennifer Owen, Stacy Busch, Marty Bush, Spencer Brown aka Daisy Buckët, IV0RY BLUE, Alyssa Murray, Mica-Elgin Vi, Noah Bartelt, Shaun Crowley, Jeffrey Stolz, Wallace Cochran, Betty Berry, Scott Easterday, Cody Wyoming, Mara Rose Williams, Nick Carswell, Fally Afani, Dan Jones, Steve Tulipana, Miki P, Mireya Ramos, Trevor Turla, Bill Sundahl, Jocelyn Olivia Nixon, Sophia and Analiese of The Black Mariah Theater, JNabe, Danny Alexander, Michael B. Tipton, Mark Meisenheimer, Tillie Hall, Joy Zimmerman, Paris Williams, Zava, Kevin Willmott, Mark von Schlemmer, Heidi Gluck, Nate Holt, Kirsten Paludan, Jade Osborne, Alisön Hawkins, Fritz Hutchison, Audrey Crabtree, Beth Byrd, Chip Ashby, Stephanie Iszory, Jass, Clarence Copridge, Calvin Arsenia, Kirstie Lynn, Galen Clark, Chris Haghirian, Nico Gray, Mike McCoy, Madisen Ward, Mikal Shapiro, Jen Harris, Stephonne, Betse Ellis, Luke Harbur, Julia Reynolds, Andrew Connor, Ryan Connor, Bill Belzer, Krystle Warren, Mike Dillon, Malek Azreal, Philip Dickey, Elyshya “Millz” Miller, Ethan Eckert, Sondra Freeman, Alicia Ellingsworth, Patrick Sprehe, Kate McCandless, Megan Birdsall, Michael Andrew Smith, Jess Shoman of Tenci, April Fletcher, Brad Cox, Necia Gamby, Iris DeMent, Kelly Dougherty, Audrey Bramlett, Erika Cecilia, Paul Jesse, Deegan Poores, Gayle Cade-Price, Patrick Sumner, Aaron Rhodes, Frank Loose Jr., Kurt Witt, Tim Miller, Anthony Cruz, Olivia “Liv” Wyrick of Cardio Party, Aisha Kahlil, Hermon Mehari, Nan Turner, Elizabeth Suh, Howie Howard, Nani Noam Vazana, Kelley Hunt, Rachael Sage, Michelle Bacon, Devon Teran, and Aaron Mitchum.
10:14 – Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell – “Both Sides Now” from: AT NEWPORT / Rhino / July 28, 2023 [Roberta Joan “Joni” Mitchell was born November 7, 1943. She is soon to be 80 years old. She is one of the most influential singer-songwriters of all time, known for her starkly personal lyrics and unconventional compositions which grew to incorporate pop and jazz elements. She has received 10 Grammy Awards, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997. AllMusic has stated, “When the dust settles, Joni Mitchell may stand as the most important and influential female recording artist of the late 20th century”. //On March 2015, Mitchell suffered a brain aneurysm rupture, which required her to undergo physical therapy and take part in daily rehabilitation. Mitchell made her first public appearance following the aneurysm when she attended a Chick Corea concert in Los Angeles in August 2016. She made a few other appearances, and in November 2018 David Crosby said that she was learning to walk again.// Joni Mitchell stunned the Newport Folk Festival audience last summer when she gave a surprise performance – her first in 20 years – delivering a heartfelt set filled with some of her greatest songs. // Mitchell’s triumphant return to the stage on July 24, 2022, is featured on a new live album from Rhino, AT NEWPORT, available on July 28, 2023 on CD and 2-LP black vinyl. Produced by close collaborator Brandi Carlile, along with Mitchell. // Mitchell was joined on stage at the Newport Folk Festival by a star-studded band led by Carlile, the 9x GRAMMY®-winning singer/songwriter. Other performers included Carlile’s bandmates Phil and Tim Hanseroth, Wynonna Judd, Marcus Mumford, Celisse, Jess Wolfe and Holly Laessig of Lucius, Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes, and more. // Mitchell delighted the audience, blending her voice with the other singers on stage on classics like “Big Yellow Taxi,” “A Case Of You,” and “Both Sides Now.” For good measure, she even flashed her guitar prowess, playing a solo instrumental version of “Just Like This Train.” // In his liner notes for AT NEWPORT, Cameron Crowe writes about Mitchell’s arduous and miraculous recovery from a life-threatening brain aneurysm in 2015, that led to her emotional return at Newport. // “Mitchell emerged from the side of the stage, swaying smoothly, in fine summer-style with beret and sunglasses. Her good-natured mood instantly set the tone. This performance would be an intimate gathering of friends, not unlike the Joni Jams she’d been hosting in her own living room over the last few years of recovery. Smiling broadly, Mitchell made her surprise appearance, taking her on-stage seat alongside Carlile. Within minutes, the news had rocketed around the globe. Mitchell was back, sparkling with enthusiasm, delivering a tender and passionate set of 13 songs, ending with a joyful sing-along of ‘The Circle Game.’” // On June 10, 2023, Mitchell headlined a once-in-a-lifetime “Joni Jam” at the Gorge Amphitheater in Quincy, Washington, with special guest Brandi Carlile. Mitchell’s first ticketed show in 20 years, the concert sold-out immediately when it was announced last in the fall of 2022. // Mitchell’s ongoing return to the public eye continued in March when she was awarded the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song at an all-star tribute concert in Washington, D.C. The show featured performances by James Taylor, Graham Nash, Annie Lennox, Herbie Hancock, Cyndi Lauper, Angelique Kidjo, Ledisi, and Diana Krall, along with several artists from the Newport concert, including Carlile. The concert – “Joni Mitchell: The Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song” – was broadcast on PBS stations on Friday, March 31.]
Joni Mitchell – You Turn Me On I’m a Radio (with Neil Young & The Stray Gators) [For the Roses Early Sessions] from: Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 3: The Asylum Years (1972-1975) / Rhino / Oct. 6, 2023 [Come 1972, Joni Mitchell’s singular songwriting talent and poetic gifts were undeniable. Fresh off the back-to-back Platinum-certified releases of 1970’s Ladies of the Canyon and 1971’s Blue (totemic albums whose artfulness and ubiquity would influence generations of songwriters) Mitchell had grown wary of mounting media scrutiny. Everything from her style choices to romantic partners became the subject of far more gossip column inches than were ever dedicated to the lifestyle minutiae of her male counterparts. // In response, she had pulled back, announcing an early retirement from the stage in 1970 and moving to the quiet expanses of British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. It was a fruitful change of scenery. Inspired by her proximity to nature and refreshed by the peaceful seclusion, she began constructing the songs that would become For The Roses. This respite thrust Mitchell into a remarkably fertile creative period, yielding a run of albums — 1972’s For The Roses, 1974’s Court And Spark, and 1975’s The Hissing Of Summer Lawns — that would simultaneously expand and refine the scope of her music. Her adventurous, intricate arrangements and growing formidability as a bandleader injected these songs with a clarity of purpose, a potent muscularity, and a sense of possibility — it is among the most exciting eras of a near peerless career. // This era comes into even greater focus on Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 3: The Asylum Years (1972-1975), out October 6, 2023 on Rhino Records. It’s the latest entry in Rhino’s ongoing, GRAMMY® Award-winning series exploring the vast untapped archives of rare Joni Mitchell recordings — a project guided intimately by Mitchell’s own vision and personal touch. Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 3: The Asylum Years (1972-1975) will be available both in a 5CD / digital version and a 4LP cut-down version, both with an accompanying book featuring photos and a conversation about this period between Joni Mitchell and longtime friend Cameron Crowe. // As Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963-1967) — which won a 2022 GRAMMY® Award for Best Historical Album — and Vol. 2: The Reprise Years (1968-1971) did, Vol. 3 boasts an embarrassment of riches. The collection begins with an early cut of “Cold Blue Steel And Sweet Fire,” one of two songs (along with “For The Roses”) test-driven during a visit to a Graham Nash David Crosby recording session at Wally Heider’s in Hollywood. // From there, listeners are treated to early demos and alternate versions from sessions from For The Roses, Court & Spark, and The Hissing Of Summer Lawns; historic live show recordings, including the entirety of Mitchell’s triumphant 1972 return to Carnegie Hall and a definitive gig with her Court And Spark backing band Tom Scott & the L.A. Express; and tracks from sessions cut alongside James Taylor, Graham Nash, and Neil Young. // As she approaches her 80th birthday later this year, Joni Mitchell is reaffirming the vitality and resonance of her music. Last month, she released At Newport, a live album commemorating her incredible comeback performance at the 2022 Newport Folk Festival. Pitchfork described it as “a joyous surprise, a moment of wonder,” while NPR Music says it “[shows] Mitchell’s legacy in action and how younger generations of musicians carry forth her spirit of imagination and fearless reconfiguration.” // Back in June, Mitchell held her first ticketed performance in over 20 years at a sold-out Gorge Amphitheatre in Quincy, WA. Rolling Stone called it “The triumph of the human spirit we all desperately craved…a powerful celebration of Mitchell’s life and resiliency.”] [For The Roses was originally released on Asylum Records in November 1972. Joni Mitchell originally wrote the song “You Turn Me On I’m A Radio” in response to her record label’s desire for her to write a hit song. Mitchell reveals her purpose on lines such as, “And I’m sending you out this signal here, I hope you can pick it up loud and clear”. She believed that including words in the song about radio themes would convince stations to play the recording. The song was recorded in preparation for Mitchell’s upcoming fifth studio album in Hollywood, California, United States at A&M Studios. Although Graham Nash, David Crosby, and Neil Young all contributed to the recording session for the song, only the harmonica piece performed by Graham Nash was included on the official release. “You Turn Me On, I’m a Radio” was released as a single in November 1972 via Asylum Records. The song became Mitchell’s first top-ten hit in Canada, reaching the tenth position on the RPM Top Singles chart. Additionally, the single became her first top-forty hit in the United States, reaching number twenty-five on the Billboard Hot 100. Outside North America, “You Turn Me On, I’m a Radio” peaked within the top-forty on the Australian Kent Music Report chart. The single was included on Mitchell’s fifth studio effort For the Roses, which was issued in November 1972. Released between her 2 biggest commercial and critical successes – “Blue” and “Court & Spark”. In 2007 it was one of 50 recordings chosen that year by the Library of Congress to be added to the National Recording Registry. “For the Roses” was Mitchell’s farewell to the business; she took an extended break for a year after. The album was critically acclaimed with The New York Times saying “Each of Mitchell’s songs on For the Roses is a gem glistening with her elegant way with language, her pointed splashes of irony & her perfect shaping of images. Never does Mitchell voice a thought or feeling commonly. She’s a songwriter and singer of genius who can’t help but make us feel we are not alone.”]
10:23 – Pledge Break #2
Our WMM Fall Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre, and Nicolette Paige.
Today on WMM we are celebrating 15 Fearless Women with musical tracks 12 of our Favorite New & MidCoastal musical releases and three incredible Guest Hosts who help keep Community Radio alive and on the air. 90.1 FM KKFI’s non-profit organization and governing body is the MidCoast Radio Project. MidCoastal is where we are, on the coasts of the Missouri and Kansas Rivers with a music community that spans the Kansas City Metro region and west to Lawrence and Topeka and south to Olathe and east to Columbia and North to St Joseph. Not necessarily the reach of our 100,000 watt signal but definitely the reach of our community.
WMM and KKFI are committed to featuring artists under-represented in other media, and that includes the music community that lives within Kansas City and Lawrence and the area radiance of our 100 watt signal. The story of Kansas City’s Arts and Music Community is our primary objective on WMM, where for over 19 + years we have shined a light on this music and the artists who create it, and that story also include the music labels who help get this music out into the community and beyond Kansas City. That story also includes the recording studios where this music is engineered and mastered.
Wednesday MidDay Medley 90.1 FM was the first radio show and first radio station to ever play many if these amazing musical artists. WMM was the first to play the recordings of: Calvin Arsenia, and Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear, and Krystle Warren, and The Black Creatures and KD Kuro, The Shy Boys, The Salvation Choir. We were the first to interview these artists live on the radio and bring their music to a wider audience.
Timothy Finn Kansas City area music writer named WMM “The Best Place to Hear Local Music on the Radio.” and the Best Place to hear area musicians talk about their music.
10:32
Keo & Them – “Fool Me Once” from: “Fool Me Once” – Single / Midtopia / October 6, 2023 Keo & Them released “Don’t Say: as a “single” with the tracks: “Be Still” and “Money Grooves (feat. Greg Spero) on June 2, 2023. Kei & Them are from Wichita, Kansas. // For Wichita-based, Texas-raised singer/songwriter Keo, making music is as much about the one creates and the songs one writes as it is about making deeper connections with the other people partaking in an artistic journey. From the unique flavors, perspectives, and performances they each contribute, Keo finds the “Them” that brings her project Keo & Them full circle. // First formed and conceptualized by Keo in 2018, the collective consists of Keo and a revolving door of musicians and collaborators, each of whose contributions would leave an indelible mark on the project’s ever-adapting sound that merges the worlds of 70’s pop and R&B with the moody glow of contemporary neo-soul and beyond. For Keo, the project’s sole constant member, the fluid line-up allowed her to become immersed and acquainted with a Wichita music scene she was completely new to and overwhelmed by. Through meeting, jamming, and performing with the Kansas town’s tight-knit and eclectic music scene in which Keo found something akin to a family. // With the band’s new EP, Don’t Say, finding that familial connection made for a crucial milestone, as the record is a deeply personal work that showcases Keo’s songwriting in a more vulnerable and brutally honest lens than ever before. As a result, the “Them” heard on Don’t Say consists of people Keo holds incredibly dear: Nathan Harrison (guitar), Cece Raheb (Bass), and Dexter McCoy(drums), with the latter two being part of Keo & Them’s first ever iteration. At its core Don’t Say is a record about acceptance of oneself within oneself, from the quirks that make us unique to the flaws and shortcomings that make us human beings. Between the soulful, somber sway of “Don’t Say,” to the stoic yet brutally honest self-reflection of “Be Still” and culminating in the funk-tinged, content confidence radiating throughout “Money Grooves”, Keo brings listeners along on a vulnerable story of self-growth wrapped in a three-track package of suave, cleverly arranged neo-soul. // More info at: http://www.keoandthem.com]
[Keo & Them play Outer Reaches Fest, on Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/ Sweeping Promises, Static Phantoms, Alyssa Murray]
Samara Joy – “Linger Awhile” from: Linger Awhile / Verve / September 16, 2022 [ With her GRAMMY-Award winning and chart-topping album, Linger Awhile, 23-year-old Samara Joy makes her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next mononymous jazz singing sensation recorded by the venerable Verve Records. Her voice, rich and velvety yet precociously refined, has already earned her legions of fans in addition to millions of likes on TikTok — cementing her status as perhaps the first Gen Z jazz singing star. In February 2023, Samara Joy took home two GRAMMYs – Best Jazz Vocal Album and the auspicious Best New Artist award.// Samara Joy McLendon, is known professionally as Samara Joy. She is an American jazz singer. She won the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition in 2019 and was named Best New Artist by Jazz Times for 2021. // A native of the Castle Hill section of the Bronx, Joy was born in 1999 into a musical family. Her paternal grandparents, Elder Goldwire and Ruth McLendon, were founders of Philadelphia gospel group The Savettes. Her father, a bass player who has toured with gospel singer/songwriter/producer Andraé Crouch, introduced her to gospel greats like The Clark Sisters, and soul & Motown were also a big presence in her home. // At Fordham High School for the Arts she performed with the jazz band, and won Best Vocalist at Fordham University’s “Essentially Ellington” competition at Lincoln Center. But she first encountered jazz in a meaningful way when she enrolled in the jazz program at SUNY’s Purchase College as a voice major, and was named an Ella Fitzgerald Scholar. Friends there introduced her to the great jazz vocalists like Sarah Vaughan and Fitzgerald and instrumentalists like Kenny Washington, Jon Faddis (with whom she studied) and Ingrid Jensen. While she was still in college, before the release of her 1st album, film director Regina King called her “a young woman who seems like Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald are both living in her body.” // In 2019, as Samara McLendon, she won the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. // Working with producer and eventual manager Matt Pierson, she recorded her self-titled debut album while still in college, graduating magna cum laude in 2021. Samara Joy was released on 9 July 2021 with Whirlwind Records. // On February 15, 2022 she performed on Today with guitarist Pasquale Grasso and performed again on Today in Sept. 2022. // She released a number of viral video performances, including one that had been viewed over 1.5 million times as of Oct. 2020.// In February 2021 she was featured in Women of Color on Broadway, Inc.’s music video of “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess and on jazz pianist Julius Rodriguez’s album Let Sound Tell All. // Jazz Times named her Best New Artist for 2021. // On June 15, 2022 she was featured at Carnegie Hall’s 16th Annual Notable Occasion. and appeared at the Newport Jazz Festival. On Sept. 16, 2022 she released her 2nd album, Linger Awhile, on Verve Records. The album features drummer Kenny Washington, guitarist Pasquale Grasso, pianist Ben Paterson, & bassist David Wong. // On Feb. 5, 2023, Samara Joy won 2 Grammy Awards, for Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album for Linger Awhile // A few weeks ago on September 8, 2023, Two-time GRAMMY-winner Samara Joy has returned with her new single “Tight.” Featuring Joy with her working band (pianist Luther Allison, bassist Mikey Migliore and drummer Evan Sherman), the track was recorded at the legendary Electric Lady Studios in NYC. Originally written by Betty Carter and a true showcase of Joy’s incredible range, “Tight” has been a fan favorite during Joy’s onstage sets. // The release of “Tight” continues a whirlwind year that saw Joy take home the auspicious Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album awards at this year’s GRAMMY’s. Joy also released the deluxe edition of her album Linger Awhile, which includes brand new music plus fan favorites like “Guess Who I Saw Today” and “Can’t Get Out Of This Mood.” // Since Samara’s breakout GRAMMY wins, Linger Awhile has reached #1 on Amazon Best Sellers, Billboard Jazz, Pandora Trendsetters, iTunes and Amazon’s digital-music and CD sales, and more. Samara has garnered over nearly 1 million followers on Instagram and TikTok, and tour dates all over the world have sold out. //.]
[Samara Joy plays The Folly Theatre, 300 W 12th St. KCMO on Saturday, October 14, 2023]
10:38 – Pledge Break #3
Our WMM Fall Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre, & Nicolette Paige
On June 28, 2023 about 15 weeks ago, Wednesday MidDay Medley celebrated 1000 Shows! 1000 weeks of broadcasts, with LIVE performances in our 90.1 FM Studios from: Madisen Ward, Mikal Shapiro, Calvin Arsenia, IVORY BLUE, Stephonne, Poet Jen Harris.
1000 weeks equaled 2000 hours of radio, 30,000 hours of preparation, over 2900 Interviews, 2500 guests, and over 20,000 songs, from thousands of musical artists. We have made it our mission to mix musical genres, playing with themes, diversity, equality, free speech, connecting artists and venues and listeners and communities. Wednesday MidDay Medley has proudly endeavored to help tell the story of our growing Kansas City area music scene, “The Midcoast Sound,” as we like to call it. We have dedicated a majority of our programming to New & MidCoastal Releases.
WMM has presented new formats in radio, with our “A Story In A Song” series, and our special shows featuring: Apocalypse Meow, Crossroads Music Fest, Folk Alliance, Manor Fest, International, The Outer Reaches Festival, Boulevardia. KC Fringe Festival, Owen Cox Dance Group, Bach Aria Soloists, KC Pride, and our annual tribute shows to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., David Bowie, Iris Dement, Pioneers of Punk, LGBTQIA Themes, Black Lives Matter and interviews with Tommy Ramone, Iris Dement, Laurie Anderson, Lily Tomlin. Plus, our annual 4-week special: WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of the Year.
To say we’ve been inspired by the KC music scene, is an understatement. The KC music community is fueled by a collaborative and generous heart that is beating in so many of the artists we’ve met while doing this show. We are inspired by the Fearless Women who created radio on 90.1 FM long before us: our friend April Fletcher who plays bass professionally in Los Angeles, and hosted Mix Well Before Serving on 90.1 in 1988 on KKFI’s first year of broadcast, and this year returned after 35 years to host and produce WMM. And our friend Anne Winter, who left us in 2009, and reminded us how we’re all connected. At Anne’s funeral we realized that we are connected to hundreds of other people who Anne had touched with her gentle, wise, guidance and had nudged into taking a job, going out on a stage, organzing an event, doing a radio show. We were all connected, she had loved us all and supported us, and some of us made a pact to do just a little bit of what Anne did, if we all did a little we could continue her work to help build our community, that is how we keep Anne alive in our heart. And through collaboration, and shining a light, like Abigail Hope Henderson, who we lost in 2013, but not before she ignited a movement to create the Midwest Music Foundation supporting heath care needs and mental health care for the music community. I’m inspired by the diverse , intelligent, motivated, listeners, looking for place on the dial, where they can connect to the stories & music & voice of our community.
Today we celebrate the pure idea of community radio, free form radio, radio that tells the story of the people who live here, the artists, the writers, the teachers, the performers. We celebrate 1015 weeks of WMM,the show that has brought us together, at this time, on this frequency, in these community airwaves. Thanks for listening.
YOU are the reason we are able to stay alive. Volunteers are waiting to hear from YOU right now. Call 888-931-0901. You can also visit us at http://www.kkfi.org, or call 888-931-0901 to support Kansas City Community Radio 90.1 FM. It only takes a few minutes, and we have “thank you gifts.” The number is 888-931-0901 to support KC Community Radio 90.1 FM
KKFI’s Mission Statement: KKFI is the Kansas City area’s independent, noncommercial community radio station. We seek to stimulate, educate and entertain our audience, to reflect the diversity of the local and world community, and to provide a channel for individuals and groups, issues and music that have been overlooked, suppressed or under-represented by other media.
KKFI’s Philosophy Statement: KKFI is committed to diversity in programming and discourse and seeks to create a climate of mutual respect and collaboration among volunteers and staff.
10:45
Carla Thomas – “Sweet Sensation” from: Written In Their Soul: The Stax Songwriter Demos selections / Concord / Oct. 2, 2023 [In its heyday, Stax Records was synonymous with soul music’s biggest stars – from Otis Redding and Carla Thomas to Sam & Dave and The Staple Singers. But behind their iconic hits was a talented team of songwriters. Craft Recordings celebrates the work of these unsung heroes with the collection Written in Their Soul: The Stax Songwriter Demos. The 7-disc box set includes 146 demos (140 previously unreleased) from Stax’s legendary roster of songwriters, including Bettye Crutcher, Homer Banks, and William Bell. From early sketches of classic ’60s and ’70s hits to never-before-heard songs with full-blown arrangements, Written in Their Soul offers fans a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of the storied Memphis label. // Compiled by multiple GRAMMY®-winning producer Cheryl Pawelski, the songs featured on Written in Their Soul fall into three categories: demos that were released by artists at Stax or its subsidiary imprints, including Volt, We Produce, and Enterprise (CDs 1–3); demos by Stax songwriters that were released by artists on other labels, such as Atlantic and Decca (CD 4); and a trove of hit-worthy recordings that were never released (CDs 5–7). Adding context to these songs are notes by Pawelski, plus a new essay by Emmy® and GRAMMY-winning writer/producer Robert Gordon (Respect Yourself: The Stax Records Story) and Stax’s original Director of Publicity, Deanie Parker, who later served as the founding President and CEO of the Soulsville Foundation, which encompasses the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, among other educational organizations. Ms. Parker, who joined the Stax fold in 1962, was also a songwriter at the label. // “Demo recordings are often tossed off without inhibition, just writer and tape recorder sharing an intimate space,” writes compilation producer Cheryl Pawelski. “I love all these songs as they tumbled out for the first time. They’re filled with the joy and magic of discovering something that wasn’t there moments before. Suddenly, there it is, a song filled with the hope of finding an audience, of saying something, of moving someone.” That magic is palpable throughout Written in Their Soul, which captures some of America’s best songwriters laying down their ideas (often for the first time) on tape. // A fascinating example is Henderson Thigpen’s “Woman to Woman,” which became a signature hit for Shirley Brown in 1974. The idea for the song first came to Thigpen when he heard his wife talking about two women fighting over the same man. “When two men get serious,” Thigpen recalled, “they say, ‘Let’s talk man to man,’ so I thought of these ladies saying, ‘Woman to woman, let’s hash this out.’” // Gordon and Parker point out that the “Woman to Woman” demo is notable in that it is voiced by a male artist, but written from a female perspective. This, they say, “is an expression of a great songwriter’s skill – the ability to inhabit any character, even those not of their gender. While it was a matter of economics for the songwriter to sing across gender boundaries – if the writers brought in an outside vocalist, they’d have to pay them or have a fee taken from their royalties – the real achievement is the writers’ ability to so comfortably imagine themselves as someone else.” // Not all of the demos stray far from their final versions – in fact, fans may recognize some songs immediately. Homer Banks’ demo for “(If Loving You Is Wrong) I Don’t Want to Be Right” (written with Carl Hampton) is a prime example. Originally intended for the Emotions, the song was shelved, only to be discovered two years later by Luther Ingram. The singer-songwriter, who stayed true to Bank’s demo, turned the song into one of the biggest hits of 1972. // Gordon and Parker note that the strength of this demo gave the songwriting duo greater creative responsibilities. “The similarity between [the] demo and Luther’s final release was strong enough to push Homer and Carl into taking more control of the sessions. ‘We found other producers were literally copying the demos and having hits,’ Homer [recalled]. ‘So…we simply decided that we were going to produce!’” // Stax was also home to several female songwriters – a rarity at that time. One of the label’s first big stars, Carla Thomas, was a prolific writer who penned her debut hit, “Gee Whiz (Look at His Eyes),” when she was just 15. Thomas’ work is exemplified here on multiple demos – the majority of which she would record herself – as well as several unreleased songs, including “Let’s Be Sure” and “It’s Up to You.” Some of Deanie Parker’s unreleased work is also highlighted, including demos of “Spin It” and “Nobody Wants to Get Old” with Mack Rice. // Among Stax’s most prolific songwriters was Bettye Crutcher, whose songs in this collection include solo compositions as well as collaborations, including works with her hitmaking team We Three (featuring Homer Banks and Raymond Jackson). But Crutcher had plenty of challenges to overcome, explains Parker. “She realized that there were barriers, that the writers had turf, and to be a woman in that environment was extremely difficult. // Crutcher, who passed away last October, told Gordon and Parker, “These guys just didn’t want to accept a girl coming in there doing what they were doing…I really was going to have to win them with my work, they were not going to give me any edge.” Written in Their Soul offers more than two dozen demos by Crutcher – a testament to her talents and tireless work ethic. Adds Parker, “I’ve never seen anybody who could write as many songs in one sitting as Bettye – she was like a machine!” // Other highlights from Crutcher’s rich collection of work include the previously-unreleased feminist anthem by We Three, “Too Much Sugar For A Dime.” Written In Their Soul includes two versions of the song: a raw demo, performed by Homer Banks, followed by a flashier rendition by Crutcher that features a full band, backup singers, and supremely funky guitar licks by Bobby Manuel, who frequently collaborated with the songwriter. // While it is thrilling to hear the early workings of classic Stax tracks, an equal portion of Written In Their Soul is devoted to the songs that never made it out into the world. Many of these tracks are fully-realized studio recordings that were sent to publishers for copywriting purposes. // Looking back at the breadth of demos collected here, Parker marvels, “This music has lasted over fifty years, and it’s still being studied, emulated, enjoyed. It has earned the right to become a tool used to teach a new generation: Culture. Music. Arts. Man’s humanity to man. There’s so many lessons to be learned from these demos, from the Stax vault, from the songwriters at Stax…But every great song starts with something that hits you.” Artist represented: March Wind, Homer Banks, William Bell, The Staple Singers, Carla Thomas, Deanie Parker, Eddie Floyd, Bettye Crutcher, Mack Rice, Wendy Rene, Veda Brown, and Henderson Thigpen.] [Carla Venita Thomas (born December 21, 1942) is an American singer, who is often referred to as the Queen of Memphis Soul. She is best known for her 1960s recordings for Atlantic and Stax including the hits “Gee Whiz (Look at His Eyes)” (1960), “B-A-B-Y” (1966) and “Tramp” (1967), a duet with Otis Redding. She is the daughter of Rufus Thomas. // Thomas was born and raised in the Foote Homes Projects in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. Along with her siblings, Marvell and Vaneese, she was one of three musical children of Rufus and Lorene Thomas. Despite growing up in the projects, the Thomas family lived near the Palace Theater on Beale Street, as Rufus was the theater’s Master of Ceremonies (MC) for their amateur shows. This access not only gave Thomas her first taste of the music world but it also provided a springboard for her transformation into the Queen of the Memphis Sound. // After her last Stax recording in 1971, Love Means…, and an appearance in Wattstax in 1972, Thomas slipped into relative obscurity when compared to her 1960s musical heyday. She featured in a number of modern-day projects, including a 1994 compilation of her greatest hits, a 2002 live recording of a Memphis performance and the 2007 release Live at the Bohemian Caverns in Washington, D.C., a long lost live recording of Thomas in 1967. She would also occasionally tour during the 1980s and became heavily involved in the “Artists in the Schools” program that provided Memphis schoolchildren with access to successful artists. These workshops were organized to talk to teenagers about music, performing arts and drug abuse. In 1991, she appeared with her father at the Porretta Terme Soul Festival. In 1993, Thomas was awarded the prestigious Pioneer Award, along with such musical heavyweights as James Brown and Solomon Burke, from the Rhythm & Blues Foundation in honor of her career achievements. She was featured in the 2003 documentary Only the Strong Survive, that was shown at the Cannes Film Festival and showcased important Stax recording artists. In 2021, Thomas featured on Valerie June’s single “Call Me a Fool”, which received a GRAMMY nomination for Best American Roots Song.]
MeShell Ndegeocello – “Call The Tune” from: The Omnichord Real Book / Blue Note – Verve / June 16, 2023 [13th album from acclaimed GRAMMY-winning multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello makes her Blue Note Records debut with The Omnichord Real Book, a visionary, expansive, and deeply jazz-influenced album that marks the start of a new chapter in her career. Following her 2018 album Ventriloquism, Meshell returns with an album of new original material that taps into a broad spectrum of her musical roots. The Omnichord Real Book was produced by Josh Johnson and features a wide range of guest artists including Jason Moran, Ambrose Akinmusire, Joel Ross, Jeff Parker, Brandee Younger, Julius Rodriguez, Mark Guiliana, Cory Henry, Joan As Police Woman, Thandiswa, and others. // Meshell Ndegeocello was born Michelle Lynn Johnson on August 29, 1968 in West Berlin, Germany, to US Army Sergeant Major and saxophonist father Jacques Johnson and health care worker mother Helen. She was raised in Washington, D.C. where she attended Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Oxon Hill High School. She is a singer-songwriter, rapper, and bassist. She has gone by the name Meshell Suhaila Bashir-Shakur which is used as a writing credit on some of her later work. Her music incorporates a wide variety of influences, including funk, soul, jazz, hip hop, reggae and rock. She has received significant critical acclaim throughout her career, being nominated for eleven Grammy Awards, and winning one. She also has been credited for helping to “spark the neo-soul movement”. // Ndegeocello adopted her surname, which she says means “free like a bird” in Swahili. Early pressings of Plantation Lullabies were affixed with stickers to help pronounce her name. The spelling has changed in the hands of record labels a few times during her career; the correct spelling of her stage name as of 2001 is Meshell Ndegeocello.]
10:50 – Pledge Break #4
Our WMM Fall Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre, & Nicolette Paige
Where can I find out about what is happening in my community?
Labor Rights, Renter’s Rights, The Environment, The Kansas City Visual & Literary Arts , The Performing Arts, Women’s Issues, Native American Issues, LGBTQIA Issue, Urban Issues, Black Lives Matter, Black Owned Businesses, Jazz, Blues, Reggae, Classical, Hip Hop, Folk, Women’s Music, Indie Rock, Pop, Electronica, Punk
…the answer: KKFI 90.1 FM Kansas City Community Radio. Radio Powered by Diversity
KKFI is an Independent, non-commercial radio station! Now, more than ever, Independent, Community Media is important for our world. KKFI is owned by the Active Members who volunteer to keep KKFI alive! We are here to listen to you, to share your concerns, and offer resources and information. Along with our National Public Affairs shows like Democracy Now and Alternative Radio we offer more locally produced public affairs programs than anywhere else on the dial. We offer programs specifically produced for the LGBTQIA Community, Women’s Issues, Native American News and Culture, Middle Eastern Music and Information, Latino Programming, African American Public Affairs and Community News, Labor and Worker’s Unions, our prison population and justice system, environmental programming, Visual and Literary Arts, and Performing Arts.
Just remember what you don’t have to hear when you are tuned to 90.1 FM KKFI! –- No commercials! We do have brief underwriting announcements, recognizing those who financially contribute to support non-profit community radio. At KKFI there is no automated robot playing the same 40 songs in a “rotation,” based on a formula, created by a singular programmer of the robot.KKFI is the opposite of a robot.There is always human being on the end of the phone line anytime you call 816-931-0901.
90.1 offers 100 different radio programs. 85 of these programs are locally, produced, hosted, engineered and written by over 100 different people, who create content, and personally handcraft each show, each week. There are 64 local music shows and 21 locally produced News, Public Affairs, Arts & Talk shows. You will not find this kind of representative diversity anywhere else on your radio dial. Or from any singular source on your computer. It is very special. It needs to be nourished and kept alive in a world of corporate, nationally owned, commercial or religious broadcasting.
Not only do we bring the most diverse and unfiltered news and information, but our musical playlists are deep, and comprehensive. In one week you can hear over 2000 different songs played, in Blues, Jazz, Folk, Hip Hop, Reggae, Classical, World, Americana, Southern Soul, Fusion, Soul, Rock, New Wave, Electronic, Native, Local, Old Timey, Rockabilly, Women’s, Children’s, Gospel, and Experimental. With all of this, you hear the voices from the hundreds of KKFI volunteers, and thousands of guests from the community, who share their stories, broadcast live from our non-commercial, midtown studios, at 39th & Main, in the center of our metro, across two states, a collective of communities, and thousands of listeners. What is this worth to you?
10:57
Julia Othmer – “White Rabbit” from: White Rabbit – Single / Fricken’ Awesome Records / August 29, 2021 (Unreleased) [Recorded Live at Kulak’s in North Hollywood with Andy Sanesi (Missing Persons, Eminem, Arturo Sandoval) on drums, Jamie Kime (Dr. John, Zappa Plays Zappa) on guitar, and Chris Roy (Nancy Sinatra, Don Randi) on bass. This year Julia released SEEDS VOLUME 2, her 4th album with live recordings from her 30-day “Songs of September Project”, where Julia covered songs of protest & hope, to inspire people to vote. From those songs Julia’s fans democratically selected their favorite tracks to be released together on “Seeds.” In 2020 Julia released SEEDS VOLUME 1. Julia Othmer released “Sound,” on April 12, 2019, her second album, that took 3 years to complete, and was produced with James Lundie, who also married Julia in January of 2016, during the completion of the record. Julia Othmer, is a graduate of Park Hill High School. Julia moved to Los Angeles in 2006 to record her 1st album, OASIS MOTEL. In 2018 and 2019 Julia toured with The Alarm in U.S. and United Kingdom. More info at: http://www.juliaothmer.com.]
[Julia Othmer plays Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s 4th Annual GHOST LIGHT: A Haunted Night of Songs & Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads with two outdoor performances October 13 and 14 in Roanoke Park, 3601 Roanoke Road, KCMO. Performances will begin at 7:30 PM featuring poets, Glenn North and Mary Silwance, and Black Light Animals, Jass, Julia Othmer and more. For more information visit https://bit.ly/GhostLight23%5D
11:00 – Station ID
11:00 – Interview with Karen Lisondra
Karen Lisondra is a multifaceted performer/director/educator who spent over a decade doing devised theatrical work in South America, touring the globe with two prestigious theatre companies, Fuerza Bruta and Teatro de Los Andes. She co-founded Resonation Music and Arts with her husband, Amado Espinoza, to inspire curiosity and respect for world cultures, stimulate creativity, and promote a sense of togetherness through music and art in the classroom and beyond.
Karen Lisondra, is the Associate Director of Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s 4th Annual GHOST LIGHT: A Haunted Night of Songs & Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads with two FREE outdoor performances October 13 and 14 in Roanoke Park, 3601 Roanoke Road, KCMO.Arts & Mask Making for all ages will happen 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, with a Haunted Parade starting at 7:00 PM led by Amado Espinoza and Karen Lisondra. The GHOST LIGHT performances will begin at 7:30 PM featuring poets, Glenn North and Mary Silwance, and Black Light Animals, Jass, Julia Othmer.
Karen Lisondra Thank you for being with us on WMM
Kansas City Repertory Theatre Announces Artists of 4th Annual Ghost Light: A Haunted Night of Songs and Storie From KC’s Cultural Crossroads
Two Outdoor Performances Oct. 13 and 14 @ Roanoke Park FOOD TRUCKS, FAMILY ACTIVITIES AND MORE!
Kansas City, Mo. (Sept. 12, 2023) – Kansas City Repertory Theatre Artistic Director Stuart Carden today announced the artists in the return of 4th Annual Ghost Light: A Haunted Night of Songs and Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads with two FREE outdoor performances Oct. 13 and 14 in Roanoke Park (3601 Roanoke Road, KCMO 64111). Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. and will last approximately 90 minutes.
4th Annual Ghost Light: A Haunted Night of Songs and Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads returns after packed performances in its last three seasons. Ghost Light features extraordinary musicians, writers, and storytellers that reflect the cultural riches of our KC community, art-making opportunities, and a chance for little-ones to march in the Ghost Light Orchestra and our Haunted Parade. Costumes are encouraged!
ARTISTS – Storytellers include Glenn North (poet) and Mary Silwance (poet). Each night will also feature a winner of the Kansas City Public Library Ghost Story writing contest.
Bands include Black Light Animals and Jass, musician Julia Othmer and J Buch, the youth musician from Art as Mentorship, will also perform.
Music-Making for all & Haunted Parade led by Amado Espinoza & Karen Lisondra.
Original Environmental Design by Rafael Toribio Environmental Installation by KCRep Props Department Carden will emcee both performances.
Carden stated, “The beautiful & atmospheric surrounds and tremendous audience turn-out last year has lured us back to the wooded, limestone cliffs of Roanoke Park for our 4th Annual Ghost Light. We are so excited to build on our tradition of sharing original ghost stories & songs of hauntings and the haunted created by a rich array of Kansas City artists and performed just for you. “ He continued, ”This year we are expanding our all-ages arts engagement to both nights of performances and invite all to come out early for mask and lantern-making, learn to play a pan-flute with musician Amado Espinosa and join the Ghost Light Orchestra, & march in the music filled haunted parade. Plus, more food trucks, kid drinks, & City Barrel brews & this is going to be a ghostly celebration for all.”
4th Annual Ghost Light: A Haunted Night of Songs & Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads – Oct. 13 & 14, 2023 | Roanoke Park – Conceived & Directed by Stuart Carden
4th Annual Ghost Light: A Haunted Night of Songs and Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads returns! This hybrid concert and ghost-story event weaves together local storytellers and musicians to share frighteningly fun tales from KC’s cultural crossroads that will leave you shaking with excitement! Costumes encouraged!
Friday, Oct. 13 and Saturday, Oct. 14 (ASL on Saturday evening show)
4:30 – 7:00 PM – Ghost Light Arts Engagement for All Ages Ghost Light Orchestra – Amado Espinoza and Karen Lisondra Mask Making – Concept by Rafael Toribio Luminary Making – Concept by Rafael Toribio 7:00 – 7:30 PM – The Haunted Parade w/ Arts Engagement all-ages participants – Led by Karen Lisondra and Amado Espinoza 7:30 – 9:00 PM – Ghost Light Performance
Seating is general admission, outside on a grass lawn and is ADA accessible. Parking is free & available at lots on the KCMO Parks grounds and the surrounding area. Food and drink trucks will be on site and patrons are welcome to bring in their own food and drink as well. Restrooms are available in the Westport Roanoke Community Center.
Support – KCRep’s 2023-2024 season is underwritten by the Hall Family Foundation, Hallmark Corporate Foundation, Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation, The McDonnell Foundation, Inc., The Shubert Foundation, the Missouri Arts Council (a state agency, whose gift is supported in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts), Theater League, and University of Missouri Kansas City.
Partners for the events are Roanoke Park Conservancy , Kansas City Public Library, Kansas City Parks and Recreation, Art as Mentorship, and Kissick Construction.
Young People – Submit Your Ghost Story – The KB Public Library, in partnership with the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Library and Kansas City Repertory Theatre, invites kids ages 10-14 to share their spooky tales for its annual Youth Ghost Story Contest. Entrants must live in the service area of one of the two libraries and can submit a short story or poetry – or multiple entries – from September 1 through September 30. Submissions must be no more than 600 words and must be original – in the writer’s own words. For more details, go to https://www.kclibrary.org/ghoststorycontest . Winning entries will be performed at Ghost Light and featured in videos on the Kansas City Public Library’s youth YouTube channel.
KC Rep is celebrating 60 years of transformative theater, KC Rep is a cultural catalyst at the center of our nation’s creative crossroads. Upholding their mission to inspire, entertain, and open minds by creating transformative theatre experiences for all KCRep produces world-renowned classic works and world premieres on their two mainstages, in unique spaces, and throughout the community. Lauded by The Wall Street Journal, TIME, Variety and The Toronto Sun, KCRep regularly produces at Spencer Theatre, where it serves as the professional theatre in residence at the UMKC, and Copaken Stage located in downtown Kansas City. Under Artistic Director Stuart Carden and Executive Director Angela Lee Gieras, KCRep employs more than 150 professional artists, technicians, and administrators, and historically serves more than 60,000 patrons and 10,000 school children annually. To receive KCRep updates: http://www.facebook.com/KCREP, @KCRep or Instagram(@KCRepTheatre) or YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/user/kansascityrep.
Karen Lisonra Thanks for being with us on WMM.
Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s 4th Annual GHOST LIGHT: A Haunted Night of Songs & Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads with two outdoor performances October 13 and 14 in Roanoke Park, 3601 Roanoke Road, KCMO. Performances will begin at 7:30 PM featuring poets, Glenn North and Mary Silwance, and Black Light Animals, Jass, Julia Othmer and more. For more information visit https://bit.ly/GhostLight23
11:11
Jass & The Boys – “Daydream Girl (feat. Jass & Black Light Animals)” from: “Daydream Girl”- Single / Groove King Records / August 25, 2023 [New single from Jass & The Boys follows their earlier single, “Gvn2u(feat. Jass & Black Light Animals)” released on July 14, 2023, and “Love U Like I Love U (feat. Jass & Black Light Animals) “ released December 2, 2022 through Groocve King Records. “The Boys” are the members of Black Light Animals: Colby Bales, Branden Moser, & Cody Calhoun. Colby and Branden also are pare of the Freedom Affair. Jass is Jasmine “Jass” Couch released the EP OFFKEY: TOO HIGH on September 23, 2022. Jass released her single “Higher Ground” on August 16, 2022. It was WMM’s #1 Single in our 50 Favorite Singles of 2022. Jass released her single “Him” on February 23, 2022. Jass released AT THE CLOSE OF A DECADE on November 26, 2022. It was part of WMM’s 121 Best Recordings of 2021. She wrote, “After years of writing and recording in voice memos, I decided to grab my iPad and began recording something that I am very proud of, and named it, At the Close of A Decade, and released it in November 2019. With my iPhone/iPad, some apple headphones, I created this project. The amazing people around me told me it was worth it, even when I didn’t believe it myself. I convinced myself I would be the only one that liked my songs. If you decide to listen you’ll hear sound clips of shows and movies that made a difference in the way I saw the world, the way I saw myself, and the way I overcame my experiences. I remember asking my grandma and my son if I should release what I’ve been writing and they both said very simply to do it, so I’ve done it. I want to thank all of my wonderful friends who have been my soundboards during this process, all of the people that have asked me when it’s coming, the people that have kept me accountable, and believed that this time it was for real. My story is so very triumphant and beautiful because I have overcome experiences and shunned the fear I had to do what I love. It’s crazy how you can talk your way out of some amazing things and also how you can talk yourself into making some amazing things happen. If you partake, I hope you enjoy.” // Jass has played The Essence Festival, Apocalypse Meow, Manor Fest, Farmers Ball, KC Monarchs, recordBar, Bottleneck, Mutual Musicians Foundation, Grinders, Sofar Sounds, The Uptown Theatre . She has shared the stages with The New Respects, Thundercat, Old Sound, and many others. More info at: http://www.jassrcouch.com]
[Jass & The Boys play Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s 4th Annual GHOST LIGHT: A Haunted Night of Songs & Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads with two outdoor performances October 13 and 14 in Roanoke Park, 3601 Roanoke Road, KCMO. Performances will begin at 7:30 PM featuring poets, Glenn North and Mary Silwance, and Black Light Animals, Jass, Julia Othmer and more. For more information visit https://bit.ly/GhostLight23%5D
11:16 – Pledge Break #5
Our WMM Fall Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre, & Nicolette Paige
90.1 FM KKFI offers loads and loads of information about what is going on in the community. Not only does this show interview 150 guest each year, not only do we play nearly 900 different songs with more than half of those being locally produced, but we also shine a light on area not-for-profit theatre companies, art museums & galleries, area festivals, service organizations, area record labels and record stores, the area music scene, arts scene, theatre scene, literary arts scene, political action scene.
Here are all of the organizations, people, and events we’ve helped shine a light on so far in 2023: KC Repertory Theatre, Outer Reaches Fest, Owen/Cox Dance Group, No Divide KC, The Folly Theatre, The Kinsey Sicks, recordBar, Lawrence Arts Center, Manor Records, The Rino, KC Blues Society, Records With Merritt, Kansas City Star, Lawrence Music Alliance, MixMaster Music Conference, Midwest Music Foundation, KC Gift, Briarfest, Warwick Theatre, The Record Machine, Synergy Systems, Lemonade Park, Crossroads Music Festival, The Ship, The Black Box Theatre, Amplify Lawrence, Quindaro Ruins, Music Writing of Dave Marsh, Innovation Festival, Queer Narratives Fest, Art in the Loop, The documentary film: NO PLACE LIKE HOME: THE STRUGGLE AGAINST HATE IN KANSAS, KC Fringe Festival, Make Music Day, Boulevardia, Arts in The Park, UMKC Conservatory of Music, The Emerald, The Crossroads Hotel, High Dive Records, Greenwood Social Hall, KC Folk Fest, Manor Fest, One Voice Radio, KC Farm School at Gibbs Road, Center Cut Records, KKFI Band Auction, Charlotte Street Foundation, Women’s History Month!, KC Punk Shindig!, Sweet Honey in The Rock, University of Missouri at Columbia, Lawrence Public Library, I Heart Local Music, Black History Month, Mr. Furious Records, Bach Aria Soloists, Folk Alliance International, Martin Luther King Jr., Tribute to David Bowie, Tribute to Iris DeMent
11:25
Bitch & Roma Baran – “Polar Bear (Roma Baran Remix)” from: “Polar Bear (Roma Baran Remix)” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / September 26, 2023 [Bitch is a longstanding queer music icon who Yahoo Entertainment called “a feminist force that the world needs now more than ever” when she released “Bitchcraft,” her ninth studio album, on the legendary label Kill Rock Stars. Bitchcraft, was also included by Yahoo on their list of the top ten albums of 2022. With her signature electric violin and lyrical smarts front and center over huge beats and deep synths, Bitch coined the genre “Poet Pop” and she has been touring nationally ever since, igniting her loyal following and inspiring new followers with her colorful and bold stage shows. // “Bitchcraft is a masterpiece,” said Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls, who, along with Ani Difranco, have taken Bitch on tour as their opener. Joey Soloway (Transparent) directed the music video for “Easy Target.” // In addition to headlining over 70 shows in 2022, Bitch honed her acting chops and played a role in the new Audible podcast of Alison Bechdel’s “Dykes To Watch Out For,” alongside Jane Lynch, Carrie Brownstein and Roxane Gay. The series was directed by Leigh Silverman, and Bitch co-wrote a song for it with Faith Soloway. // Bitch first achieved notoriety as one half of the queer folk duo Bitch and Animal. The band toured with Ani DiFranco, and released two albums on her label Righteous Babe Records. In the mid 2000s, Bitch went solo, and shared stages with the Indigo Girls, acted in John Cameron Mitchell’s film “Shortbus,” co-wrote a song with Margaret Cho, produced two albums of her elder and folk hero Ferron. // Bitchcraft, Bitch’s first album in eight years, is one that makes you think and makes you dance. It was recorded in LA, Austin, Provincetown, and Boston. Full of violins, synths, and huge vocals, the record is neon pink and in your face. It’s Joni Mitchell set to a click track; it’s queer Cyndi Lauper and will hex you with its brilliance. It also makes you think: about the state of the world, about evil politicians, about what it means to exist as a woman, and how to find joy along the way.
[Bitch will play recordBar on Sunday, October 15 at 7:00 PM with Crys Matthews.]
11:30 – Interview with Bitch
Singer songwriter Bitch released her acclaimed album BITCHCRAFT last year through Kill Rock Stars. Bitch makes witchy poet pop music, with violins & synthesizers, and the songs are spectral, heartbreaking, political, & beautiful. “Bitchcraft” is the long-standing queer icon’s 9th studio album. Bitch first achieved notoriety as one half of the queer folk duo Bitch and Animal. The band went on to tour with Ani DiFranco, who signed the duo to her label Righteous Babe Records. In the mid 2000s, Bitch went solo, and shared stages with the Indigo Girls, acted in John Cameron Mitchell‘s film Shortbus, co-wrote a song with Margaret Cho, produced two albums of her elder folk hero Ferron, and licensed her music to The L Word. Eight years ago, she began to weave together her latest record Bitchcraft that was born in a move from New York City, where Bitch had lived for 15 years, to a log cabin in the woods. It was there, in the cabin, that Bitch began to write some of the songs that would appear on Bitchcraft. Bitch will play recordBar on Sunday, Oct. 15 at 7:00 PM with Crys Matthews. Info at: http://www.bitchmusic.com or http://www.therecordbar.com
Bitch, thanks for being with us on WMM.
“Bitchcraft is a masterpiece,” said Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls, who, along with Ani Difranco, have taken Bitch on tour as their opener.
“Bitchcraft is poppy and poetic and will appeal to her loyal fan-base as well as put her on the map for new audiences to discover.”—Brooklyn Vegan
“Danceworthy political anthems, environmental lamentations, and operatic instrumentals. Bitchcraft shows a stunning range that ultimately reveals how an album can draw on multiple genres while remaining a powerful and poptastic whole.”—Louder than War
Bitch is a longstanding queer music icon who Yahoo Entertainment called “a feminist force that the world needs now more than ever.” “Bitchcraft,” her 9th studio album, was included by Yahoo on their list of the top ten albums of 2022. Bitch coined the genre “Poet Pop” and has been touring nationally ever since, igniting fans with her bold stage shows.
Headlining over 70 shows in 2022, Bitch also played a role in the Audible podcast of Alison Bechdel’s “Dykes To Watch Out For,” with Jane Lynch, & Carrie Brownstein, directed by Leigh Silverman. Bitch co-wrote a song for it with Faith Soloway.
Bitch makes witchy poet pop. She does it with violins and synthesizers, and the songs she writes are spectral, heartbreaking, political, and beautiful.
Bitch grew up with a tap dancing studio in the basement of her childhood home, and began playing the violin, her first love, as a young child. Bitch first achieved notoriety as one half of the queer folk duo Bitch & Animal. The band went on to tour with Ani DiFranco, whom they caught the ears of while playing a gig at a pizza shop in Provincetown on Cape Cod.
In the mid 2000s, Bitch went solo, and shared stages with the Indigo Girls, acted in the John Cameron Mitchell film Shortbus, co-wrote a song with Margaret Cho, produced two albums of her elder folk hero Ferron, and licensed her music to The L Word. Eight years ago, she began to weave together Bitchcraft, her latest record.
Bitchcraft was born in a move from New York City, where Bitch had lived for 15 years, to a log cabin in the woods. There was all the time in the world to make art, and it was there, in the cabin, that Bitch began to write some of the songs that would appear on Bitchcraft. “It gave me space to think about the biggest version of myself that I could be,” she says of those early days in the cabin. The songs she wrote were a departure from anything she’d ever written before, and she began to craft huge pop tracks with the help of her trusty violin. Then, she moved to LA and Bitchcraft began to shapeshift again.
To complete her album, Bitch called on Anne Preven and God-des who helped her crystalize her vision in terms of writing and production. She called on Roma Baran (Laurie Anderson) to produce the violins on “Polar Bear.” She called on Melissa York (Team Dresch, The Butchies) and Faith Soloway (Transparent) to co-write a couple of the songs. Joey Soloway (Transparent) also directed the music video for “Easy Target”
Bitchcraft is like Joni Mitchell set to a click track, it’s queer Cyndi Lauper. It’s neon pink, in your face, ready to hex you with its brilliance. It’s an unbelievably fun record that is extremely capable of breaking your heart a little bit. It also makes you think: about the state of the world, about evil politicians, about what it means to exist as a woman, and how to find joy along the way.
Bitch Discography
“Polar Bear (Roma Baran Remix)” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / September 26, 2023 “You’re The Man” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / January 12, 2023 Bitchcraft (11 track album) / Kill Rock Stars / February 4, 2022 “Easy Target” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / November 10, 2021 “Hello Meadow” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / October 6, 2021 “Boys of Summer” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / September 21, 2021 “Come to My Window” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / September 15, 2021 “Standing in The way of Control” – Single / Kill Rock Stars / June 17, 2021 Blasted! (11 track album) / Short Story Records / March 23, 2010 Make This Break This (11 track album) / Capital B Records / October 10, 2006 The Be-Sides (One Take Wonders and Poems) / Capital B Records / September 20, 2005 “Tiny Tree Christmas”-Single/ Bitch & John Cameron Mitchell / Kill Rock Stars / 12/9/’21
Bitch and Animal Discography
Sour Juice and Rhyme (12 track album) / Righteous Babe Records / June 10, 2003 What’s That Smell? (13 track album) / Righteous Babe Records / November 9, 1999 Eternally Hard (14 track album) / Righteous Babe Records / September 10, 1997
Bitch – “Easy Target” from: BITCHCRAFT / Kill Rock Stars / February 4, 2022 [Bitch is a longstanding queer music icon who Yahoo Entertainment called “a feminist force that the world needs now more than ever” when she released “Bitchcraft,” her ninth studio album, on the legendary label Kill Rock Stars. Bitchcraft, was also included by Yahoo on their list of the top ten albums of 2022. With her signature electric violin and lyrical smarts front and center over huge beats and deep synths, Bitch coined the genre “Poet Pop” and she has been touring nationally ever since, igniting her loyal following and inspiring new followers with her colorful and bold stage shows. // “Bitchcraft is a masterpiece,” said Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls, who, along with Ani Difranco, have taken Bitch on tour as their opener. Joey Soloway (Transparent) directed the music video for “Easy Target.” // In addition to headlining over 70 shows in 2022, Bitch honed her acting chops and played a role in the new Audible podcast of Alison Bechdel’s “Dykes To Watch Out For,” alongside Jane Lynch, Carrie Brownstein and Roxane Gay. The series was directed by Leigh Silverman, and Bitch co-wrote a song for it with Faith Soloway. // Bitch first achieved notoriety as one half of the queer folk duo Bitch and Animal. The band toured with Ani DiFranco, and released two albums on her label Righteous Babe Records. In the mid 2000s, Bitch went solo, and shared stages with the Indigo Girls, acted in John Cameron Mitchell’s film “Shortbus,” co-wrote a song with Margaret Cho, produced two albums of her elder and folk hero Ferron. // Bitchcraft, Bitch’s first album in eight years, is one that makes you think and makes you dance. It was recorded in LA, Austin, Provincetown, and Boston. Full of violins, synths, and huge vocals, the record is neon pink and in your face. It’s Joni Mitchell set to a click track; it’s queer Cyndi Lauper and will hex you with its brilliance. It also makes you think: about the state of the world, about evil politicians, about what it means to exist as a woman, and how to find joy along the way.
[Bitch will play recordBar on Sunday, October 15 at 7:00 PM with Crys Matthews.]
Crys Matthews – “Changemakers” from: CHANGEMAKERS / Crys Matthews / May 26, 2021 [Winner of the 2022 Folk Alliance International Folk Muaic Award for Song of the Year. Crys Matthews was also an Official Showcase Artist for the 34th Annual Folk Alliance International Conference, May 18, 19, 21, 21, and 22 in Kansas City, at Westin Crown Center Hotel, More info at http://www.folk.org. Already being hailed as “the next Woody Guthrie,” Crys Matthews is among the brightest stars of the new generation of social justice music-makers. A powerful lyricist whose songs of compassionate dissent reflect her lived experience as what she lightheartedly calls “the poster-child for intersectionality,” Justin Hiltner of Bluegrass Situation called Matthews’s gift “a reminder of what beauty can occur when we bridge those divides.” She is made for these times and, with the release of her new, hope-fueled, love-filled social justice album Changemakers, Matthews hopes to take her place alongside some of her heroes in the world of social-justice music like Sweet Honey in the Rock and Holly Near. Of Matthews, ASCAP VP & Creative Director Eric Philbrook says, “By wrapping honest emotions around her socially conscious messages and dynamically delivering them with a warm heart and a strong voice, she lifts our spirits just when we need it most in these troubled times. // ”Matthews began performing in 2010, but cemented her acclaim at Lincoln Center as the 2017 New Song Music and Performance Competition grand prize winner. That year she also released two new projects—her album of thoughtful songs on love and life called The Imagineers, and her EP called Battle Hymn for an Army of Lovers, which tackles social justice themes. Matthews also won the People’s Music Network’s Social Justice Songs contest at the Northeast Regional Folk Alliance. Loyal fans quickly followed as Matthews racked up performances at large music festivals and prestigious venues across the country including the Sundance Film Festival, Kerrville Folk Festival, and locally at venues like The Birchmere, TheHamilton, Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center, and Jammin’ Java. In her TedTalk about difficult conversations called “Sing, Don’t Shout—An Alternative Approach” Matthews spoke about being born and raised in a small town in southeastern NorthCarolina by an A.M.E.preacher, and how she witnessed the power of music from an early age. A former drum major and classically-trained clarinetist turned folk singer, Matthews is using her voice to answer Dr. Martin Luther King’s call to be “a drum major for justice.” // “I believe in hope,” Matthews said. “As a social-justice songwriter, it is my duty to keep breathing that hope and encouragement into the people who listen to my music.” And, from the title track to the last track, Changemakers does just that all while tackling some heavy topics like immigration, the opioid crisis, Black Lives Matter, and gun safety to name a few.“ Ani DiFranco said, “People used to make records as in a record of an event,” said Matthews, “so I hope that these songs will serve as a time capsule, a record of the events of the last four years and what it was like to live through them.” Crys Matthews’s thoughtful, realistic and emotional songs speak to the voice of our generation and remind us why music indeed soothes the soul. More info at http://www.crysmatthews.com]
[Crys Matthews will play recordBar on Sunday, October 15 at 7:00 PM opening for Bitch.]
11:49 – Pledge Break #6
Our WMM Fall Fund Drive Team: Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre, & Nicolette Paige
KKFI offers 24-7 programming, and YOU (the listener), basically get all of this amazing programming for “free.” I, for one, love that I can turn on my radio, or computer device, and tune into the 90.1 FM’s 100, 000 watt, crystal-clear signal, and hear the music, information, news, entertainment, events, and stories, that I really cannot find anywhere else. 90.1 is my comfort, my special companion, my interesting friend, introducing me to all kinds of new & local music, as well as the news & information without the intrusion of commercials. It is radio brought to YOU by real people, who create these shows out of love, and are guided by KKFI’s noble mission that “seeks to stimulate, educate and entertain our audience, to reflect the diversity of the local and world community, and to provide a channel for individuals and groups, issues and music that have been overlooked, suppressed or under-represented by other media.”
Driving in your car, at the office, at the gym, in your garage, in your cubicle, in your artspace, on your iPod, at your construction site, in your kitchen, in your barn, YOU can take 90.1 with you, as your companion. 90.1 FM is generally a good date. Good for a few laughs, fun to dance with, always interested in good conversation. Isn’t 90.1 FM KKFI worth a few dollars a day, or a week? So many people tune in to http://www.kkfi.org everyday, but studies show, that less than 1 percent actually donate to keep this miracle of broadcasting alive. Your support means that you will help bring this programming to folks who could not donate at this time, for whatever the reason.
This is your chance to put your money where your ears are. Please help keep this part of our public airwaves alive for our community to enjoy, free from commercials, free from religious sermonizing, free from extremely conservative and slanted right wing “talk radio,” and free from corporately “owned and cloned” robotic affiliates that play the same 15 songs everyday at the same time. YOU deserve better. YOU deserve radio that really reflects our great city, and tells the story of our great music scene, and performing arts scene, and labor rights, and women’s issues, and LBGT information, and programming specifically produced for Latinos and African Americans, working people, Jazz lovers. Support the free-form spirit that is 90.1 FM KKFI!
Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre and Nicolette Paige Thank You! Thank you to everyone who donated! For WMM. I’m Mark Manning. Thanks for listening!
11:55
Heidi Lynne Gluck – “I’m Not Free” from: MIGRATE OR DIE / Heidi Lynne Gluck / July 7, 2023 [Heidi Lynne Gluck released the singles: “I’m Not Free” on June 2, 2023 and “Skyscraper” on June 7, 2023. Lawrence, Kansas based Heidi Lynne Gluck is a songwriter, singer and multi-instrumentalist originally from the middle of Canada. After transplanting herself from the plains of Manitoba to the midwestern United States, Heidi quickly became an in-demand player, performing on stage and in the studio both as a solo artist and with renowned musicians including Juliana Hatfield & Some Girls, Margot & The Nuclear So and Sos, Lily & Madeleine, The Pieces, The Only Children, and others. Heidi Lynne Gluck joined us live on WMM on June 8, and August 24, 2016. Heidi Lynne Gluck released her critically acclaimed album, PONY SHOW through Lawrence based Lotuspool Records on August 26, 2016. This was the follow-up to her critically acclaimed release THE ONLY GIRL IN THE ROOM, released April 28, 2015. Heidi Lynne Gluck released the 8th edition of the Too Much Rock, limited edition, 7” vinyl Single Series on August 3, 2018, featuring her original song, “Party Line.” and the B-side, “Good Guys and Bad Guys” a new version of Camper Van Beethoven song. Heidi Lynne Gluck also plays with the band the Roseline and was a featured vocalist on “Beauty in the Distance” with Asterales. Heidi recently released two new singles with Tom Brosseau, “Sunflower” on Dec. 15, 2022, and “Under African Skies” on Feb. 17, 2023.] [Heidi Lynne Gluck joined WMM on July 12, 2023.]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on Oct. 18, we’ll talk with Jamogi aka Byron Hyde a KC based singer, songwriter, MC, producer, originally from LA, California, who released his EP Star-Crossed Lover on March 3, 2023, followed by a “Star-Crossed Lover GALACTIC REMIX (feat. Watchman)” single on June 9, 2023. Jamogi released the AGE OF AQUARIUS EP on March 3, 2023, and the single “Celebration” on Dec. 9, 2022, and the single “Anymore” on May 6, 2022. // Jamogi played the 19th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, August 26, 2023
ALSO next week Kate McCandless & Cody Wyoming join us to share details about SHE SPEAKS IN TONGUES submits: PJ Harvey’s To Bring You My Love W/ THE CODY WYOMING DEAL, Friday, October 20, 8:00 PM at The Brick, 1727 McGee, KCMO. Featuring 50ft. QUEENIE. SHE SPEAKS IN TONGUES is Kate McCandless- vocals, performance, percussion // CODY WYOMING DEAL is Cody Wyoming – guitar, organ, synth, backing vox. Matt Richey-Drums, Justin Muschinske – bass, baritone, organ, guitar, synth; J. Howell – guitar, prepared guitar, sound design; Katie Gilchrist-backing vox, percussion, keys; Rachel Fuentes – cello; Joanna Metsker – violin // 50ft. QUEENIE is Amy Farrand – vox; Katie Gilchrist – vox; Julie Berndsen – vox; Chris Meck- guitar, Brandon Phillips – Guitar, Adam Phillips-drums, Chris Wagner- Bass. More info at: http://www.shespeaksintongues.com
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
THANK YOU to our incredible KKFI Staff; Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers.
This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. It is a collective spirit of hundreds of people, setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the goal of keeping our airwaves, non-commercial, and open! Thank you to programmers & volunteers who made extra effort to keep our station alive
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, October 11, 2023
WMM presents Fearless Women: Karen Lisondra & GHOST LIGHT + Bitch + Marion Merritt, Joelle St. Pierre & Nicolette Paige
Mark features more New & MidCoastal releases from fearless women vocalists: Heidi Lynne Gluck, Jass & The Boys, Keo & Them, Julia Othmer, Sweeping Promises, Crys Matthews, Bitch, Samara Joy, Hannah Kadagu, Meshell Ndegeocello, Karla Thomas, and Joni Mitchell.
At 11:00 we talk with Karen Lisondra, Associate Director of Kansas City Repertory Theatre‘s 4th Annual GHOST LIGHT: A Haunted Night of Songs & Stories from KC’s Cultural Crossroads with two FREE outdoor performances October 13 and 14 in Roanoke Park, 3601 Roanoke Road, KCMO. Arts & Mask Making for all ages will happen 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM, with a Haunted Parade starting at 7:00 PM led by Amado Espinoza and Karen Lisondra. The GHOST LIGHT performances will begin at 7:30 PM featuring poets, Glenn North and Mary Silwance, and Black Light Animals, Jass, Julia Othmer and more. For more information visit https://bit.ly/GhostLight23
At 11:30 we’ll talk LIVE with singer songwriter Bitch who released her acclaimed album Bitchcraft last year through Kill Rock Stars. Bitch makes witchy poet pop music. She does it with violins and synthesizers, and the songs she writes are spectral, heartbreaking, political, and beautiful. Bitchcraft is the long-standing queer icon’s 9th studio album. Bitch began playing the violin, her first love, as a young child. Bitch first achieved notoriety as one half of the queer folk duo Bitch and Animal. The band went on to tour with Ani DiFranco, who signed the duo to her label Righteous Babe Records. In the mid 2000s, Bitch went solo, and shared stages with the Indigo Girls, acted in the John Cameron Mitchell film Shortbus, co-wrote a song with Margaret Cho, produced two albums of her elder folk hero Ferron, and licensed her music to The L Word. Eight years ago, she began to weave together her latest record Bitchcraft that was born in a move from New York City, where Bitch had lived for 15 years, to a log cabin in the woods. It was there, in the cabin, that Bitch began to write some of the songs that would appear on Bitchcraft. Bitch will play recordBar on Sunday, October 15 at 7:00 PM with Folk Music award winning artist, Crys Matthews. More information at http://www.bitchmusic.com or http://www.therecordbar.com
AND, throughout the entire show we welcome Special Guest Co-Hosts, Marion Merritt of Records With Merritt, a minority owned business in KCMO, and Joelle St. Pierre longtime KKFI Volunteer and “Garden Angel,” and Nicolette Paige, singer and songwriter, dancer, mother and the owner and founder of Soul Child Awakenings. Marion, Joelle and Nicolette join us to encourage our wonderful listeners to call 888-931-0901, or visit http://www.kkfi.org to support 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio during our Fall Fund Drive Show.
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
Outer Reaches Fest with Dedric Moore, Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, Nathan Reusch, Krysztof Nemeth + She Breathes Fire with Jennifer Owen & Stacy Busch + Marty Bush
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Teri Quinn photograph by Kelly Powell
Monta At Odds – “When I’m Gone (feat. Teri Quinn)” from: Peak of Eternal Light / The Record Machine / July 23, 2021 [Monta At Odds has traced its adventure from its inception to vocalist Teri Quinn’s addition to their sleek, indie-Tronic cascade. An electric drum punch and layers of buzzing synths anchor Quinn’s pleading words, depositing the fact that “we both know you’ll feel better when I’m gone.” It’s the hard choice of ending a relationship and hanging on for dear life. // Monta At Odds is a Kansas City combo led by the brothers Dedric and Delaney Moore. The two have played music together all their lives and have been exploring the Monta sound since the band’s debut in 2000. // In 2020 the band added acclaimed vocalists, guitarists, and songwriters Mikal Shapiro and Teri Quinn to the band’s lineup. With Mikal and Teri’s otherworldly vocal contributions. // On December 18, 2020 Monta released A GREAT CONJUNCTION their 5-song EP released just in to coincide with the ‘double-planet’ convergence of Jupiter and Saturn on December 21 which last occurred in 1226. The EP featured Krystof Nemeth, Teri Quinn, Alexander Thomas, Dedric Moore and Matthew Heinrich.] [Teri Quinn released her own single version of “When I’m Gone” on June 14, 2023. It was one of 4 new songs on her EP DEAFENING SILENCE, released on June 30, 2023 Tracked live at Element Recording and Mastering Studios with Teri Quinn on banjo & vocals, Landon Hambright on guitar & vocals, John O’keefe on bass, and Ryan Smith on drums. // This single follows Teri’s earlier single release”Running Away” released June 2, 2023 with John O’keefe on bass, Ryan Smith on Drums, Landon Hambright on guitar. Produced and Engineered by Joel Nanos at Element Recording & Mastering Studios. And the single “Sweet Savannah” released February 26, 2020 Produced and engineered by Chase Horseman at Element Recording Studios. Mastered by Joel Nanos at Element Recording Studios. Teri was nominated for Best Musician for the 2018 Pitch Awards. // Teri Quinn is a Kansas City based, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose primary songwriting instrument is the banjo. She uses the banjo as a way to create soundscapes drawing you in to her tales of wandering and self-discovery., originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Teri moved to Kansas City in 2009 to study clarinet performance and Music Composition at the UMKC’s Conservatory of Music where she graduated in 2013. Along with being a touring solo artists Teri has also played with Claire and the Crowded Stage, Abandoned Bells, True Lions, and Monta.]
[Teri Quinn plays Outer Reaches Fest, on Friday, October 13 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, with Bombino, The Philistines, and Saving Miles Lemon]
Stacy Busch – “Nature’s Consult” from: She Breathes Fire / Stacy Busch / October 6, 2023 [This is from the score of SHE BREATHES FIRE. This track is a draft where Stacy Busch is singing many of the parts instead of the vocal ensemble, who will sing these parts live. On October 5, 2022, Stacy Busch released Finder. It was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. FINDER was written during the 8 week international and virtual residency OneBeat Virtual 3. Each piece was created using home audio and visual recordings from the musicians in the residency program. The majority of the tracks in the pieces are, in fact, samples from these recordings that have been manipulated in various ways. Stacy writes, “Thank you to OneBeat, Found Sound Nation and the U.S. Department of State Cultural Affairs for the opportunity to participate in OneBeat Virtual 3. Additionally, thank you to the entire cohort of OneBeat Virtual 3 fellows for their artistry and inspiration and to Anton Maskeliade for facilitating this process.” // Featuring: Goodluck Babatunde, Eduardo Pininga, Lucy Little, A.yoni Jeffries, Kateyrna Kostrova, Ivona Eterović, Takahara Suiko, Sokhibjon Kurbanov, Anton Maskeliade, Tewdros Fantahun Ejigu, Bawari Basanti, Sruti Sarathy, J.J. Pearse // Thank you to Gorbi for all album artwork and Vaughan Harrison for photography. // Earlier in 2022 Stacy Busch released music from the production of:“When/Time” originally presented in Charlotte Street Foundation’s Black Box Theater, 3333 Wyoming St., KCMO, on June 25 & 26, 2021. Busch was named a 2020 Charlotte Street Foundation Generative Performing Artist. This project, intended for 2020, was delayed due to the pandemic. “When/Time,” was created to also go on tours to health centers, behavioral health/addiction centers, and schools. “What is certain is that Busch is an important emerging compositional voice, fearless in its vulnerability, and able to pull disparate musical genres into a cohesive whole without artifice.” -KC METROPOLIS. Stacy Busch is a composer and performer. Her concerts and productions are designed to be provocative yet accessible in order to cultivate broader artistic interest and, in particular, reach under-served and/or misrepresented communities. Stacy is the founder and president of No Divide KC, an arts and social justice non-profit that creates artistic events for social causes. Artistically, her work deals with internal conflicts that are often taken abstractly from her personal experiences with addiction and bipolar disorder. These experiences of duality both in the mind and body are universal and her work expresses this underlying human vulnerability. Stacy’s work has been performed nationally as well as in France and Iceland. In 2020, Stacy’s non-profit No Divide KC is producd the 1st Annual Queer Narratives Festival. Also in 2020 Stacy worked on composing the new music and theater production, When/Time in partnership with Charlotte Street Foundation. COVID-19 has changed the dated of this performance. Stacy also has collaborative projects in the works with The Mid America Freedom Band. Recently, Stacy released a new project and subsequent album, titled Mass, which she premiered at MTH Theater. Stacy has performed at Splice Electroacoustic Music Festival, she scored the documentary “The Ordinance Project” which premiered at the Kansas City LGBTQ Film festival, she partnered with Gilda’s Club KC, Owen/Cox Dance Group and Charlotte Street Foundation to compose and perform the music for “Collective: Our Stories of Cancer,” other service with No Divide KC includes partnerships with the Kansas City Ballet School and the Johnson County Library. In addition to Kansas City, Stacy’s work has been featured at the University of Colorado-Boulder, UMKC Conservatory of Music a& Dance, Western Michigan University & Central Michigan University. It has also been performed by ensembles including: loadbang, Bent Frequency and the Beo String Quartet. She is a 2020 Charlotte Street Foundation Generative Performing Artist Fellow. Stacy has received grants from ArtsKC, ArtSounds, Charlotte Street Foundation and the UMKC Women’s Council. Stacy received her MM In composition from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and her BM in composition from Western Michigan University. Her teachers include Rome Prize winners Paul Rudy & James Mobberley as well as Pulitzer Prize winners Zhou Long and Chen Yi. Other influential teachers include Guggenheim Fellow Curtis Curtis-Smith, Christopher Biggs & Lisa Coons. Prior to studying music, Stacy studied journalism at Boston University.]
10:07 – Interview with Jennifer Owen & Stacy Busch
Jennifer Owen is Artistic Director of Owen/Cox Dance Group, an ensemble she co-founded with composer Brad Cox in 2007. She has choreographed over fifty new works for Owen/Cox Dance Group. Prior to founding Owen/Cox Dance Group, Owen enjoyed a 13-year international ballet career. After training with Pacific Northwest Ballet School, San Francisco Ballet School, School of American Ballet, and the Bolshoi Ballet Academy, she went on to dance with the Russian State Ballet, Moscow Renaissance Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, Hong Kong Ballet, BalletMet, and was a guest artist with the National Ballet of Turkmenistan.
Stacy Busch, is a composer and performer who utilizes her voice with electronics to build unique sound worlds. Her work is a meeting point between art pop, avant-classical and singer-songwriter. Stacy is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of No Divide KC, an arts and advocacy non-profit that creates artistic events for social causes.
Jennifer Owen & Stacy Busch join us to share details about the world premiere of SHE BREATHES FIRE, at City Stage Theatre, Union Station 30 W. Pershing Rd. KCMO, Friday & Saturday, October 6 & 7 at 8:00 PM, and Sunday, October 8, at 2:00 PM. SHE BREATHES FIRE is choreographed by Jennifer Owen to original music by composer Stacy Busch. More info at: http://www.owencoxdance.org
Jennifer Owen & Stacy Busch thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
SHE BREATHES FIRE offers its own folkloric tale seen through the eyes of women.
The work features six dancers: Emara Neymour Jackson, Mia Steedle, Samuel McReynolds, Laura Wallner, Henry Steele, & Marian Faustino.
Photo by Mark Manning
The music is performed live by seven vocalists: Katelyn Baron, Adee Dancy, Kelley Gant, Erin Keller, Sarah Rosales, Emily Stott, & Sam Wells.
Owen/Cox Dance Group presents the world premiere of She Breathes Fire
WHERE: City Stage Theatre, Union Station 30 W. Pershing Rd. Kansas City, MO 64108
WHEN: October 6 & 7 at 8:00pm, October 8 at 2:00pm
WHO: Owen/Cox Dance Group presents the world premiere of She Breathes Fire.
WHAT: Owen/Cox Dance Group continues to deliver its mission of creating new music and dance collaborations. This fall Owen/Cox Dance Group will present She Breathes Fire, a world premiere in collaboration with No Divide KC, choreographed by Jennifer Owen to original music by composer Stacy Busch. Inspired by folklore, fantasy and nature, She Breathes Fire offers its own folkloric tale seen through the eyes of women. The work features six dancers: Emara Neymour Jackson (Solange), Mia Steedle (Boston Ballet), Samuel McReynolds (Sarah Elgart | Arrogant Elbow), Laura Wallner (Cedar Lake II), Henry Steele (Parsons Dance) and Marian Faustino (Ballet Manila). The music will be performed live by seven vocalists: Katelyn Baron, Adee Darcy, Kelley Gant, Erin Keller, Sarah Rosales, Emily Stott, and Sam Wells.
About the Owen/Cox Dance Group – Owen/Cox Dance Group’s mission is to create new music and dance collaborations, to present high-quality contemporary dance performances with live music, and to engage as wide an audience as possible through affordable live performance, education and outreach programs.
Stacy Busch is a queer composer and performer who utilizes her voice with electronics to build unique sound worlds. Her work is a meeting point between art pop, avant-classical and singer-songwriter.
Stacy is the cofounder and Executive Director of No Divide KC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that uses the arts as a vehicle for stimulating social awareness, participation and community building. No Divide KC partners with Kansas City-based organizations and artists to create artistic events that are focused on the stories of underserved and misrepresented communities in Kansas City
Stacy’s work has been performed nationally and internationally. Recently, Stacy composed the new music concert, When/Time performed in Kansas City and was commissioned by The Mid America Freedom Band to compose a double concerto for two drag queens titled “It’s For Us.” Stacy has performed at Omaha Under the Radar, Electronic Sound Studios Chicago, InterUrban ArtHouse and Splice Electroacoustic Music Festival. She scored the documentary “The Ordinance Project” which premiered at the Kansas City LGBTQ Film festival, she partnered with Gilda’s Club KC and Owen/Cox Dance Group to compose and perform the music for “Collective: Our Stories of Cancer”. In addition to Kansas City, Stacy’s work has been featured at the University of Colorado-Boulder, University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance, Western Michigan University and Central Michigan University. It has also been performed by ensembles including: loadbang, Bent Frequency, Beo String Quartet and newEar Contemporary Chamber Ensemble. Lastly, performances at international residencies include Listhus Artist Residency in Iceland and ArtHouse Holland in The Netherlands. Stacy is a 2022 OneBeat Virtual Fellow for Global Music Leaders and she received the 2020 Charlotte Street Foundation Generative Performing Artist Award. Stacy has received grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, Mid America Arts Alliance ArtsKC, ArtSounds, Charlotte Street Foundation and the UMKC Women’s Council. Stacy received her MM in composition from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and her BM in composition from Western Michigan University. Her teachers include Paul Rudy, James Mobberley, Chen Yi. Christopher Biggs and Lisa Coons.
We last talked with Stacy Busch on July 26 about the 4th Annual Queer Narratives Festival.
We last talked with Jennifer Owen on March 29 about their production, aRound & aRound, March 31, April 1& 2, 2023. Before that we talked with her on September 28, just before the Owen Cox collaboration with The Black Creatures “What Came With Spring,” Oct. 7, 8 & 9, 2022.
Jennifer Owen has choreographed over fifty new works for Owen/Cox Dance Group, including two commissions by the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and works commissioned by Island Moving Co. of Newport, RI, Kansas City Dance Festival, Kansas City Baroque Consortium, and Kansas City Chamber Orchestra. She has also created nine new works for Kansas City Ballet’s In the Wings choreographic workshop, and a winning entry for the 2006 Columbus Choreography Project. Owen is the recipient of a 2000 Princess Grace Honorarium. Prior to founding Owen/Cox Dance Group, Owen enjoyed a 13-year international ballet career. After training with Pacific Northwest Ballet School, San Francisco Ballet School, School of American Ballet, and the Bolshoi Ballet Academy, she went on to dance with the Russian State Ballet, Moscow Renaissance Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, Hong Kong Ballet, BalletMet, and was a guest artist with the National Ballet of Turkmenistan. She has performed principal roles in Giselle, Don Quixote, George Balanchine’s Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux and Donizetti Variations, and the central pas de deux in Todd Bolender’s Arena.
Jen Owen’s husband and partner is Brad Cox is a composer in the uniquely American Ellington model, Brad is dedicated to forming long lasting relationships with musicians and writing music for those musicians. Brad is a founder and contributing composer to The People’s Liberation Big Band of Greater Kansas City, and conceived and organized the ensemble’s versions of The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and The Battleship Potemkin. In addition to his work with Owen/Cox Dance Group, he has created compositions and arrangements for Sony Classical recording artist Nathan Granner, Grammy award-winning producer and engineer Russ Elevado, Paris-based songwriter Krystle Warren and internationally-recognized puppeteer Paul Mesner. Brad is a 2009 recipient of the Tanne Foundation Award, and 2010 recipient of the Charlotte Street Foundation Generative Performing Artist Award.
Owen/Cox Dance Group is a 501 (c) 3 not for profit corporation with a mission is to create new music and dance collaborations, to present high-quality contemporary dance performances with live music, and to engage as wide an audience as possible through affordable live performance, education and outreach programs
Over the last few years Owen/Cox Dance Group’s was working on a U.S. State Diplomacy Tour in Ukraine. COVID-19 local & international protocol, postponing this trip until later. Jen Owen how do you explain how your donace company has been involved in international history and now with the Russian invasion into the Ukrain things have dramatically changed.
Jennifer Owen & Stacy Busch thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
The world premiere of SHE BREATHES FIRE, at City Stage Theatre, Union Station 30 W. Pershing Rd. KCMO, Friday & Saturday, October 6 & 7 at 8:00 PM, and Sunday, October 8, at 2:00 PM. SHE BREATHES FIRE is choreographed by Jennifer Owen to original music by composer Stacy Busch. More info at: http://www.owencoxdance.org
10:19
Stacy Busch – “Eastern Wizards” from: She Breathes Fire / Stacy Busch / October 6, 2023 [This is from the score of SHE BREATHES FIRE. This track is a draft where Stacy Busch is singing many of the parts instead of the vocal ensemble, who will sing these parts live. On October 5, 2022, Stacy Busch released Finder. It was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022.
10:20 – Underwriting
Emmaline Twist – “Strange Pursuit (Radio Edit)” from: “Strange Pursuit (Radio Edit)” – Single / Black Site / October 16, 2022 [The band is Meredith McGrade on vocals & guitar, Kristin Conkright on bass, Jonathan Knecht on drums, Krysztof Nemeth on baritone guitar, and Alex Alexander on synthesizers & guitar. Emmaline Twist, is a Kansas City based Darkwave / Post-Punk / Shoegaze project. The band released the single, “Aspera” on July 1, 2022, the second single from the band’s upcoming album and follow up to the single “Drugs” released July 1, 2021. Their critically acclaimed debut LP, DISSIMULATION was released August 24, 2018 from Black-Site Records. That album was recorded, mixed, and produced at Massive Sound by Paul Malinowski, and Mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering. In 2017 the band released “Dissimulation 1,” 4 songs in digital format. This is their first single since their 2016 single release of “Vega” b/w “Moon Eyes.”]
10:26 – Interview with Dedric Moore and Krysztof Nemeth
Krysztof Nemeth is a founding member of the critically acclaimed Kansas City band Emmaline Twist where he plays baritone guitar with Meredith McGrade on vocals & guitar, Kristin Conkright on bass, Jonathan Knecht on drums, and Alex Alexander on synthesizers & guitar. Krysztop is a visual artists with a log history of playing in bands in Kansas City. Krysztof also plays baritone guitar for ambient/experimental soundscapes collaborative Impossible Objects, and baritone guitar for synthwave band Monta, and baritone guitar & lead vocals for synthpop band Static Phantoms, both with Dedric Moore.
KCK based musician and producer Dedric Moore is cofounder of the prolific band Monta who released the singles “Everybody’s Baby” on January 27, “Looking Back” on February 27, 2023 Monta released. their EP, Crystal Momentum on March 24, 2023, followed by the singles “Apples of The Sun” on April 28, 2023, “Transcendent” on July 13, 2023 and “Mobius Trip (Crashing Mix) on August 18, 2023. Monta released, PEAKED – ALTERNATE TAKES AND REMIXES on June 24, 2022 containing alternate takes with special covers, and remixes. Monta released their critically acclaimed 7th full length album PEAK OF ETERNAL LIGHT, on July 23, 2021. Dedric Moore is also one half of the band Static Phantoms a musical project he started with Krysztof Nemeth who have released an EP and multiple singles.
Krysztof Nemeth & Dedric Moore join us to talk about Static Phantoms and their new single “Deleria” to be released October 6, 2023, through The Record Machine.
Dedric Moore and Krysztof Nemeth thanks for being with us on WMM
First off, Krysztof thank you for sharing share the new single from Emmaline Twist.
Along with playing baritone guitar & bringing lead vocals for Static Phantoms, Krysztof Nemeth also plays baritone guitar for synthwave band Monta, and plays baritone guitar for Impossible Objects, and for the 5-piece, darkwave band Emmaline Twist.
Monta means “to climb higher.” Through lineup changes and scenes ebbing and flowing, this band continues that climb. Founded by brothers Dedric and Delaney Moore, Monta (originally Monta At Odds) has grown into its own community with a rotating cast of musicians and characters. More Information at: kosmiccity.com / therecordmachine.co
Monta’s core players — Mikal Shapiro on vocals, Krysztof Nemeth and Lucas Behrens on guitars, Dedric Moore on electronics, Matthew Heinrich on drums, and Teri Quinn with additional vocals.
Static Phantoms are: Dedric Moore on synths, drum programming, backing vocals, & production; and Krysztof Nemeth on baritone guitar, bass, synths, lead vocals.
The Pandemic offered Dedric Moore & Krysztof Nemeth the opportunity to pass the time and get creative in the studio exploring music & themes of New Wave music of the 1980s.
Those who follow the bands: Monta, The Republic Tigers, Emmaline Twist know about the passion Dedric and Krystoff bring their synths and guitars.
Static Phantoms are influenced by the 1080s trailblazing bands: The Glove, Tones on Tail, Tears For Fears, and Soft Cell.
We first played Static Phantoms single “Something Bright” on September 6, 2023 before it’s official release on September 22, 2023 through The Record Machine.
Static Phantoms released their debut 6-track EP, BATHED IN A BLUE LIGHT Nov. 11, 2022. This release was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022.
WMM premiered “Bathed in Blue Light” on Feb. 2, 2022. The first single from the EP, BATHED IN A BLUE LIGHT. Their 2nd single “Ghostwalk was released March 18, 2022.
With “Deleria”, the band again explores the collision between 80’s new wave & modern electronica.
Dedric Moore and Krysztof Nemeth are going to hang out with us for the next segment, But first here is their new single from Static Phantoms, “Deleria”.
10:34
Static Phantoms – “Deleria” from: “Deleria” – Single / The Record Machine / October 6, 2023 [We first played Static Phantoms single “Something Bright” on September 6, 2023 before it;s official release on September 22, 2023 through The Record Machine. Static Phantoms released their debut 6-tack EP BATHED IN A BLUE LIGHT through The Record Machine on November 11, 2022. This release was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022 . Static Phantoms are: Dedric Moore on synths, drum programming, backing vocals, & production; and Krysztof Nemeth on baritone guitar, bass, synths, lead vocals. The Pandemic offered Dedric Moore and Krysztof Nemeth the opportunity to pass the time and get creative in the studio exploring the music and themes of New Wave music of the 1980s. Those who follow the bands: Monta at Odds, The Republic Tigers, Emmaline Twist know about the passion Dedric and Krysztof bring their synths and guitars. As Static Phantoms, the duo is influenced by the 1080s trailblazing bands: The Glove, Tones on Tail, Tears For Fears, and Soft Cell. WMM premiered “Bathed in Bluer Light” on February 2, 2022. The first single from the EP, BATHED IN A BLUE LIGHT. Their 2nd single “Ghostwalk was released March 18, 2022.]
[Static Phantoms plays Outer Reaches Fest, on Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/ Sweeping Promises, Keo & Them, Alyssa Murray]
10:38 – Interview w/ Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, Nathan Reusch + Dedric Moore
We are talking with Krysztof Nemeth who provides vocals and baritone guitar for Static Phantoms and also plays for Monta, Impossible Objects, and Emmaline Twist. For two of those band he plays with KCK based musician and producer Dedric Moore is cofounder of the prolific band Monta and one half of the band Static Phantoms who have released an EP and multiple singles, and we just heard their latest single “Deleria.”
Dedric Moore and Krysztof Nemeth, Thanks for being with us on WMM
Brenton Cook studied Computer Science at Missouri University of Science and Technology, in Rolla, Missouri, where he also had his own college radio show. Brenton has produced extensive compilations of area music for the Midwest Music Foundation. He formed the Kansas City independent music label, Haymaker Records in January 2014. The label has released multiple full length albums, for Monta At Odds, HMPH!, Be/Non, Jorge Arana Trio, Riala, Mysterious Clouds, Sie Lieben Maschinen, Schwervon!, Freight Train Rabbit Killer, and others on vinyl, cassette, CD, and 7 “. He has also produced two Haymaker compilation releases, called Fairgrounds. For the last 11 years, Brenton has been a co-curator of the Outer Reaches Fest shows.
Brenton Cook, Thanks for being with us today on WMM
Mark Ronning is a musician and organizer. He plays synthesizers in the band Mr. Golden Sun. He has also played synthesizers in the band The House, formerly called Finer Spirit. Mark also plays in the band Pool Culture. Mark also performs as a solo artist playing his modular synthesizer. Mark Ronning graduated from Kansas State University in 2017 where he studied Electrical Engineering and Music. Mark joined us last year on October 12, 2022 to share details about Les Bons Bons Electriques an an electronic arts performance series he presented at Stray Cat Film Center, 1662 Broadway Blvd., KCMO. That was the same day we we interviw Brenton Cook and Dedric Moore and Steve Tulipana about Outer Reaches Fest, and now this year, Les Bons Bons Electriques is part of Outer Reaches with a special stage on Saturday, October 14 .
Mark Ronning, Thanks for being with us today on WMM
Nathan Reusch is co-founder of The Record Machine an area music label that is celebrating 20 years! This year The Record Machine presented the 4th Annual Lemonade Social at Lemonade Park, 1628 Wyandotte, in the West Bottoms of Kansas City. Nathan Reusch grew up in KC hanging out at Recycled Sounds with Anne Winter & Billy Smith. In 2011 The Record Machine founded Middle of the Map Fest as a joint venture between KC’s Ink magazine(Part of the KC Star) and The Record Machine. Under Nathan’s leadership The Record Machine has been the label for Static Phantoms, Monta, Various Blonde, Cowboy Indian Bear, LaGuerre, The Philistines, and now Black Light Animals. Nathan is also a DJ, and the man being the music moniker of Bobcat Attack.
Nathan Reusch thanks for being with us on WMM.
Brenton, Mark, Nathan, Dedric and Krysztof are here to share details about Outer Reaches Fest, on Friday, October 13 & Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, featuring “out there” regional acts, as well as national & international touring acts pushing boundaries in their respective genre. Friday headliner is Omara “Bombino” Moctar a Tuareg singer-songwriter and guitarist from Niger, with KC psychedelic bands: The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon, and multi-instrumentalist Teri Quinn. XO Blackwater will provide the video projection & visuals. Saturday will have two-stages. The Les BonsBons Electrique stage features Lawrence, new wave duo, Sweeping Promises, Wichita’s neo soul group, Keo & Them, KC’s Static Phantoms, and Alyssa Murray. KC Synthesizer Collective Stage features headliner, bizarro-pop group, Summer Like the Season, from Detroit, along with KC acts: Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.
Outer Reaches is a music festival based in Kansas City that showcases ‘out there’, left-of-center artists pushing boundaries in their respective genre. Regional acts as well as national and international touring acts are a part of the festival’s spirit, celebrating the variety of freethinking music around the globe.
Originally called KC Psych Fest Outer Reaches started in 2012 to bring together outsider musical acts and celebrate experimental music in Kansas City. While still very psychedelic, the Outer Reaches Fest has grown to emphasize musical acts pushing boundaries.
Dedric Moore launched this festival in 2012. The idea grew out of the music he was creating with his Brother Delaney Moore at the HQ Artspace in KCK. Dedric is a member of the bands Monta At Odds, Mysterious Clouds, and Gemini Revolution.
The Record Machine started as a homegrown, pioneering independent record label and expanded to events in Kansas City, MO. We initially established the label to promote and release music from our hometown, but as time went on, we began releasing records from all across the country. We aim to work with a diverse group of hardworking, dedicated, and stand out on their own accord. Our catalog is an eclectic mix; we are proud that we don’t fit into any single genre and a unifying, uplifting quality to our releases. We hope to nurture musicians and connect them with a broader audience. Tim Finn of The Kansas City Star remarked about The Record Machine’s output “[They] have assembled a stable of diverse artists who are making music that deserves national attention.”
In 2011 The Record Machine founded Middle of the Map Fest as a joint venture between KC’s Ink magazine(Part of the KC Star) and The Record Machine. In the years since, the festival has grown to encompass Music, Speakers, and Film. Bands that we love like Spoon, Grizzly Bear, Iron and Wine, Fred Armisen, OK Go, Lord Huron, Vince Staples, Cold War Kids, Charles Bradley, Aimee Mann, Atmosphere, The Get Up Kids, Daniel Johnston, Of Montreal, Kate Nash, The Joy Formidable, Two Door Cinema Club and many more have shared the same stage as Record Machine artists.
“It’s a great way for KC to show off and, more specifically, showcase our flourishing arts and culture scene,” KC Mayor Sly James said in a KC Biz Journal article earlier that year. “Events like Middle of the Map Fest bring crowds of people to our city who oftentimes leave in awe of everything Kansas City has to offer.”
The Record Machine is the collective sum of individuals, life experiences, knowledge, self-expression, and talent; our artists represent a significant part of not only our culture but our company’s reputation and achievements. We embrace and encourage our artist’s differences in race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, religion, sexual orientation, and other characteristics that make our community unique.
Les Bons Bons Electriques is a series of immersive musical and visual electronic synthesis, Les Bons Bons Electriques was created to celebrate KC’s electronic artists. This is a hat-tip to mashing, breaking, bending, oscillating, and filtering sound and video. More info at: https://www.instagram.com/bonsbonselectriques/
Outer Reaches Fest, start Friday, October 13 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, featuring “out there” regional acts, as well as national & international touring acts pushing boundaries in their respective genre.
Friday headliner is Omara “Bombino” Moctar a Tuareg singer-songwriter and guitarist from Niger, with KC psychedelic bands: The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon, and multi-instrumentalist Teri Quinn.
Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, and Nathan Reusch are sticking around, but we are going to say goodbye to Kyrsztof and Dedric.
Kyrsztof Nementh and Dedric Moore thanks for being with us on WMM
10:47
The Philistines – “1971” from: The Backbone of Night / The Record Machine / June 4, 2016 [KC based rock band with a psychedelic bent, for this recording the band was made up of: Kimmie Queen on lead vocals; Cody Wyoming on lead guitar & vocals; Rod Peal on guitar; Michelle Bacon on bass & vocals, Josh Mobley on keyboard, Steve Gardels on drums. Recorded & mixed with Paul Malinowski at Massive Sound Studios and mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering. In March 2019 The Philistines made available, two new tracks: “Further” and “Velvet Rabbit,” that will be part of the upcoming album Dysnomia. Produced and engineered by paul Malinowski at Massive Sound Studios. For these new recordings The Philistines were made up of: Kimmie Queen on lead vocals; Cody Wyoming on lead guitar & vocals; Rod Peal on guitar; Josh Mobley on keyboard, Steve Gardels on drums, and Barry Kidd on bass.]
[The Philistines, play Outer Reaches Fest, on Friday, October 13 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, with Bombino, Saving Miles Lemon, and Teri Quinn.]
Saving Miles Lemon – “‘Til the Suns Comes” from: “Harder To Sleep” – Single / Saving Miles Lemon / July 13, 2023 [“’Til the Suns Comes” will be part of the new 13-0track full-length album LOVELY to be released October 6, 2023. Saving Miles Lemon is the psychedelic-pop project of Miguel Silva-Leon. Formed in 2019 with the goal of releasing an album by the end of the year, the project has transformed into a full-blown musical odyssey for Miguel (who likes to go by Mig) to explore new sounds. It’s hard to define what genre Saving Miles Lemon fits into as they like to let the music go where it wants to go. From smooth dance pop, to blown-out stoner rock, Mig likes to keep things interesting and never stay with one sound for too long. // Having grown up learning to play the piano at the age of 7, Miguel found themselves picking up new instruments frequently from the clarinet, saxophone, and oboe to guitar/bass and drums. Just as with their instruments, Mig began practicing their production skills in high school with small bedroom projects and hardcore bands. In a way, nothing has changed, as all of Saving Miles Lemon’s music is recorded and produced entirely by Mig in their bedroom studio to this day. // Their live members include Jacob Frisbee (bass), James Wiltfang (keys), and Zeke Bockleman (drums). // As a live act, the band began performing in 2021 and quickly took over the DIY scene in Kansas City before moving on to the bar/venue scene with sold-out shows at The Rino (KCMO) and The Bottleneck (LFK). They’ve opened for national and international touring bands such as Cub Sport at The Encore at Uptown Theatre (KCMO). // Saving Miles Lemon has released two full-length LPs and a handful of singles. A third album is set to release in 2023.]
[Saving Miles Lemon plays Outer Reaches Fest, Fri, Oct. 13 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd., KCMO w/ Bombino, The Philistines, & Teri Quinn. XO Blackwater will provide video projection & visuals.]
Bombino – “Si Chilan” from: Sahel / Partisan Records / September 15, 2023 [Guitar luminary + Tuareg folk hero Omara “Bombino” Moctar knows the nomadic life well. Being constantly on the road for his music while also perpetually on the move throughout the Sahel region of Africa is the norm. So when the pandemic brought the world to a screeching halt, Bombino found himself in an unfamiliar space: being in one place. “I’m used to traveling virtually every week and then I was locked down for two years,” he says from his home in Niamey, the capital of Niger. “On the positive side, I get back in touch with my home and spend real time there with my family for the first time in a long time.” // What resulted was the follow-up to 2018’s Deran, a record that turned Bombino into the first-ever Grammy-nominated artist from Niger. This new collection of songs, entitled Sahel after the African region spanning East-West from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea, is Bombino’s most personal, powerful, and politically-minded work to date. It’s also his most sonically diverse, a quality he set out to achieve from the start, and one that is meant to directly mirror the complex tapestry of cultures and people that make up the Sahel region itself. He says, “the general plight of the Tuareg is always on my mind and while I’ve addressed it in my music all along, I wanted to give it a special focus on this album.” // To bring the songs to life, Bombino worked closely with Welsh producer/ mixer David Wrench (David Byrne, Frank Ocean, Caribou, Goldfrapp, Erasure,The xx, Sampha), decamping with his bandmates to a studio in Casablanca for ten days to lay down the album. “Bombino’s an incredible musician, easily one of the best musicians I ever worked with,” Wrench says with fondness of seeing the Tuareg guitarist up close. “What he does looks effortless, but it’s so complex. It’s such a refined style, it’s so him, it’s unique. It contains all this history in it, it’s amazing.” The feeling is mutual. While Bombino has been fortunate to have sympathetic guitarists like Dan Auerbach and David Longstreth sit in the producer’s chair in the past, Wrench provided a new level of expertise. // The ten songs that comprise Sahel range in theme from the plight of the Tuareg to the ache of lost love to the follies of youth. Opener “Tazidert” preaches patience even as the music itself urges you to stand up and move. The driving “Aitma” features Bombino’s sparks-spraying guitar pyrotechnics, punctuated by howling ululations. It’s a call-to-arms delivered in his native Tamasheq. “Let’s defend our people because we are the same regardless of our geographical position,” he says as he shouts out the Tuareg throughout the region. He explains: “When you look at the situations in each of the five countries that make up the Sahel (Libya, Algeria, Mauritania, Mali, and parts of Burkina Faso), the Tuareg people are not represented in these governments.” And only recently did that situation change in Niger. // “Si Chilan” (Two Days) is one of the oldest songs in Bombino’s extensive repertoire, first written in the 1980s. “I like to put a spotlight on songs that have persisted in my repertoire for a really long time, but haven’t made their way onto an album,” he says. “When you’ve lived with a song for that long, you’re always finding new things in it, new ways to express it. They’re dynamic in that sense – the song will continue to evolve, at least in how I relate to it and perform it. I liken it to honey, a good old song is like honey, it just gets better and better with age.” // Similarly, “Nik Sant Awanha” (My Brothers I Know our Situation) dates to the late ‘90s and is one of Bombino’s most incisive political commentaries to date, lamenting the divisions amid the Tuareg people, the risks of exile, and an even greater existential threat, the loss of Tuareg culture. “Even though geographically the Sahara desert is our home, so many of the Tuareg people are denied or deprived of certain basic necessities throughout the region,” he says. “This has been motivating me a lot, the types of songs I sing and why. I want to get people thinking about the Tuareg, to represent those people who haven’t been represented. They really need a voice.” // For the broader topics that Bombino addresses throughout the album, the hushed acoustic closer “Mes Amis” sings of youth and unrequited love. “It’s important to reflect the personal themes, to connect with people on a personal level, giving them stories and themes they can relate to,” Bombino says, adding that the extra time he spent at home, being with his children, helped to clarify his purpose. “Everything I do is in service to my family, to give to them and to better their situation.” // Wrench’s role was to present Bombino and his band in a way that captured the Tuareg sound (which spans centuries) while connecting it to our immediate present. It’s not a museum artifact, but a living ‘now.’ While Wrench made his name mixing and recording psychedelic rock &* electronic music, he heard Bombino as part of that spectrum. “To me, I see him not that far outside of those realms. The rhythms are all in 3s instead of 4s, but it has a similar effect: the repetition & intensity and the feeling it has, it’s not a million miles away from techno. Listening to his music has a similar effect on you: it can definitely take you somewhere quite different.”]
[Bombino plays Outer Reaches Fest, Fri, Oct. 13 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd., KCMO w/ The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon & Teri Quinn. XO Blackwater will provide video projection & visuals.]
10:57 – Station ID
10:57 – More Interview with Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch
We are talking with Dedric Moore, Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch about Outer Reaches Fest, on Friday, October 13 & Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, featuring “out there” regional acts, as well as national & international touring acts pushing boundaries in their respective genre. Friday headliner is Omara “Bombino” Moctar a Tuareg singer-songwriter and guitarist from Niger, with KC psychedelic bands: The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon, and multi-instrumentalist Teri Quinn.XO Blackwater will provide the video projection & visuals.
Saturday will have two-stages. The Les BonsBons Electrique stage features Lawrence, new wave duo, Sweeping Promises, Wichita’s neo soul group, Keo & Them, KC’s Static Phantoms, and Alyssa Murray. KC Synthesizer Collective Stage features headliner, bizarro-pop group, Summer Like the Season, from Detroit, along with KC acts: Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.
Brenton Cook, Dedric Moore, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch Thank for being on WMM.
Outer Reaches is a music festival based in Kansas City that showcases ‘out there’, left-of-center artists pushing boundaries in their respective genre. Regional acts as well as national and international touring acts are a part of the festival’s spirit, celebrating the variety of freethinking music around the globe.
Originally called KC Psych Fest Outer Reaches started in 2012 to bring together outsider musical acts and celebrate experimental music in Kansas City. While still very psychedelic, the Outer Reaches Fest has grown to emphasize musical acts pushing boundaries.
Dedric Moore launched this festival in 2012. The idea grew out of the music he was creating with his Brother Delaney Moore at the HQ Artspace in KCK. Dedric is a member of the bands Monta At Odds, Mysterious Clouds, and Gemini Revolution.
We just played from bands playing Friday Night October 13 featuring headliner Bombino, a Grammy award-winning Tuareg singer-songwriter/guitarist from Niger. Other acts include local psychedelic rock bands The Philistines and Saving Miles Lemon, along with indie-folk instrumentalist Teri Quinn.
The Saturday show will have two stages. Lawrence-based post-punk/new wave duo Sweeping Promises is headlining the Les BonsBons Electrique stage. Also part of the lineup are Wichita-based neo-soul group Keo & Them, KC shoegaze/new wave/post-punk duo Static Phantoms, and KC synth artist Alyssa Murray.
Keo & Them – “Be Still” from:”Don’t Say – Single / Midtopia / June 2, 2023 [“Don’t Say” was released as a “single” with the tracks: “Be Still” and “Money Grooves (feat. Greg Spero0. Kei & Them are from Wichita, Kansas.]
[Keo & Them play Outer Reaches Fest, on Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/ Sweeping Promises, Static Phantoms, Alyssa Murray.]
Alyssa Murray – “this is how it goes” from: ‘SCROLLIN’ / LYSSA RECORDS / September 1, 2023 [ SCROLLIN’ is a sonic kaleidoscope of synth-tastic beats and experimental delight. Alyssa Murray is a keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer who combines a keen songwriting sense with a playful display of sonic influences, Alyssa Murray creates a satisfying juxtaposition of synth and song. The Kansas City based singer/songwriter, keyboardist, and producer takes after some of the very best art-pop mainstays, electronic wizards, and west coast beat makers. // Alyssa has been featured on the Los Angeles based ‘Beat Cinema’ and was noted as one of KC’s 90.9 The Bridge’s favorite of EPs of 2021. She was selected to collaborate with visual-artist Barry Anderson for Charlotte Street and Eddie Moore’s ProDo Lab Series and in 2022 was awarded a CFX Grant from the Creative Arkansas Community Hub and Exchange. // Always feeling a strong pull towards songwriting, Alyssa studied piano, voice, and guitar in her teens deep diving into such influences as Fiona Apple and Stevie Wonder. Further pursuing her passion for jazz and improvisation, Alyssa moved to Kansas City to study jazz-piano at the UMKC Conservatory while immersing herself in the local music scene. Her 2015 debut ‘As of Now’ showcases her ability to combine elements of jazz with the narrative sophistication of contemporary-folk. // In addition to performing, Alyssa is an experienced music educator and teaches 20+ private lessons a week covering subjects ranging from entry-level piano, ukulele, to jazz improvisation. // She also has years of experience as a dance accompanist with the Kansas City Ballet’s community-outreach program Reach Out And Dance and Owen/Cox Dance Group’s in-school program Take the Stage. // Alyssa has a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and has studied under the direction of Bobby Watson and Dan Thomas; as well as classical repertoire with Karen Kushner and Diane Petrella. // More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com]
[Alyssa Murray plays Outer Reaches Fest, on Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/ Sweeping Promises, Keo & Them, Static Phantoms]
Sweeping Promises – “Eraser” from: Good Living is Coming For You / Feel it Records – Sub Pop / June 30, 2023 [“For more than a half century, underground music revolutionaries have taken a whack at the mundane mainstream like a piñata. England punks spat “NO FUTURE” at germ-free adolescents. Ohio new wavers devolutionized mankind with whips. Athens art school students chomped at hero worship. MetroCard-carrying riot grrrls rebirthed the bomp with a gasoline gut. In 2020, Sweeping Promises read our pandemic minds with Hunger for a Way Out. In 2023, they return with a new message: Good Living Is Coming For You. At first glance, this nouveau wave slogan offers hope wrapped around relief. At first listen, we realize this may actually be a warning. Darker still, a threat. // A band famous for their unfussy, monolithic anthems, Sweeping Promises elegantly ravage us again with another future classic. They return as a fist of velvet rose petals roaring inside a compact wrecking ball. Gone is the Boston brutalist ambience of their subterranean concrete laboratory and the revelatory single mic recording technique. In its place, a retired and resplendent nude painting studio in Lawrence, Kansas, bathed in light with high ceilings and hardwood floors. Guided once again by their surrounding architecture, a reverb-rich space remains the defining element at the heart of their highly stylized sound. A watery ghost from the golden age of art-punk now wields sharper knives and more microphones. // If the mood of HFAWO was hungry, GLICFY is RAVENOUS. In 2023, appetite is addressed in new ways: Power struggles are aired in “Eraser,” restraints are broken in “You Shatter,” anguished exclamations sting in “Good Living Is Coming for You.” The taboo subject of aging is (s)heroically dragged out into the open. Every line is delivered with such joyous, soaring layers that each punch lands like a chef’s kiss. // Sweeping Promises are Lira Mondal and Caufield Schnug. A chance meeting in Arkansas led to a decade of playing in an eclectic assortment of projects together. Their relentless practice made perfect. Bass playing Lira is an emotive bolt of thunderous energy with the iconic blast of a girl group rolled into one robust throat. Caufield is an intentional guitar player and drummer. No note or hit is extraneous. Together they are meticulous sound engineers, using space as a key ingredient to their distinct sound. Controlling every aspect of their craft, from the first note they write together, all the way through to the final mastering process, each record is an unspoiled fingerprint unique to their dynamic chemistry. // Written before the pandemic, Hunger for a Way Out was released on Feel It Records in the summer of 2020. These songs drip with the anxious urgency of a commanding live performance yet their gauzy production transports us like the fading memory of a favorite song. This distorted sense of time resonated with thousands of quarantined listeners who turned the album into a life-saving floatation device and most beloved album of the year. This is when Feel It Records (North America) and Sub Pop (everywhere else) joined forces to divide/unite and conquer; beginning with the 2021 single “Pain Without a Touch” and now carrying through to Good Living Is Coming For You. // The pandemic went on to trigger an absurd chain of events for Sweeping Promises. Under financial strain, Mondal and Schnug uprooted their lives. They surrendered their studio in Cambridge to take refuge with family in Texas. They completed over 50 demos between their Austin bathroom and a Marfa abode, but feeling unsatisfied, they sought another fresh start. When a disused church in Ohio proved too difficult to rehab, they ultimately found lasting inspiration in Kansas. With their home and studio all under one roof, life is music and music is life. //Good Living Is Coming For You ultimately reflects being thrust into a severely unpredictable world. A capsized boat isn’t entirely bad. In fact, it can be the necessary push toward finding solid ground.” -Tracy Wilson (Courtesy Desk).]
[Sweeping Promises play Outer Reaches Fest, on Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/, Keo & Them, Static Phantoms]
11:13 – More Interview with Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch
We are talking with Brenton Cook, Dedric Moore, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch about Outer Reaches Fest, on Friday, October 13 & Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, featuring “out there” regional acts, as well as national & international touring acts pushing boundaries in their respective genre. Friday headliner is Omara “Bombino” Moctar a Tuareg singer-songwriter and guitarist from Niger, with KC psychedelic bands: The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon, and multi-instrumentalist Teri Quinn. XO Blackwater will provide the video projection & visuals.
Saturday will have two-stages. The Les BonsBons Electrique stage features Lawrence, new wave duo, Sweeping Promises, Wichita’s neo soul group, Keo & Them, KC’s Static Phantoms, and Alyssa Murray. KC Synthesizer Collective Stage features headliner, bizarro-pop group, Summer Like the Season, from Detroit, along with KC acts: Wrker,Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.
Brenton Cook, Dedric Moore, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch Thank you for being with us on WMM.
Dedric Moore launched this festival in 2012. The idea grew out of the music he was creating with his Brother Delaney Moore at the HQ Artspace in KCK. Dedric is a member of the bands Monta At Odds, Mysterious Clouds, and Gemini Revolution.
We just played from bands playing Saturday night with two stages. The Les BonsBons Electrique stage features the headliner, Lawrence-based post-punk/new wave duo Sweeping Promises with Wichita-based neo-soul group Keo & Them, KC shoegaze/new wave/post-punk duo Static Phantoms, and KC synth artist Alyssa Murray.
Headlining the KC Synthesizer Collective stage is Detroit post-punk, bizzaro-pop group Summer Like the Season along with KC bands: Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack.
11:18 – (play under the conversation)
Bobcat Attack – “Wave” from: “Wave” – Single / The Record Machine / September 8, 2023 [Nathan Reusch is the mastermind behind Bobcat Attack.]
[Bobcat Attack plays Outer Reaches Fest, on Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, fon the KC Synthesizer Collective Stage with Summer Like the Season, Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com]
11:19
Outer Reaches is a music festival based in Kansas City that showcases ‘out there’, left-of-center artists pushing boundaries in their respective genre. Regional acts as well as national and international touring acts are a part of the festival’s spirit, celebrating the variety of freethinking music around the globe.
Originally called KC Psych Fest Outer Reaches started in 2012 to bring together outsider musical acts and celebrate experimental music in Kansas City. While still very psychedelic, the Outer Reaches Fest has grown to emphasize musical acts pushing boundaries.
Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch Thank you for being with us on WMM.
Headlining the KC Synthesizer Collective stage is headliner – Detroit post-punk, bizzaro-pop group Summer Like the Season is headlining the KC Synthesizer Collective stage, with local artists Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack joining in. Outer Reaches Fest, on Friday, October 13 & Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, featuring “out there” regional acts, as well as national & international touring acts pushing boundaries in their respective genre.
Friday headliner is Omara “Bombino” Moctar a Tuareg singer-songwriter and guitarist from Niger, with KC psychedelic bands: The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon, and multi-instrumentalist Teri Quinn. XO Blackwater will provide the video projection & visuals.
Saturday will have two-stages. The Les BonsBons Electrique stage features Lawrence, new wave duo, Sweeping Promises, Wichita’s neo soul group, Keo & Them, KC’s Static Phantoms, and Alyssa Murray.
KC Synthesizer Collective Stage features headliner, bizarro-pop group, Summer Like the Season, from Detroit, along with KC acts: Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.
11:21
wrker – “Champion Sound” from: Mind Work / wrker / September 27, 2023 [Kansas City based Wrker is ZacharyLaman who Chopped, sampled, tickled, and keyed. Made on the Polyend tracker. Album ART by AARON HAYES] [wrker plays Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, on the KC Synthesizer Collective Stage features headliner, bizarro-pop group, Summer Like the Season, from Detroit, along with KC acts: Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.]
Agrekulture – “Opal” from: Beet Tape / Agrekulture / March 13, 2020 [12 track album from KCK based band. ‘Produced & Performed by Agrekulture. Distributed by Fuklyfe. Mastered by J Pino at Jupiter IO.]
[Agrekulture play Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, on the KC Synthesizer Collective Stage with Summer Like the Season, from Detroit, along with KC acts: Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. Info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.]
Summer Like the Season – “Mental” from: Aggregator / Summer Like the Season / October 9, 2023 [Detroit bizarro-pop group. Everything written/played by Summer Krinsky. Engineered by Summer Krinsky and Scott Murphy. Produced and mixed by Summer Krinsky and Scott Murphy. Mastered by Scott Murphy.more info at: http://www.agrekulture.bandcamp,com]
[Summer Like the Season plays Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, on the KC Synthesizer Collective Stage with KC acts: Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.]
11:30 – Underwriting
Marty Bush – “Jealous Little Thing” from: Cowboy Chords / Marty Bush / October 13, 2023 [Hailing from the plains of eastern Kansas, Marty Bush is a torchbearer of the American songwriting tradition. His songs resonate with the weight of his influences such as Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, and Kris Kristofferson, but he has channeled their emotional honesty and unvarnished truth-telling into something uniquely his own. While his 2022 solo debut “The Long Way Home” established him as a devout follower of the country and western songwriting tradition, his follow-up LP “Cowboy Chords” (out OCTOBER 13th 2023) takes a bold step forward in establishing his voice as both a songwriter and performer. Taking the reins as both producer and engineer, Bush plays every instrument on the album with the exception of pedal steel which is skillfully manned by Devon Teran (Timbers). The result is a clear and precise vision of songs that honor the past and think to the present. Touring extensively, Bush played over 250 shows in 2022. He continued that break-neck pace into 2023, writing songs from behind the wheel and testing material in dives, honky-tonks, and juke-joints all over the US, pausing in May and June to record, then hitting the road again this July, August, September and October with Natalie Prauser and November with Johnny Lawhorn of The Pentagram String Band.]
11:35 – Interview with Marty Bush
Marty Bush joins us on the show to share detals about his new studio album, “Cowboy Chords” to be released October 13, 2023. Hailing from the plains of eastern Kansas, Marty Bush is a torchbearer of the American songwriting tradition. His influences include Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, & Kris Kristofferson. While his 2022 solo debut “The Long Way Home” established him as a devout follower of the country & western songwriting tradition, his follow-up LP “Cowboy Chords” takes a bold step forward in establishing his voice as both a songwriter and performer. Serving as producer & engineer, Bush plays every instrument on the album with the exception of pedal steel, performed by Devon Teran of the KC band Timbers. Bush played over 250 shows in 2022. He continued into 2023, testing material in dives, honky-tonks, and juke-joints all over the US. More info at: http://www.marty-bush.com
Marty Bush thanks for being with us on WMM.
“a canyon deep baritone most country singers would eat their hat to have” – Bandcamp Daily
Hailing from the plains of eastern Kansas, Marty Bush is a torchbearer of the American songwriting tradition.
His songs resonate with the weight of his influences such as Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, and Kris Kristofferson, but he has channeled their emotional honesty and unvarnished truth-telling into something uniquely his own.
While his 2022 solo debut “The Long Way Home” established him as a devout follower of the country and western songwriting tradition, his follow-up LP “Cowboy Chords” (out OCTOBER 13th 2023) takes a bold step forward in establishing his voice as both a songwriter and performer.
Taking the reins as both producer and engineer, Bush plays every instrument on the album with the exception of pedal steel which is skillfully manned by Devon Teran (Timbers). The result is a clear and precise vision of songs that honor the past and think to the present.
Touring extensively, Bush played over 250 shows in 2022. He continued that break-neck pace into 2023, writing songs from behind the wheel and testing material in dives, honky-tonks, and juke-joints all over the US, pausing in May and June to record, then hitting the road again this July, August, September and October with Natalie Prauser and November with Johnny Lawhorn of The Pentagram String Band.
Marty Bush & Johnny Lawhorn play a St. Louis Concert on Thurs, Nov. 16 at 8:00PM Marty Bush plays the Chicago St. Pub in JOLIET, IL on Friday, Nov. 17 at 7:00PM Marty Bush & Johnny Lawhorn play YPSILANTI, MI on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 8:00PM Marty Bush & Johnny Lawhorn play KNOXVILLE, TN on Monday, Nov. 20 at 8:00PM Marty Bush thanks for being with us on WMM.
The new album from Marty Bush, “Cowboy Chords” will be released October 13, 2023. More info at: http://www.marty-bush.com
11:54
Marty Bush – “Turn Down The Lights” from: Cowboy Chords / Marty Bush / October 13, 2023 [Hailing from the plains of eastern Kansas, Marty Bush is a torchbearer of the American songwriting tradition. His songs resonate with the weight of his influences such as Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, and Kris Kristofferson, but he has channeled their emotional honesty and unvarnished truth-telling into something uniquely his own. While his 2022 solo debut “The Long Way Home” established him as a devout follower of the country and western songwriting tradition, his follow-up LP “Cowboy Chords” (out OCTOBER 13th 2023) takes a bold step forward in establishing his voice as both a songwriter and performer. Taking the reins as both producer and engineer, Bush plays every instrument on the album with the exception of pedal steel which is skillfully manned by Devon Teran (Timbers). The result is a clear and precise vision of songs that honor the past and think to the present. Touring extensively, Bush played over 250 shows in 2022. He continued that break-neck pace into 2023, writing songs from behind the wheel and testing material in dives, honky-tonks, and juke-joints all over the US, pausing in May and June to record, then hitting the road again this July, August, September and October with Natalie Prauser and November with Johnny Lawhorn of The Pentagram String Band.]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on October 11 – Karen Lisondra joins us to talk about The Missouri Rep Theatre production of GHOST LIGHT to be performed in Roanoke Park on October 13 & 14. // We will also talk with legendary singer songwriter activist & actor Bitch who released their critically acclaimed album Bitchology last year and will play recordBar on Sunday, October 15 at 7:00 PM with Folk Music award winning artist, Crys Matthews.
Also next week I will be joined by Marion Merritt and Nicolette Paige for our Fall Fund Drive Show. We want to hear from all of our listeners.
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
Teri Quinn photograph by Kelly Powell Sweeping Promises photograph by Shawn Brackbill.
THANK YOU to our incredible KKFI Staff; Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers.
This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. It is a collective spirit of hundreds of people, setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the goal of keeping our airwaves, non-commercial, and open! Thank you to programmers & volunteers who made extra effort to keep our station alive
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, October 4, 2023
Outer Reaches Fest with Dedric Moore, Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, Nathan Reusch, Krysztof Nemeth + She Breathes Fire with Jennifer Owen & Stacy Busch + Marty Bush
Mark features music from all of the acts of Outer Reaches Fest. We’ll spin tracks from: Bombino, The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon, Teri Quinn (with Monta), Sweeping Promises, Keo & Them, Static Phantoms, Alyssa Murray, Summer Like the Season, Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. We’ll also play Stacy Busch, and the new single from Emmaline Twist!
At 10:05 Jennifer Owen of Owen/Cox Dance Group & Stacy Busch of No Divide KC share details about the world premiere of SHE BREATHES FIRE, at City Stage Theatre, Union Station 30 W. Pershing Rd. KCMO, Friday & Saturday, October 6 & 7 at 8:00 PM, and Sunday, October 8, at 2:00 PM. SHE BREATHES FIRE is choreographed by Jennifer Owen to original music by composer Stacy Busch. SHE BREATHES FIRE offers its own folkloric tale seen through the eyes of women. The work features six dancers: Emara Neymour Jackson, Mia Steedle, Samuel McReynolds, Laura Wallner, Henry Steele, & Marian Faustino. The music is performed live by seven vocalists: Katelyn Baron, Adee Darcy, Kelley Gant, Erin Keller, Sarah Rosales, Emily Stott, & Sam Wells. More info at: http://www.owencoxdance.org
At 10:20 Krysztof Nemeth & Dedric Moore join us to talk about their band Static Phantoms and their new single “Deleria” to be released October 6, 2023, through The Record Machine. With “Deleria”, the band again explores the collision between 80’s new wave & modern electronica. Along with playing baritone guitar & bringing lead vocals for Static Phantoms, Krysztof Nemeth also plays baritone guitar for synthwave band Monta, and plays baritone guitar for Impossible Objects, and for the 5-piece, darkwave band Emmaline Twist. Krysztof will share the new single from Emmaline Twist.
At 10:35 Brenton Cook, Mark Ronning, & Nathan Reusch share details about Outer Reaches Fest, on Friday, October 13 & Saturday, October 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO, featuring “out there” regional acts, as well as national & international touring acts pushing boundaries in their respective genre. Friday headliner is Omara “Bombino” Moctar a Tuareg singer-songwriter and guitarist from Niger, with KC psychedelic bands: The Philistines, Saving Miles Lemon, and multi-instrumentalist Teri Quinn. XO Blackwater will provide the video projection & visuals. Saturday will have two-stages. The Les BonsBons Electrique stage features Lawrence, new wave duo, Sweeping Promises, Wichita’s neo soul group, Keo & Them, KC’s Static Phantoms, and Alyssa Murray. KC Synthesizer Collective Stage features headliner, bizarro-pop group, Summer Like the Season, from Detroit, along with KC acts: Wrker, Agrekulture, and Bobcat Attack. More info at: http://www.outerreachesfest.com.
At 11:30 Mark talks with Marty Bush about his new studio album, “Cowboy Chords” to be released October 13, 2023. Hailing from the plains of eastern Kansas, Marty Bush is a torchbearer of the American songwriting tradition. His influences include Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, & Kris Kristofferson. While his 2022 solo debut “The Long Way Home” established him as a devout follower of the country & western songwriting tradition, his follow-up LP “Cowboy Chords” takes a bold step forward in establishing his voice as both a songwriter and performer. Serving as producer & engineer, Bush plays every instrument on the album with the exception of pedal steel, performed by Devon Teran of the KC band Timbers. Bush played over 250 shows in 2022. He continued into 2023, testing material in dives, honky-tonks, and juke-joints all over the US. More info at: http://www.marty-bush.com
Teri Quinn photograph by Kelly Powell Sweeping Promises photograph by Shawn Brackbill.
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Spencer Brown aka Daisy Buckët + IV0RY BLUE + New & MidCoastal Releases
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Ron & The Hip Tones w/ Ursula Rucker – “People” from: “People” – Single / Brewerytown Records / September 28, 2023 [In his teens and twenties, singer-songwriter Ron Aikens was a promising voice out of South Philadelphia. He had earned a spot in United Image, a Soul music group that eventually signed to Stax/Volt Records and was making waves. However, fate anchored Aikens’ dreams just as things were taking off. “Right around that time that record was playing on the air and everything, I got snatched,” he says. More than 50 years later, Ron Aikens is still affected by the turn of events that landed him behind bars for much of the 1970s. The subject conjures palpable emotions for the singer in his pauses and silence. At Graterford prison, Ron eventually joined a band on the inside called, Power Of Attorney—a storied Polydor Records-backed band with ties to James Brown, Shep Gordon, and Stan Vincent. In this chapter, Ron appeared on television, met celebrities, shared stages with Stevie Wonder, and lived out some glory as he and his band-mates became a touring sensation all while incarcerated—even though the band consisted of 4 lifers. Upon his prison release, the talent made several attempts to rebuild his dream. However, bad timing and bad business dealings ultimately left him hapless and hopeless. Forty years ago, Ron hung up his microphone and accepted a long-time janitorial position at Philly’s City Hall. A man moved on with life as the music business moved on without a talented artist. “I had nowhere to hide” declares Aikens, “so I had to just leave it all behind.” The music is alive and very symbolic of Ron Aikens’ life, evolution, and perspective. His newfound interest in his own music perhaps encouraged him to make one more swing at a dream that goes back nearly three-quarters of a century. “I’m here. I’m breathing,” he says in a West Philly coffee shop with a smile and wide eyes. “I ain’t gone yet. If I’m gonna breathe, I need to sing!” Ron & The Hip Tones are: Ron Aikens on vocals, Fred Burman on drums, Doug O’Donnell on guitar, Dave Cope on guitar, Thomas McKee on keyboards, and Brendan McGeehan on bass. Ron & The Hip Tones released the singles “Do What I Wanna Do” and “Baby Are You Ready” on May 5, 2023. More information at http://www.brewerytownbeats.com]
Frogpond – “It’s Not Over” from: TimeThief / Black-Site Records / November 19, 2021 [Newly reformed KC indie rock band, Frogpond, will release TimeThief, its first album in over twenty years on November 19, 2021, on the KC record label cooperative Black Site. For this recording Frogpond is: singer/guitarist and founder Heidi Phillips, long-time bassist, Justine Volpe, with Kristin Conkright on rhythm guitar, and Michelle Bacon on drums. More info at: http://black-site.org/frogpond // Frogpond digitally reissued their Au 1996 vinyl and cassette release Count To Ten on March 12, 2021, 25 years after its original release on August 9, 1996 on Columbia Records. Frogpond was formed in Warrensburg, Missouri. The band existed from 1994-2000, primarily performing in Kansas City and Lawrence, Kansas. COUNT TO TEN was the band’s 12-track national debut full length released on Tristar Music – Columbia on CD and vinyl in 1996 with songs written by Heidi Phillips, with Heidi Phillips on vocals & guitar, Justine Volpe on bass, Megan Hamilton on drums, Kristie Stemel on guitar and backing vocals. Art Alexakis (of the band Everclear) served as producer and contributed backing vocals. // In 1999 Frogpond released the 13-track second album, SAFE RIDE HOME on C2 Records – Columbia, on CD and vinyl with songs written by Heidi Phillips, and with Heidi Phillips on vocals & guitar, Justine Volpe on bass & backing vocals, and Billy Johnson on drums. The album was recorded by Doug McBride at Gravity Studios in Chicago who also served as producer and contributed electric piano and piano. // In 1994 Frogpond self released their 8-song cassette release 2%. 2% was produced, engineered, and mixed at Red House Recording, Lawrence, Kansas, October 1994. Heidi Phillips joined us LIVE onWMM on November 10, 2021.] [Lawrence based singer songwriter Heidi Lynne Gluck has been playing bass with the band for live shows.]
[Frogpond plays the Summer Concert Series at The Percheron, the rooftop of the Crossroads Hotel, 2101 Central Street, KCMO, with Chase The Horseman opening, TONIGHT on Wednesday, September 27, doors at 7:00 Show at 8:00 PM. More info at http://www.crossroadshotelkc.com]
The Ratboys – “Morning Zoo” from: The Window / Topshelf Records / August 25, 2023 [Chicago’s beloved Ratboys release their fourth studio album, The Window, out now via Topshelf Records featuring the single “It’s Alive!” and are about to launch their US tour. After more than ten years and four studio albums, The Window finally captures Ratboys as they were always meant to be heard—expansive while still intimate, audacious while still tender—the sound of four friends operating as a single, cohesive unit. The album is sonically diverse, shifting wildly from track to track and flexing everything from fuzzy power pop choruses to warm country twang to mournful folk.// Lyrically, The Window sees Julia Steiner at her most personal, reflecting on love and grief with occasional humor and levity. She frequently leans on windows as a theme—the idea of an interrupted connection, the feeling of being near someone without being fully present—like on the pounding lead single, “It’s Alive!” Opening with Steiner’s honeyed vocals, “Outside my window the birds dance alone // I sit back and take it in // Like some sort of medicine,” it’s a bright and vivacious track that, in Steiner’s words, captures “the overarching feeling of the world spinning on beneath you while you’re stuck in one place.” In the video, directed by John TerEick, Ratboys play in an empty house, as its owners slowly start to move in. // The Window marks a number of firsts for the band. Throughout the last few years, Sean Neumann (bass) and Marcus Nuccio (drums) became full-time members alongside Julia Steiner (vocals, guitar) and Dave Sagan (guitars), making The Window the first album Ratboys have written collaboratively from start to finish. It was also the first time they’d ever traveled outside their home base of Chicago to record an album, journeying to Seattle to work with producer Chris Walla (Death Cab for Cutie, Tegan and Sara, Foxing) for three weeks. The group worked on the arrangements together over the course of a year and half, so by the time the band showed up to the Hall of Justice Recording Studio in February 2022, The Window’s songs were well rehearsed and airtight. “We spent 2020 demoing the songs, and spent 2021 practicing them,” says Steiner. “We practiced twice a week for six months, exploring the songs and developing them. We’d send early versions to Chris and he’d give us notes. It went like that for weeks. It was such a dedicated and intentional process.”]
Dogstar – “Everything Turns Around” from: Somewhere Between the Power Lines & Palm Trees / Dilion Street Records / Oct. 6, 2023 [Dogstar is an American alternative rock band from Los Angeles, California. They were initially active from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s, during which time the band found moderate success but garnered significant media attention due to the band’s bassist being Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves. // The band officially reformed in May 2023 for a performance at the BottleRock Napa Valley music festival. // The genesis of Dogstar was a chance encounter between Robert Mailhouse and Keanu Reeves in a supermarket in 1991. Mailhouse was wearing a Detroit Red Wings hockey sweater, and Reeves (an avid hockey fan and a keen player of the sport) asked if Mailhouse needed a goalie. As the two men formed a friendship, they began jamming together, and were joined by Gregg Miller as the original lead guitarist and singer in 1992. Reeves said that one thing led to another in the band’s histry: “You know, we started in a garage, and then you end up starting to write songs, and then you’re like “Let’s go out and play them!”, and then you’re like “Let’s go on tour!”, and then…you’re playing.” — Keanu Reeves in an interview with Jimmy Fallon. // The band originally called themselves Small Fecal Matter, and then BFS (Big Fucking Shit, or Big Fucking Sound), before settling on Dogstar, after Mailhouse found the name in the book Sexus, written by Henry Miller. // In the years following the band’s final performance in 2002, its three members occasionally met up for jam sessions at Mailhouse’s home in Silver Lake. The beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020 led the band members to spend more time together in quarantine. Eight-hour rehearsal days soon turned into songwriting sessions; within two and a half months, the band had written more than enough songs for a new album, which they enlisted Dave Trumfio to produce. In July 2022, a post on Dogstar’s Instagram account declared, “We’re back”. // DOGSTAR in capital letters, colored with a orange and yellow gradient Band logo used since 2023. In May 2023, Dogstar gave its first public performance in over 20 years at the BottleRock Napa Valley music festival, after an invitation from the festival’s organizers. The performance consisted of songs from the band’s first two albums, alongside new music from their upcoming third album. Two months later, the band released the single “Everything Turns Around” and announced their new album titled Somewhere Between the Power Lines and Palm Trees, set to be released on October 6, 2023. The band also announced a 25-date tour in North America and Japan in support of the album, beginning August 10 in Hermosa Beach, California. // Band members include: Keanu Reeves on bass, vocals (1991–2002, 2023–present), Robert Mailhouse on drums, vocals (1991–2002, 2023–present), and Bret Domrose on lead guitar, lead vocals (1995–2002, 2023–present), backing guitar and vocals (1994–1995)]
[DOGSTAR play Liberty Hall at 644 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS, on Friday, Sept. 29, ]
Bette Smith – “13th Amendment” from: 27: The Most Perfect Album / New York Public Radio / September 18, 2018 [27: The Most Perfect Album is like a Constitutional mix-tape, a Schoolhouse Rock for the 21st century. The album features original tracks by artists like Dolly Parton, Kevin Morby, and Devendra Banhart: 27+ songs inspired by the 27 Amendments. This was a Promotional CD from WNYC Studios — a sampler of their 35-track, streaming-only release of newly-written songs about the Constitution. // Bette Smith is an American soul, rock and blues singer. She has worked work with Jimbo Mathus, Kirk Fletcher, Luther Dickinson and Patterson Hood. She tours on the North American blues festival circuit and in Europe. // Sharon Meriel Kathleen Smith, known professionally as Bette Smith, grew up in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. Her parents are Trinidadian. Her father, a choir director in the Seventh-day Adventist Church that the family attended, taught her to sing. She sang featured roles in the church’s gospel choir. // She released an album called From The Well Of My Inner Child in 2006 using the stage name “Bette Stuy.” She graduated from Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Los Angeles in 2010, and studied at The New School in New York City, where in 2014 she earned a B.S. in Liberal Arts with an emphasis on Creative Arts Therapy, and at Columbia’s School of Social Work. To earn a living she worked as a receptionist and on Wall Street.// She was inducted into the New York Blues Hall of Fame in 2012. // In 2013 her older brother Louis, dying of kidney failure, urged her to further pursue her dreams of becoming a professional full-time singer. Again using the name Bette Stuy, she released in 2015 the EP Introducing Bette Stuy: This is Neo Blues, put together a band, and continued playing at New York City clubs and on the street. // A musician who knew Jimbo Mathus of the Squirrel Nut Zippers heard her singing at a street fair and put her in touch with Mathus. Mathus decided he wanted to work with her. She went to Mississippi with him and, with a live band, they recorded her debut album as Bette Smith, Jetlagger. On July 26, 2017 Billboard premiered the video for the track “Manchild.” Jetlagger was released on September 29, 2017 on Big Legal Mess Records (a subsidiary of Fat Possum).It included original songs as well as covers by the Staples Singers and Isaac Hayes. // In 2018 WNYC Studios’ Radiolab invited her to contribute an original song to its compilation project called 27: The Most Perfect Album, with each track inspired by one of the 27 U.S. Constitutional amendments. She chose the 13th Amendment and contributed her song “Happy Warrior.” // Jetlagger received reviews in major publications. BrooklynVegan premiered the video and PopMatters the audio for the track “I Found Love.” // Smith toured in Europe promoting the album, appearing in 2018 at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and festivals in Spain, France and The Netherlands. She toured Europe again in July 2019. // Together with Kirk Fletcher she released the single “Dance Monkey” on Cleopatra Records on February 6, 2020. Also that year the same label released her single with Jesse Johnson, “Memories.” The second Bette Smith album, The Good, the Bad and the Bette, came out on September 25, 2020 on blues label Ruf Records. // Produced by Drive-By Truckers’ Matt Patton and engineer Bronson Tew, The Good, the Bad and the Bette included three songs co-written by Smith and includes contributions from Luther Dickinson from North Mississippi Allstars and Patterson Hood from Drive-By Truckers. Jim DeRogatis included it on his “Best Albums of 2020” list. The track “Fistful of Dollars” reached #1 on the Roots Music Report in April 2021. Her bookings in summer and fall 2021 included U.S. tours with the Drive-By Truckers and Kenny Wayne Shepherd, an appearance at the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival, and her own “Bustin’ Out of Brooklyn Tour ‘21.” In 2022 she performed at the Kennedy Center. Her studio collaborations in 2020 and 2021 included tracks with Joe Louis Walker, Larry Brown, Fabrizio Grossi & Soul Garage Experience, and others. // On February 25, 2022 she and Kirk Fletcher released another single on Cleopatra Records, a cover of the Rolling Stones’ “Brown Sugar.” In August of that year, Cleopatra Records released Ben E. King’s album Supernatural Soul which included the single “Stand By Me” performed by King, Smith and Ronnie Earl. Bootsy Collins and Rafael Riqueni were also guests on the album. // Smith’s summer 2022 festival bookings included Mempho Music Festival, Calgary Folk Music Festival, Blues From The Top Festival, and Kitchener Blues Festival. // In 2023 she released two more singles with Cleopatra Records – “Tennessee Whiskey” with guitarist Harvey Mandel and “Sign Your Name” with guitarist Arthur Adams – and was invited to perform at several festivals, including the Holland International Blues Festival, Harvest Music Festival and, in early 2024, on the Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise with Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Shemekia Copeland and Christone “Kingfish” Ingram. // Bette Smith lives in Brooklyn, New York. She is a cousin of gospel singer Wintley Phipps.]
[Bette Smith plays The Folly Theatre, 300 W 12th St. KCMO on Saturday, September 30, at 8:00 PM. More info at: http://www.follytheatre.org]
Cautious Clay – “Karpehs Don’t Flinch (with Joshua Karpeh)” from: KARPEH / Blue Note Records – UMG / August 18, 2023 [Cautious Clay has released his Blue Note debut KARPEH, a deeply personal new album which finds the singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer also known as Joshua Karpeh taking a giant artistic leap forward with an ambitious yet introspective song cycle about growth, conceptions of intimacy, and lineage that reveals a new side of his artistry by delving deeper than ever into his jazz roots. Following his performance at the Newport Jazz Festival, Cautious will be making a headline appearance at SummerStage in New York City’s Central Park this Saturday, August 19. // Across the album’s 15 tracks Cautious can be heard on vocals, flute, tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, bass clarinet, guitar, synthesizer, and bass. He also invites a wide range of collaborators into the fold including leading lights of the modern jazz world including guitarist Julian Lage, trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire, saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins, vibraphonist Joel Ross, keyboardist Julius Rodriguez, bassist Joshua Crumbly, and drummer Sean Rickman. Other guests on the album include his uncle, bassist Kai Eckhardt, and the acclaimed Pakistani vocalist Arooj Aftab. // For all of Cautious’ dexterity around multiple instruments, it’s always in service of the music’s narratives. “I wanted it to be musical for the sake of telling a story,” he explains. “Throughout this album, I am equating my life’s journey to an amalgamation of my family’s past life experiences, an exploration of my present, and how those pieces will influence by future.” // Cautious sequenced the album thematically in three sections with interludes throughout containing audio recordings of his relatives recounting bits of family history. The first section he calls “The Past Explained” with songs that touch upon his early experiences growing up in Cleveland including the album’s lead single “Ohio.” The middle section of the album is what Cautious calls “The Honeymoon of Exploration.” These five songs depict some of his experiences with psychedelics, which inspired self-reflection and the desire for deeper forms of intimacy with others. The concluding four songs constitute the third thematic section, which Cautious calls “A Bitter & Sweet Solitude.” Cautious posits that when we allow ourselves to spend quality time in solitude it enables us to forge better relationships with ourselves and others, therefore sparking deeper intimacy. // Since 2017, Cautious Clay has been steadily building a devoted fanbase with his heartfelt songwriting and a unique sound that moves fluidly between pop, alternative R&B, and indie rock. He began receiving wide recognition with the 2018 release of Blood Type featuring the breakthrough single “Cold War,” a naked call for emotional honesty and transparency that resonated deeply with listeners and has since been streamed more than 150 million times. The song was featured on Issa Rae’s hit HBO TV show, Insecure, and Olivia Wilde’s movie, Booksmart, and was interpolated by Taylor Swift and Jack Antonoff on “London Boy” from the pop star’s album Lover. Cautious’ other outside writing and production credits include working with Billie Eilish, John Mayer, John Legend, Khalid, Kavinsky, Melanie Martinez, Remi Wolf, and more. Following two more EPs—Resonance and Table of Context—Cautious released his debut full-length, Deadpan Love in 2021, delivering on his early promise with an album that centered on the balance between oneself and others. With his Blue Note debut KARPEH, Cautious Clay offers an even more intimate glimpse inside his highly biographical artistic vision. More info at; http://www.cautiousclay.com.]
Allison Russell – “Rag Child” from: The Returner / Birds of Chicago LLC – Fantasy Records / September 8, 2023 [4x GRAMMY-nominated singer, songwriter, poet, activist, and multi-instrumentalist Allison Russell has announced her new album, The Returner. The album was written and co-produced by Allison along with dim star (her partner JT Nero and Drew Lindsay) and was recorded over Solstice week in December 2022 at Henson Recording Studios in Los Angeles, CA. It features Russell’s “Rainbow Coalition” band of all female musicians along with special guest appearances from the legendary Wendy & Lisa, Brandi Carlile, Brandy Clark, and Hozier. Allison Russell on The Returner: “My goal with The Returner – sonically, poetically, and spiritually – is a radical reclamation of the present tense, a real time union of body, mind, and soul. This album is a much deeper articulation of rhythm, groove, and syncopation. Groove as it heralds the self back into the body, groove as it celebrates sensual and sexual agency and flowering, groove as an urgent call to action and political activism. // In just a word, it’s funkier. But as is the history of anything funky, it’s never just a party. It is a multiverse of energies that merges the celebration and the battle cry. For while an embrace of the present tense is a celebration, it is equally an unquestioning leap into battle – cultural, political, environmental.” // Since the release of her debut solo LP two years ago Outside Child, Russell’s often devastating, deeply moving, cathartic celebration of survivor’s joy has become one of the most acclaimed albums of the past 10 years. Now comes the second chapter in her story, The Returner, a body-shaking, mind-expanding, soulful expression of liberation, love, and self-respect that serves as a fierce declaration of joy for all survivors that have made it to the other side. Allison, JT, and Drew built The Returner from the bottom up with a rhythm-first, genre-fluid approach. The improvisational energy of great female artists sparked the album’s fierce joy, and provided a wider canvas for Allison’s immense, unlimited talent. In all, the new album doesn’t just deliver on the promise of the last two years, it exceeds all reasonable (and unreasonable) expectations and affirms Allison Russell’s place among music’s most vital artists and The Returner, as one of 2023’s most essential recordings. // Allison Russell has spent her career in multiple bands, including Po’ Girl, Our Native Daughters, and Birds of Chicago. After a career spent as a gifted multi-instrumentalist, backing numerous other artists, she finally dared to release her solo project in 2021. “It’s an album of strength and affirmation, not victimization,” said The New York Times in their profile on Russell and Outside Child. Following the album’s release, Russell performed on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Ellen, Late Night With Stephen Colbert, CBS Saturday Morning, Austin City Limits, The Kelly Clarkson Show made her Opry debut and appeared at the Country Music Hall of Fame and performed at the 2022 GRAMMY’s Premiere Ceremony. // The accolades for Russell have been immense. In addition to her four GRAMMY nominations, she has earned three 2022 Americana Award nominations and a win for Album of the Year, two International Folk Music Award wins, a 2022 Juno nomination for ‘Songwriter of the Year,’ and her first-ever Juno Award win for Contemporary Roots Album of the Year. Russell received two 2021 Americana Awards nominations, won three Canadian Folk Music Awards, two UK Americana Music Awards, and more. She was recently nominated for Song of the Year and Artist of the Year for the 2023 Americana Awards. In addition, Russell has consistently used her newfound platform to elevate, educate and inspire; curating the history making Once And Future Sounds: Roots and Revolution set for the Newport Folk Festival in 2021 and mobilizing this year’s triumphant Love Rising All-Star benefit concert in support of LGBTQIA+ causes in Nashville – raising over $550,000 and calling national attention to Tennessee’s dangerous anti/trans and anti/drag laws. Russell has also announced a book deal with Flatiron/MacMillan for her debut novel, a memoir based on her life and the material that inspired Outside Child and The Returner. // All songs written by Allison Russell, JT Nero, and Drew Lindsay // Co-Producers: Dim Star and Allison Russell // Recorded by Brandon Bell at Henson Recording Studios (Los Angeles, CA) Assistant Engineer: Kelsey Porter. Mixed by Brandon Bell at The Cabin Studio (Nashville, TN). Mastered by Kim Rosen at Knack Mastering (Ringwood, NJ) // Allison Russell (vocals, banjo, clarinet), Elenna Canlas (keyboards/synth, backing vocals), Elizabeth Pupo-Walker (percussion), Chauntee Ross (violin, backing vocals) & Monique Ross (cello, backing vocals) aka SistaStrings, Ganessa James (bass, backing vocals), Joy Clark (guitar), Kerenza Peacock (violin), Larissa Maestro (cello, backing vocals), Lisa Coleman (piano), Mandy Fer (guitar, backing vocals), Meg Coleman (drums), Meg McCormick (guitar), Wendy Melvoin (guitar, bass), and Wiktoria Bialic (drums). Special guests Brandi Carlile, Brandy Clark, and Hozier provide backing vocals on “Requiem”. //We first saw Allison Russell as part of the band/duo with her partner JT Nero as, The Birds of Chicago at the 2014 International Folk Alliance Conference, where they were an Official Showcase Artist . More info at http://www.folk.org. Russell was born in Montreal to a Grenadian student and a Scottish-Canadian teenage single mother. Her mother struggled with postpartum depression and schizophrenia, and Russell was initially placed in foster care. Her mother regained custody of her after marrying a white-supremacist American expatriate. From the ages of 5 to 15, she was physically and sexually abused by her adoptive father. At the age of 15, Russell ran away from home, eventually moving to Vancouver in 1998. She attended Dawson College. // Russell was initially a member of the Vancouver-based Celtic folk band Fear of Drinking. // In 2003, Russell formed the band Po’ Girl with The Be Good Tanyas member Trish Klein. She recorded seven albums with the band: Po’ Girl (2003), Vagabond Lullabies (2004), B-side Recordings (2006), Home to You (2007), Deer in the Night (2008), Live (2009), and Follow Your Bliss (2010). Russell formed the music group Birds of Chicago with JT Nero in 2012. As part of Birds of Chicago, Russell released three studio albums, Birds of Chicago (2012), Real Midnight (2016) and Love in Wartime (2018). With the group, she also released a live album, Live from Space, and an EP titled American Flowers in 2018. In 2018, Russell joined the musical collective Our Native Daughters alongside fellow musicians Rhiannon Giddens, Leyla McCalla, and Amythyst Kiah In 2019, the group released the album Songs of Our Native Daughters under the Smithsonian Folkways label. Russell was also featured alongside the rest of the group in a Smithsonian Channel documentary titled Reclaiming History: Our Native Daughters. Info: http://www.allisonrussellmusic.com]
10:29 – Underwriting
Black Light Animals – “Pink Lemonade” from: “Pink Lemonade” – Single / The Record Machine / September 15, 2023 [The latest release from the Kansas City based psychedelic soul group, Black Light Animals: Alex Hartmann on drums & percussion, Branden Moser on bass & background vocal, Cody Calhoun on lead electric guitar & background vocals, Colby Bales on lead & background vocals, & acoustic guitar. This band is also “The Boys” as in Jass and The Boys plus Clarence Copridge on keyboards, who have been releasing their own string of singles “Daydream Girl” (August 25, 20230 “GVN2U” (July 14, 2023) and “Love U Like I Love U” ((December 2, 2022). Branden Moser and Cole Bales also play bass and guitar in the soul powerhouse, The Freedom Affair. This new single follows “Persephone” that was released on September 23, 2022. Black Light Animals released their full length debut album, Playboys of The Western World on Groove King Records on July 3, 2020. Formed from the ashes of their last band, Instant Karma the new record contains lush pop vocals crooned over spaghetti western riffs, psychedelic synth, and hip hop drums. More info at: http://www.blacklightanimalsband.bandcamp.com]
Saving Miles Lemon – “Harder To Sleep” from: “Harder To Sleep” – Single / Saving Miles Lemon / July 13, 2023 [“Harder to Sleep” was the b-Side of the single release “’Til the Suns Comes” from July 13, 2023. “’Til the Suns Comes” will be part of the new 13-0track full-length album LOVELY to be released October 6, 2023. Saving Miles Lemon is the psychedelic-pop project of Miguel Silva-Leon. Formed in 2019 with the goal of releasing an album by the end of the year, the project has transformed into a full-blown musical odyssey for Miguel (who likes to go by Mig) to explore new sounds. It’s hard to define what genre Saving Miles Lemon fits into as they like to let the music go where it wants to go. From smooth dance pop, to blown-out stoner rock, Mig likes to keep things interesting and never stay with one sound for too long. // Having grown up learning to play the piano at the age of 7, Miguel found themselves picking up new instruments frequently from the clarinet, saxophone, and oboe to guitar/bass and drums. Just as with their instruments, Mig began practicing their production skills in high school with small bedroom projects and hardcore bands. In a way, nothing has changed, as all of Saving Miles Lemon’s music is recorded and produced entirely by Mig in their bedroom studio to this day. // Their live members include Jacob Frisbee (bass), James Wiltfang (keys), and Zeke Bockleman (drums). // As a live act, the band began performing in 2021 and quickly took over the DIY scene in Kansas City before moving on to the bar/venue scene with sold-out shows at The Rino (KCMO) and The Bottleneck (LFK). They’ve opened for national and international touring bands such as Cub Sport at The Encore at Uptown Theatre (KCMO). // Saving Miles Lemon has released two full-length LPs and a handful of singles. A third album is set to release in 2023.]
[Saving Miles Lemon plays Outer Reaches Fest, Fri, Oct. 13 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd., KCMO w/ Bombino, The Philistines, & Teri Quinn. XO Blackwater will provide video projection & visuals.]
Lonnie Fisher – “Mojo Misfit” from: Seeds EP / Lonnie Fisher / July 27, 2023 [Indie Roots and Gothic Rock – Deep from the grave. For most of his recent recordings Lonnie Fisher works with musicians: Chris Nunez, Tim Jenkins, Brodie Rush, Julia Reynolds, and Autumn Hayes, and recording engineers: Ed Rose. And Duane Trower. Lonnie Fisher released the 8 track album BEAUTIFUL STAR on February 9, 2023. Lonnie Fisher released his 8-song, solo album FAMOUS GIRL on January 19, 2022. It was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. FAMOUS GIRL was engineered by Ed Rose and Duane Trower with contributions from: Chris Nunez. Tim Jenkins, Tim Manning, and Julia Reynolds. On October 22, 2021 with his band Lonnie Fisher And The Funeral released HAUNTED with Lonnie Fisher on lead vocals, 5 String Guitar & Keyboards; Tim Jenkins on guitars; Chris Nunez on drums, Tim Manning on bass, & Julia Reynolds on vocals & keyboards.More information at: http://www.lonniefisher.bandcamp.com.]
Julie Byrne photo by Alexander Kellner
Julie Byrne – “The Greater Wings” from: The Greater Wings / Ghostly International / July 7, 2023 [Julie Byrne was born 1990. She is an American singer, songwriter and guitarist from Buffalo, New York. To date, she has released three studio albums, Rooms with Walls and Windows (2014), Not Even Happiness (2017), and The Greater Wings (2023). Julie Byrne was Born and raised in Buffalo, New York. She was influenced by her father’s guitar playing at an early age: “I grew up with the sound of his playing, which was fingerstyle guitar, so I would say that my style is completely rooted in his influence.” At the age of seventeen, Byrne began learning the instrument herself, after her father could no longer play due to complications from multiple sclerosis: “The opportunity to play his instrument and honor the legacy of his craft and all of the time it took for him to cultivate a skill that he ultimately had to find a way to give up—it feels like a bit of an offering to him.” At the age of 18, Byrne left Buffalo, living in various different cities in America, including, Pittsburgh, Northampton, Chicago, Lawrence, Seattle, and New Orleans. // In addition to her recording and touring work, Byrne has studied environmental science, and, in 2016, worked at New York City’s Central Park as a Seasonal Ranger. She notes, “[I] came to view it as a sanctuary, not only for New Yorkers to experience their connection to nature but also for the wildlife that take refuge there. And while the surrounding neighborhoods don’t reflect the same ethos, the parks really do belong to the people of New York and the parks department upholds that mission. I liked working in that form of service to the public.”]
Shy Boys – “View From The Sky” from: Talk Loud / Polyvinyl Record Co. / September 25, 2020 [3rd album from Shy Boys. Shy Boys are brothers Collin Rausch & Kyle Rausch, Konnor Ervin, Kyle Little and Ross Brown. Collin & Kyle come from a family of musicians. Their cousin is Kasey Rausch, their father Kent Rausch is a jazz musician and was the music teacher and band director at their High School. Their mother was a choir director. Their father was from a family of 7 brothers (Greg, Terry, Brad), many who are musicians and recording artists, including their Grandfather Dean Rausch. Kyle Rausch and Konnor Ervin were band mates in The ACBs. Collin had been playing for years in the KC area including The Abracadabras, and The I’ms with Kyle. The three shared a love for 1960s era pop rock and soon started writing their own music. In 2014 they released the self-titled Shy Boys on High Dive Records. In June 2014, the band recorded and released two more singles and one of them, “Life Is Peachy,” was featured on Stereogum. Musician Kyle Little and Ross Brown (of Fullbloods) joined Shy Boys to make the band a 5-piece. On April 4th, 2018, it was announced that Shy Boys had signed to Polyvinyl Recording Co. an independent record label based in Champaign, Illinois and home to the band STRFKR, Xiu Xiu, The Get Up Kids, of Montreal, and others. Shy Boys released their Polyvinyl debut album, the autobiographical, Bell House, on August. 3, 2018. They immediately went out on an extended national tour. On February 15, 2019, Shy Boys released their singles, “Dim The Light” and “Brick By Brick” signaling new sounds from the band. Collin Rausch, Kyle Rausch and Ross Brown joined us live on WMM on November 11, 2020.]
[Shy Boys play Replay Lounge, 946 Massachusetts St, Lawrence, KS, TONIGHT, Wednesday, September 27, a Matinee at 6:00 PM, opening for Pearl & The Oysters.]
CHOWK photo by Todd Zimmer
CHOWK – “Good Day” from: “Good Day” – Single / CHOWK / August 18, 2023 [CHOWK is Jason Buice, Dane Bridges, and Zach Hodson (drums). Good Day is CHOWK’s second single release. The song is simple and more of a mantra you could put on repeat to psyche yourself to have a good day. We recorded the single at Zach’s studio and he did an amazing job with the mix and master. Thank you for listening and for all of your support! Jason Buice on vocals and electric guitar, Dane Bridges on bass, Zach Hodson on drums, mixing and mastering: Zach Hodson. Recorded and produced at Drei Katzen Studios by Zach Hodson. This track follows their debut single release “Naturally, Easy” released June 2, 2023. Mixed and Mastered by Pat Tomek at Level Stage. More info at: http://www.chowk.bandcamp.com]
Mitski – “Bug Like An Angel” from: The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We / Dead Oceans / September 15, 2023 [7th studio album from Mitski Miyawaki, born Mitsuki Laycock on September 27, 1990, known mononymously as Mitski. She is an American singer and songwriter. She self-released her first two albums, Lush (2012), and Retired from Sad, New Career in Business (2013), while studying studio composition at Purchase College’s Conservatory of Music. The albums were originally made as her senior project. Her third studio album, Bury Me at Makeout Creek, was released in 2014 on the label Double Double Whammy. // Mitski signed with Dead Oceans in 2015 and released Puberty 2 (2016), Be the Cowboy (2018), and Laurel Hell (2022), the last of which made the top ten in several countries. In 2022, The Guardian dubbed her the “best young songwriter” in the United States. That same year, she co-wrote “This Is a Life” for the film Everything Everywhere All at Once, which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Her seventh studio album, The Land Is Inhospitable and So Are We, was released in 2023. // Mitski was born in Mie Prefecture, Japan to an American father and a Japanese mother. Her first language was Japanese. She moved frequently while growing up due to her father’s job at the United States Department of State, living in Turkey, China, Malaysia, the Czech Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo before settling in the United States. She sang in a choir in high school and was 18 when she wrote her first song on the piano.]
yeule – “Inferno (Edit)” from: Softscars / Ninja Tune Records / September 22, 2023 [3rd studio album from Yeule (stylised as yeule). It is the musical project of Singaporean songwriter and producer Nat Ćmiel (born Natasha Yelin Chang). Formed in 2012, Yeule incorporates elements of ambient, glitch and Asian post-pop. The name Yeule is derived from the Final Fantasy character of the same name (spelled differently), as well as their middle name. // Ćmiel was born Natasha Yelin Chang in Singapore where they attended school. They first started playing music at the age of 6 on their parents’ Yamaha piano and learned classically although eventually dropped taking lessons, and wanted to explore something more challenging which led them to guitar and drums. Ćmiel initially started playing waltz pieces, though they soon moved onto songs from the soundtracks of Final Fantasy X and Kingdom Hearts. They later went onto sing in a jazz band under the name Riot Diet, covering songs from Ella Fitzgerald and the Pixies. After graduating from high school, they applied to Central Saint Martins to study fashion communication and womenswear. // Growing up, feelings of loneliness and depression were present due in part to Ćmiel’s nomadic upbringing. They found solace on the internet, which would influence their later works. // Ćmiel’s first release under the Yeule title was their self titled EP on March 3, 2014. // On December 11, 2016, Ćmiel released their second EP, Pathos, which was dedicated to David Singh. // Ćmiel followed up with the OST to interactive simulator game Lost Memories Dot Net, which was released on July 17, 2017. // On September 27, 2017, Ćmiel released their third EP, Coma. With regard to the writing, they said that “I wrote this album to commemorate the people I’d lost.” The EP received a positive reception with Duncan Cooper of The Fader describing it as “dream-pop perfection”. // Ćmiel signed to Bayonet Records on July 17, 2019. // On October 25, 2019, Ćmiel released their debut studio album Serotonin II. On the process of creating the album they said that “Writing the record, I was dreadful. I didn’t ask for much, I don’t need to be happy. I just wanted to be content.” The album received a positive critical reception with Jude Noel of Tiny Mix Tapes giving the album 4/5 and saying that “Melancholia aside, it’s Serotonin II’s impeccable sound design that has kept me coming back”. //Ćmiel teased the release of their second album Glitch Princess via Bayonet Records with a track titled “My Name is Nat Ćmiel”—released at the end of 2020. The full album was released on February 4, 2022. It was qualified as “pioneering” by Colin Lodewick from Pitchfork and featured in their ‘Best New Music’ section with a critical score of 8.3. // In between “My Name Is Nat Ćmiel” and Glitch Princess, Ćmiel released the remix EP Serotonin X Remixes and the covers album Nuclear War Post X, the latter issued directly through their website as a limited edition paperback art book with a download for the entire album. // Over the first weekend of May 2023, Yeule teased some images on their social media channels mentioning the date of May 10. On that date, Yeule premiered the video and released the single for their new song “Sulky Baby” and announced that they had signed to the Ninja Tune label. They told Rolling Stone, “The creative trajectory is shapeshifting, and Ninja Tune was the most versatile with their views on artistic direction as most of my creative pitches often tend to be fringe in conceptual aspects. I admire the team’s work ethic and tastes, and they’ve also worked with other creatives I know and love to this day, it feels nice to be with them!” // Ćmiel graduated from Central Saint Martins in London for a degree in Fine Arts in 2020. // They are non-binary.]
11:00 – Station ID
Daisy Buckët – “The Look of Love” from: Welcome To Springfield / Spencer Brown Productions / September 19, 2023 [Daisy’s sophomore album, she turns to the soulful sound of Dusty Springfield, the British pop star of the swingin’ sixties known for her signature blonde bouffant and soulful sound. Daisy Buckët delves into the catalogue of the late great Dusty Springfield with faithful covers and interpretations of some of her biggest hits . // Recorded in Kansas City with local musicians including Jeff Freling, this new offering showcases a side of Daisy’s vocal range that needs to be heard to be believed. // Daisy Buckët on lead vocals; Jeff Freling on guitars, arrangements, writing horn charts and bells & whistles!; Jeff Harshbarger on bass; Ken Lovern on pianos, and Hammond B3 Organ; Brian Steever on Drums; Mark Hamblin on trumpet; Trevor Turla on trombone; James Isaac on tenor & baritone sax; Spencer Brown on backing vocals; Talya Groves – additional backing vocals (1,3, & 6). Produced by Spencer Brown aka Daisy Buckët & Jeff Freling. Co-Produced by Amy Hull and Michael Wood. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab, Kansas City, MO. Album Artwork, Design, and Photos by Spencer Brown. Dress by Donna’s Dress Shop. Rhinestone Embesllishments by Jessica “Glittahgal” Loughran. Wig by Hollywood Custom Wigs. Necklace by The Glass Sequin. Written by Burt Bacharach & Hal David.]
[Daisy Buckët emcees BOOP, BRASS & BURLESQUE, Thursday, September 28 at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 W 9th St, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. This new burlesque revue features: Annie Cherry, Mandy Ortiz, Kate Tot, Damian Blake, and The Emerald Rubber Band.]
[Daisy Buckët performs at FOLX WITH FAITH PICNIC, Saturday, September 30, at Sar-Ko-Par Park, Lenexa, Kansas, where Daisy will plays an hour-long set around 10:30 AM.]
[Daisy Buckët performs at SUNDAYS WITH SASHA SUN, OCT 1 @ 1:00PM Gael’s Public House & Sports, 5424 Troost Ave, KCMO, for Sasha Blake’s Drag Brunch at Gaels.]
[Spencer Brown Productions present the 10 Year Anniversary of HOCUS POKE US at The Folly Theatre, 300 West 12th Street, KCMO, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:00 PM]
[Spencer Brown Productions present STAY AWHILE: DAISY X DUSTY on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at 7:00 PM at The Black Box, 1060 Union Ave, KCMO in WEST BOTTOMS celebrating the limited vinyl release of Daisy’s new album, “Welcome to Springfield”, where Daisy reunites with Jeff Freling and the band to perform some of Dusty Springfield’s greatest hits. Info at http://www.missdaisybucket.com ]
11:03 – Interview with Spencer Brown
Spencer Brown studied Musical Theatre, Voice, Dance, Acting at American Musical & Dramatic Academy where he graduated in 2006. Since 2008 Spencer has been playing Trampolina in the America’s Favorite Dragapella® Beautyshop Quartet! – The Kinsey Sicks. With The Kinsey Sicks Spencer has performed all over the world, including on Bravo Television’s Watch What Happens Live! With Andy Cohen,RuPaul’s Drag Race (Season 8 Finale), and ABC’s The Gong Show. The Kinsey Sicks have garnered praise from Forbes Magazine and The New Yorker and a featured on CNN. In 2020, they released their tenth album, “Quarantunes”. Spencer has also worked with Late Night Theatre as Blanche Devereaux in Golden! Girls Gone Wild (in Tybee Island), in Designed Women (Mary Jo), The Alternative Facts of Life (Blair), Cluelessness (Cher), and A Scarrie Carrie Christmas Carol (Sue Snell). Spencer wrote a stage musical adaptation of the film, The Rose, where he played the lead role originated by Bette Midler. For 10 years Spencer has performed as another Bette Midler film role, Winifred Sanderson, in the widely-acclaimed drag “staged reading” of HOCUS POKE US! Spencer has also performed in The Rocky Horror Show (Riff Raff), and Psycho Beach Party (Chicklet), at The Unicorn Theatre, Union Station, the Folly Theater, Off Center Theatre, and the Just Off Broadway Theater (all of them in drag!). Spencer Brown is best known as his blonde wig wearing, original drag creation, Daisy Buckët, winning various honors including: Queen of Kansas City Pride 2008, The Pitch Magazine’s Best Local Album 2018, and Best 7″ Single “Pansy,” Best Cabaret Show, Best Drag Queen in Kansas City in 2019, 2021 and 2022. In 2021, Daisy was recognized by the Heartland Men’s Chorus as their first Hero of Note for her support of the chorus and their mission. On September 19, Daisy released her 2nd album, WELCOME TO SPRINGFIELD of 11 songs made famous by Dusty Springfield. Next year, Spencer will co-direct Music Theater Heritage‘s summer production of “La Cage aux Folles”.
Daisy performs 3rd Sundays at Enzo, 5:00 to 8:00 PM with Mark Lowrey on piano.
Spencer’s work for KC’s HIV/AIDS organizations has raised more than $100,000.
Daisy Buckët emcees BOOP, BRASS & BURLESQUE, Thurs, Sept. 28 at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 W 9th St, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. This new burlesque revue features: Annie Cherry, Mandy Ortiz, Kate Tot, Damian Blake, and The Emerald Rubber Band.
Daisy Buckët performs at FOLX WITH FAITH PICNIC, Saturday, September 30, at Sar-Ko-Par Park, Lenexa, Kansas, where Daisy will plays an hour-long set around 10:30 AM.
Daisy Buckët performs at SUNDAYS WITH SASHA SUN, OCT 1 @ 1:00PM Gael’s Public House & Sports, 5424 Troost Ave, KCMO, for Sasha Blake’s Drag Brunch at Gaels.
Spencer Brown Productions present the 10 Year Anniversary of HOCUS POKE US at The Folly Theatre, 300 West 12th Street, KCMO, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:00 PM
Spencer Brown Thanks for being with us again on WMM
WELCOME TO SPRINGFIELD Release Date: September 19, 2023.
Dusty Springfield
Daisy’s sophomore album, she turns to the soulful sound of Dusty Springfield, the British pop star of the swingin’ sixties known for her signature blonde bouffant and soulful sound. Daisy Buckët delves into the catalogue of the late great Dusty Springfield with faithful covers and interpretations of some of her biggest hits including “Wishin’ & Hopin'”, “I Only Want to Be with You”, “Son of a Preacher Man”, and more!
Recorded in Kansas City with local musicians including Jeff Freling, this new offering showcases a side of Daisy’s vocal range that needs to be heard to be believed.
Daisy Buckët on lead vocals Jeff Freling on guitars, arrangements, writing horn charts and bells & whistles! Jeff Harshbarger on bass Ken Lovern on pianos, and Hammond B3 Organ Brian Steever on Drums Mark Hamblin on trumpet Trevor Turla on trombone James Isaac on tenor & baritone sax Spencer Brown on backing vocals Talya Groves – additional backing vocals (1,3, & 6)
Produced by Spencer Brown aka Daisy Buckët and Jeff Freling. Co-Produced by Amy Hull and Michael Wood. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab, Kansas City, MO.
Album Artwork, Design, and Photos by Spencer Brown. Dress by Donna’s Dress Shop. Rhinestone Embesllishments by Jessica “Glittahgal” Loughran. Wig by Hollywood Custom Wigs. Necklace by The Glass Sequin
Welcome to Springfield – Song Credits:
“Stay Awhile” written by Mike Hawker, Ivor Raymonde “You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me” written by Pino Donaggio & Vito Pallavicini “Wishin’ And Hopin'” written by Burt Bacharach & Hal David “The Look of Love” written by Burt Bacharach & Hal David “Spooky” written by James Cobb and producer Buddy Buie, J.R. Cobb, Harry Middlebrooks Jr, & Mike Sharpiro “If You Go Away” written by Jacques Brel & Rod McKuen. “Breakfast in Bed” written by Eddie Hinton & Donnie Fritts “I Only Want to Be with You” written by Mike Hawker, Ivor Raymonde “Chained To A Memory” written by Eddie Snyder/Kay Rogers, Richard Ahlert “Son of a Preacher Man” written by John Hurley, Ronnie Wilkins “Losing You” written by Tom Springfield & Clive Westlake
11:13
Daisy Buckët – “Son of A Preacher Man” from: Welcome To Springfield / Spencer Brown Productions / September 19, 2023 [Daisy’s sophomore album, she turns to the soulful sound of Dusty Springfield, the British pop star of the swingin’ sixties known for her signature blonde bouffant and soulful sound. Daisy Buckët delves into the catalogue of the late great Dusty Springfield with faithful covers and interpretations of some of her biggest hits . // Recorded in Kansas City with local musicians including Jeff Freling, this new offering showcases a side of Daisy’s vocal range that needs to be heard to be believed. // Daisy Buckët on lead vocals; Jeff Freling on guitars, arrangements, writing horn charts and bells & whistles!; Jeff Harshbarger on bass; Ken Lovern on pianos, and Hammond B3 Organ; Brian Steever on Drums; Mark Hamblin on trumpet; Trevor Turla on trombone; James Isaac on tenor & baritone sax; Spencer Brown on backing vocals; Talya Groves – additional backing vocals (1,3, & 6). Produced by Spencer Brown aka Daisy Buckët & Jeff Freling. Co-Produced by Amy Hull and Michael Wood. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab, Kansas City, MO. Album Artwork, Design, and Photos by Spencer Brown. Dress by Donna’s Dress Shop. Rhinestone Embesllishments by Jessica “Glittahgal” Loughran. Wig by Hollywood Custom Wigs. Necklace by The Glass Sequin. Written by John Hurley, Ronnie Wilkins]
[Daisy Buckët emcees BOOP, BRASS & BURLESQUE, Thursday, September 28 at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 W 9th St, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. This new burlesque revue features: Annie Cherry, Mandy Ortiz, Kate Tot, Damian Blake, and The Emerald Rubber Band.]
[Daisy Buckët performs at FOLX WITH FAITH PICNIC, Saturday, September 30, at Sar-Ko-Par Park, Lenexa, Kansas, where Daisy will plays an hour-long set around 10:30 AM.]
[Daisy Buckët performs at SUNDAYS WITH SASHA SUN, OCT 1 @ 1:00PM Gael’s Public House & Sports, 5424 Troost Ave, KCMO, for Sasha Blake’s Drag Brunch at Gaels.]
[Spencer Brown Productions present the 10 Year Anniversary of HOCUS POKE US at The Folly Theatre, 300 West 12th Street, KCMO, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:00 PM]
[Spencer Brown Productions present STAY AWHILE: DAISY X DUSTY on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at 7:00 PM at The Black Box, 1060 Union Ave, KCMO in WEST BOTTOMS celebrating the limited vinyl release of Daisy’s new album, “Welcome to Springfield”, where Daisy reunites with Jeff Freling and the band to perform some of Dusty Springfield’s greatest hits. Info at http://www.missdaisybucket.com ]
We’re talking with Spencer Brown about Daisy Buckët’s second album, WELCOME TO SPRINGFIELD release: September 19, 2023.
Daisy’s sophomore album, she turns to the soulful sound of Dusty Springfield, the British pop star of the swingin’ sixties known for her signature blonde bouffant and soulful sound. Daisy Buckët delves into the catalogue of the late great Dusty Springfield with faithful covers and interpretations of some of her biggest hits including “Wishin’ & Hopin'”, “I Only Want to Be with You”, “Son of a Preacher Man”, and more!
Spencer Brown Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Spencer Brown Productions present the 10 Year Anniversary of HOCUS POKE US at The Folly Theatre, 300 West 12th Street, KCMO, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:00 PM
Three ancient drag hags terrorize some virgins in this hilarious staged reading parody based on the 1993 cult classic.
‘Tis time! It’s the farewell performance and 10th year for this Kansas City Halloween tradition. Written and produced by Daisy Bucket, The Pitch’s Best Drag Artist 2021 & 2022, the show features a hilarious local cast, musical numbers, and a feast of surprises in store for the final show!
A portion of the proceeds will benefit KC Pet Project. There will also be a raffle to win the LEGO Sanderson Sisters Cottage!
HOCUS POKE US – CAST Daisy Bucket – Winifred Sanderson Genewa Stanwyck – Mary Sanderson Chadwick Brooks – Sarah Sanderson Jessica Dressler -The Narrator Ron Megee – Binx, Billy & Others Matt Anderson – Alison, Dani & Others and Ashley Personett as Max
The Kinsey Sicks in “Drag Queen Storytime Gone WILD!” Sat, Oct 28 @ 7:00PM The Raue Center For The Arts, 26 N. Williams Street , Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Join us in a grand return to Chicagoland as America’s most potty-mouthed, politically outspoken – and longest-running – drag a cappella quartet has somehow been put in charge of morning assembly at your local elementary school. What can possibly go right?
In this brand-new a cappella musical, no Disney tune, nursery rhyme, or TV theme song is safe from their signature Dragapella® treatment of outrageous parodies in delicious four-part harmony. With over a dozen new songs, paired with scathing satire and Kinsey Sicks classics from their 30 years of appalling audiences, this brand-new musical from America’s Favorite Dragapella® Beautyshop Quartet has been rated “PG” for “Patently Ghastly.”
Trigger Warning: This children’s show is unsuitable for children, and may provoke strong reactions among people named DeSantis or Taylor Greene.
The Kinsey Sicks in “Drag Queen Storytime Gone WILD!” – Sun, Dec 3 @ 6:00PM Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, Salt Lake City, UT The Kinsey Sicks return to Salt Lake City with their hit new show Drag Queen Storytime Gone Wild! featuring their hit new single “Poof the Magic Drag Queen”!
Presented by Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce / Safe Zone
The Kinsey Sicks in “Oy Vey in a Manger” – Fri, Dec 8 — Sat, Dec 9 The Purple Room, 1900 E Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92264 The Kinsey Sicks’ heretical holiday hit Oy Vey in a Manger makes its return to the high desert and at Michael Holmes’ legendary Purple Room Supper Club.
In Oy Vey in a Manger, we find Angel, Winnie, Trixie, & Trampolina trying to sell off their manger – yes, that manger – before it’s foreclosed upon. Crises arise, secrets are revealed, Jewish-Gentile tensions surface, and mayhem ensues – all in glorious four-part harmony.
Oy Vey boasts The Sicks’ reinterpretations of classics, such as “God Bless Ye Femmy Lesbians,” “Anchor Baby,” and “Lusty the Snowman.” PLUS, indulge in hilarious Jewish satiric fare, including “Don’t Be Happy, Worry,” the Chanukah spa classic “I Had a Little Facial” and, of course, the requisite and new Christmas cuisine standard, “Soylent Night.”
Spencer Brown Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Daisy Buckët emcees BOOP, BRASS & BURLESQUE, Thurs, Sept 28 at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 W 9th St, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. This new burlesque revue features: Annie Cherry, Mandy Ortiz, Kate Tot, Damian Blake, and The Emerald Rubber Band.
Daisy Buckët performs at FOLX WITH FAITH PICNIC, Saturday, September 30, at Sar-Ko-Par Park, Lenexa, Kansas, where Daisy will plays an hour-long set around 10:30 AM.
Daisy Buckët performs at SUNDAYS WITH SASHA SUN, OCT 1 @ 1:00PM Gael’s Public House & Sports, 5424 Troost Ave, KCMO, for Sasha Blake’s Drag Brunch at Gaels.
Spencer Brown Productions present the 10 Year Anniversary of HOCUS POKE US at The Folly Theatre, 300 West 12th Street, KCMO, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:00 PM
Spencer Brown Productions present STAY AWHILE: DAISY X DUSTY on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at 7:00 PM at The Black Box, 1060 Union Ave, KCMO in WEST BOTTOMS celebrating the limited vinyl release of Daisy’s new album, “Welcome to Springfield”, where Daisy reunites with Jeff Freling and the band to perform some of Dusty Springfield’s greatest hits. Info at http://www.missdaisybucket.com
Daisy Buckët – “Wishin’ and Hopin'” from: Welcome To Springfield / Spencer Brown Productions / September 19, 2023 [Daisy’s sophomore album, she turns to the soulful sound of Dusty Springfield, the British pop star of the swingin’ sixties known for her signature blonde bouffant and soulful sound. Daisy Buckët delves into the catalogue of the late great Dusty Springfield with faithful covers and interpretations of some of her biggest hits . // Recorded in Kansas City with local musicians including Jeff Freling, this new offering showcases a side of Daisy’s vocal range that needs to be heard to be believed. // Daisy Buckët on lead vocals; Jeff Freling on guitars, arrangements, writing horn charts and bells & whistles!; Jeff Harshbarger on bass; Ken Lovern on pianos, and Hammond B3 Organ; Brian Steever on Drums; Mark Hamblin on trumpet; Trevor Turla on trombone; James Isaac on tenor & baritone sax; Spencer Brown on backing vocals; Talya Groves – additional backing vocals (1,3, & 6). Produced by Spencer Brown aka Daisy Buckët & Jeff Freling. Co-Produced by Amy Hull and Michael Wood. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab, Kansas City, MO. Album Artwork, Design, and Photos by Spencer Brown. Dress by Donna’s Dress Shop. Rhinestone Embesllishments by Jessica “Glittahgal” Loughran. Wig by Hollywood Custom Wigs. Necklace by The Glass Sequin. Written by Burt Bacharach & Hal David.]
[Daisy Buckët emcees BOOP, BRASS & BURLESQUE, Thursday, September 28 at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 W 9th St, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. This new burlesque revue features: Annie Cherry, Mandy Ortiz, Kate Tot, Damian Blake, and The Emerald Rubber Band.]
[Daisy Buckët performs at FOLX WITH FAITH PICNIC, Saturday, September 30, at Sar-Ko-Par Park, Lenexa, Kansas, where Daisy will plays an hour-long set around 10:30 AM.]
[Daisy Buckët performs at SUNDAYS WITH SASHA SUN, OCT 1 @ 1:00PM Gael’s Public House & Sports, 5424 Troost Ave, KCMO, for Sasha Blake’s Drag Brunch at Gaels.]
[Spencer Brown Productions present the 10 Year Anniversary of HOCUS POKE US at The Folly Theatre, 300 West 12th Street, KCMO, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:00 PM]
[Spencer Brown Productions present STAY AWHILE: DAISY X DUSTY on Sunday, November 12, 2023 at 7:00 PM at The Black Box, 1060 Union Ave, KCMO in WEST BOTTOMS celebrating the limited vinyl release of Daisy’s new album, “Welcome to Springfield”, where Daisy reunites with Jeff Freling and the band to perform some of Dusty Springfield’s greatest hits. Info at http://www.missdaisybucket.com ]
11:29 – Underwriting
Ivory Blue – “In A World Like This” from: “In A World Like This” – Single / IVORY BLUE / Septenber 22, 2023 [This new single follows IVORY’s previous release,”The Best of Life” from August 4, 2023 and “Control” from May 26, 2023. IVORY released the single “All Outta Love” on February 24, 2023. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2022. For COMPOUND LOVE, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, vocalist and played all instruments with the exception of: Lester Estelle on drums, Klaartje Van Lue on piano, Craig Kew on bass, Lennon Bone on drums, and Marco Pascolini on pedal steel guitar. Nick Poortman served in mixing, with Kurt Festge who also served in mixing & Mastering. IVORY BLUE’s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and give IVORY BLUE attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. // IVORY BLUE has played Crossroads Music Festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, the KCPT Screening of “Real Boy” at The Kansas City Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium. // Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. // Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. // As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics. // By 2013, IVORY BLUE was playing regularly in and around Kansas City and the first EP ‘Ready Get Set’ was released. in 2015. IVORY BLUE released the video of “Family Table” directed by Mikal Shapiro, on August 21, 2021 and the audio track was released on September 7, 2021. IVORY BLUE released the single “Good Changes” on Oct 26, 2021. Ivory Blue released the singles: “Heavy,” “Bad Weather,” “It Must Have Been Me,” “Compound Love,” and “The Start” on December 14, 2021. IVORY BLUE released their debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Red Light” on July 29, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Starlit Love Child” on October 28, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “All Outta Love” on February 24, 2023. More info at: https://linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic%5D
11:35 – Interview with IVORY BLUE
IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2022. For COMPOUND LOVE, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, vocalist and played all instruments with the exception of: Lester Estelle on drums, Klaartje Van Lue on piano, Craig Kew on bass, Lennon Bone on drums, and Marco Pascolini on pedal steel guitar. Nick Poortman served in mixing, with Kurt Festge who also served in mixing & Mastering. IVORY BLUE’s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and give IVORY BLUE attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. // IVORY BLUE has played Crossroads Music Festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, the KCPT Screening of “Real Boy” at The Kansas City Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium. // Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. // Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. // As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics. More info at: linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic
IVORY BLUE thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Over the weekend IVORY BLUE played the Plaza Art Fair
IVORY BLUE lived a nomadic existence until settling in Kansas City MO and becoming part of the local musical community. After winning a nationwide talent contest in 2017 Ivory Blue started having success with some national and international radio play which continues today.
Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families. before running away at 15.
Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying them Ivory KC, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender.
As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics.
By 2013, IVORY BLUE was playing regularly in and around Kansas City and the first EP ‘Ready Get Set’ was released. in 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and got much attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017.
Ivory entered NeXt2Rock, a nationwide talent search with over 1800 artists/bands who applied to find fresh and promising rock artists.
The top 5 national bands battled it off for the win in Los Angeles CA at the legendary Viper Room, with judges Scott Borchetta (BMLG), John Varvatos (fashion designer), Steve Jones (Sex Pistols Guitarist and Host of “Jonesy’s Jukebox”), Desmond Child (Musician, producer), Chris Lord-Alge (producer), Ivory Blue won over the judges and became the grand prize winner! Ivory
Ivory won the contest and a one-year record deal with BMLG who re-released the song Ready Get Set from the 2015 EP. Ivory’s 2018 re-release of ‘Ready Get Set’ undauntedly received National and International airplay within weeks.
NeXt2Rock Judges Comments about Ivory Blue:
“You got star quality and a lot of potential” by Steve Jones (Sex Pistols Guitarist and Host of “Jonesy’s Jukebox” on KLOS (95.5) Los Angeles, CA, USA)
“Giving us the diamond in the rough we can only dream of, the foundation that’s built underneath it, that’s what music is made from. by Chris Lord-Alge (Engineer/Mixer).
“I love everything about you, you sing what you live, you’re fantastic” by Desmond Child (Musician \ Songwriter and Producer).
“We’ve been waiting for the WOW, and you are the WOW”, “You’re a true artist” by John Varvatos (Fashion Designer and Record Label Head)
“You exude artistry from the minute you step on that stage” by Scott Borchetta – Big Machine Label Group president and CEO.
“There’s something special about you”, “You’re a true artist” by Gavin Rossdale (British musician, singer, lead singer and rhythm guitarist of the rock band BUSH).
Ivory Blue has played Crossroads Music festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, Kansas City Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium.
IVORY BLUE started writing music at a very young age, creating their unique alt-rock sound, using a tape recorder to superimpose sounds that added to a song production. After starting performances in coffee shops and small venues, they began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, IVORY BLUE settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting a following for their strong vocals and deeply personal lyrics. On July 29th, 2022, and after studying the craft of recording and self- producing, this amazing singer-songwriter with a passionate love for everyone struggling through life, released their first full length album, COMPOUND LOVE. This was followed by their single, “Red Light” and “Starlit Love Child.”
In February 2020 and after studying the craft of recording and self-producing, this amazing singer-songwriter with soaring vocals, passionate love for everyone struggling through life, released ‘Elite Dreamland’. There are no words to describe the incredible artistry behind this song. a single that hits your heart about understanding how it feels to be misunderstood in a world of people that seem to know what they are doing.
IVORY BLUE produces all the tracks with the exception of Drums and Bass. Ivory is currently working with Lester Estelle (Drummer for Kelly Clarkson), Craig Kew (Bass) KC, Kurt Festge (Mastering | Citizen Kane & Vilent Femmes) NC. and Nick Poortman (LA based Los Angeles based Producer, Engineer, Mixer, and Songwriter) Nick has worked alongside producers including Justin Gray, Gil Norton, Big Tank, and Greg Haver on sessions throughout the USA, UK, Europe, and New Zealand.
Ivory Blue released the video of ‘FAMILY TABLES’ on August 21, 2021 and the track was released on September 7, 2021. Ivory Blue is currently finishing the first full length CD/Album ‘Compound Love’ to be released in 2021 as well as the Red Light EP for 2022.
“Family Tables” hit #1 on Banks Radio in Australia the first week of the release. 23 countries have listed on Ivory’s Spotify reports and that after just 1 week released.
Ivory Blue – “The Best of Life” from: “The Best of Life” – Single / IVORY BLUE / August 4, 2023 [This new single follows IVORY’s previous release, “Control” from May 26, 2023. IVORY released the single “All Outta Love” on February 24, 2023. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2022. For COMPOUND LOVE, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, vocalist and played all instruments with the exception of: Lester Estelle on drums, Klaartje Van Lue on piano, Craig Kew on bass, Lennon Bone on drums, and Marco Pascolini on pedal steel guitar. Nick Poortman served in mixing, with Kurt Festge who also served in mixing & Mastering. IVORY BLUE’s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and give IVORY BLUE attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. // IVORY BLUE has played Crossroads Music Festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, the KCPT Screening of “Real Boy” at The Kansas City Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium. // Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. // Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. // As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics. // By 2013, IVORY BLUE was playing regularly in and around Kansas City and the first EP ‘Ready Get Set’ was released. in 2015. IVORY BLUE released the video of “Family Table” directed by Mikal Shapiro, on August 21, 2021 and the audio track was released on September 7, 2021. IVORY BLUE released the single “Good Changes” on Oct 26, 2021. Ivory Blue released the singles: “Heavy,” “Bad Weather,” “It Must Have Been Me,” “Compound Love,” and “The Start” on December 14, 2021. IVORY BLUE released their debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Red Light” on July 29, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Starlit Love Child” on October 28, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “All Outta Love” on February 24, 2023. More info at: https://linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic%5D.
Samara Joy – “Tight” from: “Tight” – Single / Verve / September 8, 2023 [Two-time GRAMMY-winner Samara Joy has returned with her new single “Tight.” Featuring Joy with her working band (pianist Luther Allison, bassist Mikey Migliore and drummer Evan Sherman), the track was recorded at the legendary Electric Lady Studios in NYC. Originally written by Betty Carter and a true showcase of Joy’s incredible range, “Tight” has been a fan favorite during Joy’s onstage sets. // The release of “Tight” continues a whirlwind year that saw Joy take home the auspicious Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album awards at this year’s GRAMMY’s. Joy also released the deluxe edition of her album Linger Awhile, which includes brand new music plus fan favorites like “Guess Who I Saw Today” and “Can’t Get Out Of This Mood.” // Since Samara’s breakout GRAMMY wins, Linger Awhile has reached #1 on Amazon Best Sellers, Billboard Jazz, Pandora Trendsetters, iTunes and Amazon’s digital-music and CD sales, and more. Samara has garnered over nearly 1 million followers on Instagram and TikTok, and her tour dates all over the world have rapidly sold out. // With her GRAMMY-Award winning and chart-topping album, Linger Awhile, 23-year-old Samara Joy makes her case to join the likes of Sarah, Ella, and Billie as the next mononymous jazz singing sensation recorded by the venerable Verve Records. Her voice, rich and velvety yet precociously refined, has already earned her legions of fans in addition to millions of likes on TikTok — cementing her status as perhaps the first Gen Z jazz singing star. In February 2023, Samara Joy took home two GRAMMYs – Best Jazz Vocal Album and the auspicious Best New Artist award.// Samara Joy McLendon, is known professionally as Samara Joy. She is an American jazz singer. She won the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition in 2019 and was named Best New Artist by Jazz Times for 2021. // A native of the Castle Hill section of the Bronx, Joy was born in 1999 into a musical family. Her paternal grandparents, Elder Goldwire and Ruth McLendon, were founders of Philadelphia gospel group The Savettes. Her father, a bass player who has toured with gospel singer/songwriter/producer Andraé Crouch, introduced her to gospel greats like The Clark Sisters, and soul & Motown were also a big presence in her home. // At Fordham High School for the Arts she performed with the jazz band, and won Best Vocalist at Fordham University’s “Essentially Ellington” competition at Lincoln Center. But she first encountered jazz in a meaningful way when she enrolled in the jazz program at SUNY’s Purchase College as a voice major, and was named an Ella Fitzgerald Scholar. Friends there introduced her to the great jazz vocalists like Sarah Vaughan and Fitzgerald and instrumentalists like Kenny Washington, Jon Faddis (with whom she studied) and Ingrid Jensen. While she was still in college, before the release of her 1st album, film director Regina King called her “a young woman who seems like Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald are both living in her body.” // In 2019, as Samara McLendon, she won the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition. // Working with producer and eventual manager Matt Pierson, she recorded her self-titled debut album while still in college, graduating magna cum laude in 2021. Samara Joy was released on 9 July 2021 with Whirlwind Records. // On February 15, 2022 she performed on Today with guitarist Pasquale Grasso and performed again on Today in Sept. 2022. // She released a number of viral video performances, including one that had been viewed over 1.5 million times as of Oct. 2020.// In February 2021 she was featured in Women of Color on Broadway, Inc.’s music video of “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess and on jazz pianist Julius Rodriguez’s album Let Sound Tell All. // Jazz Times named her Best New Artist for 2021. // On June 15, 2022 she was featured at Carnegie Hall’s 16th Annual Notable Occasion. and appeared at the Newport Jazz Festival. On Sept. 16, 2022 she released her 2nd album, Linger Awhile, on Verve Records. The album features drummer Kenny Washington, guitarist Pasquale Grasso, pianist Ben Paterson, & bassist David Wong. // On Feb. 5, 2023, Samara Joy won 2 Grammy Awards, for Best New Artist and Best Jazz Vocal Album for Linger Awhile.]
[Samara Joy plays The Folly Theatre, 300 W 12th St. KCMO on Saturday, October 14, 2023]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on October 4, 2023, Jennifer Owen of Owen Cox Dance Group and Stacy Busch of No Divide KC join us to talk about the world premiere of She Breathes Fire, at City Stage Theatre, Union Station 30 W. Pershing Rd. KCMO, October 6 & 7 at 8:00 PM, October 8 at 2:00 PM.
Also next weekKrysztof Nemeth shares the new Emmaline Twist single, and Dedric Moore joins us to share new music from Static Phantoms. We will also talk with Brenton Cook, Nathan Reusch and Mark Ronning about OUTER REACHES FEST on October 13 and 14 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd, KCMO.
We also welcome Marty Bush who share details about his new album COWBOY CHORDS to be released October 13, 2023.
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
CHOWK photo by Todd Zimmer Julie Byrne photo by Alexander Kellner
THANK YOU to our incredible KKFI Staff; Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers.
This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. It is a collective spirit of hundreds of people, setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the goal of keeping our airwaves, non-commercial, and open! Thank you to programmers & volunteers who made extra effort to keep our station alive
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Spencer Brown aka Daisy Buckët + IV0RY BLUE + New & MidCoastal Releases
Mark will spin more New & MidCoastal Releases from: Saving Miles Lemon, Frogpond, Black Light Animals, Daisy Buckët, Shy Boys, IVORY BLUE, Lonnie Fisher, CHOWK, Allison Russell, Julie Byrne, Samara Joy, Bette Smith, Ratboys, Dogstar, Yeule, Mitski, Ron & the Hip Tones, and Cautious Clay.
At 11:00, we welcome Spencer Brown who since 2008 plays Trampolina in the America’s Favorite Dragapella® Beautyshop Quartet, The Kinsey Sicks, performing all over the world, including Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live! With Andy Cohen, and RuPaul’s Drag Race. Spencer has worked with Late Night Theatre in Golden! Girls Gone Wild, Designed Women, The Alternative Facts of Life, Cluelessness, and A Scarrie Carrie Christmas Carol. Spencer wrote a stage adaptation of the film, The Rose, where he played the lead role originated by Bette Midler. For 10 years Spencer has performed as another Midler film role, Winifred Sanderson, in the “staged reading” of HOCUS POKE US! Spencer has performed in The Rocky Horror Show, and Psycho Beach Party, at The Unicorn Theatre, Union Station, the Folly Theater, Off Center Theatre, and Just Off Broadway Theater. Spencer Brown is best known as his drag creation, Daisy Buckët, winning: Queen of KC Pride 2008, The Pitch’s Best Local Album 2018, and Best 7″ Single, Best Cabaret Show, Best Drag Queen in Kansas City in 2019, 2021 & 2022. Daisy performs 3rd Sundays at Enzo from 5:00 to 8:00 PM with Mark Lowrey on piano. On September 19, Daisy released her second full-length album, WELCOME TO SPRINGFIELD, 11 songs made famous by Dusty Springfield.
Daisy Buckët emcees BOOP, BRASS & BURLESQUE, Thursday, September 28 at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 W 9th St, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. This new burlesque revue features: Annie Cherry, Mandy Ortiz, Kate Tot, Damian Blake, and The Emerald Rubber Band/ // Daisy Buckët performs at FOLX WITH FAITH PICNIC, Saturday, September 30, at Sar-Ko-Par Park, Lenexa, Kansas, where Daisy will plays an hour-long set around 10:30 PM. // Daisy Buckët performs at SUNDAYS WITH SASHA SUN, OCT 1 @ 1:00PM Gael’s Public House & Sports, 5424 Troost Ave, KCMO, for Sasha Blake’s Drag Brunch at Gaels. // Spencer Brown Productions present the 10 Year Anniversary of HOCUS POKE US at The Folly Theatre, 300 West 12th Street, KCMO, on Monday, October 30, 2023 at 7:00 PM. More info at http://www.missdaisybucket.com
At 11:30, Mark talks with IVORY BLUE about their new singles “In A World Like This” released on September 22 and “The Best of Life” released August 4. These new singles follow, “Control” from May 26, and “All Outta Love” from February 24. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on February 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. IVORY BLUE released their debut EP, Ready Get Set in June 2015. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. More info at: linktr.ee/ivorybluemusic
CHOWK photo by Todd Zimmer Julie Byrne photo by Alexander Kellner
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
WMM presents: Alyssa Murray + Modern Day Fitzgerald + Shaun Crowley & Manor Records + Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran of The Exultant Stag
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Black Pumas – “More Than A Love Song (Radio Edit)” from: Chronicles of a Diamond / ATO / October 27, 2022 [When Black Pumas made their self-titled debut in 2019, the Austin-bred duo set off a reaction almost as combustible and rapturous as their music itself. Along with earning a career total of seven Grammy Award nominations (including Album Of The Year) and winning praise from leading outlets like Pitchfork and Rolling Stone, singer/songwriter Eric Burton and guitarist/producer Adrian Quesada achieved massive success as a live act, touring large theaters all over Europe and North and South America and delivering a transcendent show Burton aptly refers to as “electric church.” As they set to work on their highly awaited sophomore album, the band broadened their palette to include a dazzling expanse of musical forms: heavenly hybrids of soul and symphonic pop, mind-bending excursions into jazz-funk and psychedelia, starry-eyed love songs that feel dropped down from the cosmos. Wilder and weirder and more extravagantly composed than its predecessor, Chronicles of a Diamond arrives as the fullest expression yet of Black Pumas’ frenetic creativity and limitless vision. // In creating the follow-up to one of the most celebrated debuts in recent years, Black Pumas made a point of tuning out any sense of anticipation from the outside world. “I knew the first record was good when we finished it, but I had no idea people would respond like they did,” says Quesada. “This time around there was a lot of pressure and expectation that we hadn’t felt before, which was overwhelming at times, but we did our best to tune that out and focus on trusting ourselves like we always have.” As a result, Chronicles of a Diamond wholly echoes an essential intention behind its creation. “More than anything I wanted to make something we’d be thrilled to play live 200 days a year,” says Burton. “I wanted to be able to laugh, cry, bob my head, do the thing: it was all very much a selfish endeavor.” // Like Black Pumas, Chronicles of a Diamond once again harnesses the lightning-in-a-bottle chemistry between Burton (a self-taught musician who got his start busking on beaches and subway platforms in his native Los Angeles) and Quesada (a Grammy Award winner whose background includes playing in Latin-funk orchestra Grupo Fantasma and accompanying legendary artists like Prince). Produced by Quesada and primarily mixed by six-time Grammy Award winner Shawn Everett (Alabama Shakes, The War on Drugs), the ten-song LP finds Burton taking the role of co-producer and infusing his free-spirited musicality into every track. Although Black Pumas made much of the album at Quesada’s own Electric Deluxe Recorders in Austin, Chronicles of a Diamond also came to life in such far-flung cities as Amsterdam and Mexico City and San Francisco, with their longtime band joining in to shape the album’s explosive yet artfully crafted sound. “On the first record my goal was to make something that felt modern but without using any loops or programming or editing of any kind—everything was completely live,” says Quesada. “With this record, we threw out all those rules and created something that’s very much a studio album but also captures that crazy energy that happens in the live show.” // The first piece recorded for Chronicles of a Diamond, opening track “More Than a Love Song” instantly reveals the heightened creative freedom Black Pumas brought to the album-making process. After building a potent momentum with its brisk beats, effervescent strings, and brightly buzzing guitar riffs, the long-beloved live staple shapeshifts into a moment of pure unbridled exultation powered by radiant gospel harmonies and a spellbinding bit of spoken word from Burton. “My entire approach to singing was definitely informed by our live show,” Burton points out. “Whenever we take the stage it’s the classic us-against-the-world kind of thing, and in reaching for my greatest strengths I ended up discovering new ones. With this album I felt very free in my vocal performance, which has a lot to do with Adrian hearing something in my voice and helping me to explore that.” // For Quesada, one of the most memorable experiences in the making of Chronicles of a Diamond took place on a solo trip to Mexico City in the final stages of the album’s production. “I was finishing up a lot of the sonic manipulation of the tracks and needed to be completely immersed, which ended up feeling like a very full-circle moment,” he recalls. “That same summer when I first started working with Eric, it was in Mexico City that I got inspired by the whole jungle-cats motif—which is how we came up with the name Black Pumas.” First introduced by a mutual friend back in 2017, after Quesada began seeking a potential collaborator who “liked Neil Young as much as Sam Cooke,” the two musicians quickly felt a near-telepathic musical connection. “We never had to discuss much or plot out what we wanted to do with the project—it all came together so easily and naturally,” says Quesada. “The way Eric creates is so in-the-moment and fits perfectly with how my brain works, and it makes everything immediately come to life in a way that’s so exciting and inspiring.” // One of the most electrifying new acts to emerge in recent years, Black Pumas first brought their unbridled breed of psychedelic soul to their 2019 self-titled debut—a widely acclaimed LP whose deluxe edition landed a Grammy Award nomination for Album of the Year. With seven Grammy nominations now under their belt, the Austin-bred duo have made a major cultural impact with smash singles like “Colors”: a gold-certified anthem that’s amassed over 450 million streams, in addition to hitting No. 1 at AAA Radio and earning Grammy nominations for Record of the Year and Best American Roots Performance. Known for their exhilarating live show (as shown on multiple sold-out tours across North and South America and Europe), singer/songwriter Eric Burton and guitarist/producer Adrian Quesada first discovered their once-in-a-lifetime chemistry back in 2017, after Quesada began searching for a potential collaborator and connected with Burton through a mutual friend. Thanks to the potent collision of their distinct sensibilities—Burton is a self-taught musician who got his start busking in his native Los Angeles, Quesada is a Grammy winner whose background includes playing in Latin-funk orchestra Grupo Fantasma—Black Pumas soon set off on a meteoric rise that’s included performing at the Grammys and at President Biden’s inauguration, making high-profile appearances on shows like “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” and “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, winning Emerging Act of the Year from the Americana Music Association, and selling over a million album equivalents worldwide. Produced by Quesada and co-produced by Burton, their massively anticipated sophomore album Chronicles of a Diamond finds Black Pumas bringing their singular vision to life with more power, passion, and daring originality than ever before.]
Cheery – “Bliss” from: “Bliss” – Single / Spirit House Records / September 20, 2023 [“Bliss” is Cheery’s 5th single, and one of three new singles released by Cheery this summer, from her new home in Liverpool, England, United Kingdom. Cheery released “True Lover” on July 19, 2023. Cheery released “90210 Poster” on August 16, 2023. All three singles come with fabulous new music videos Katlyn has created. Cheery is the “Dream Pop” music project of musician and singer and songwriter Katlyn Cowpland formerly known as Katlyn Conroy, who was formerly based in Lawrence, Kansas. Katlyn met her husband on OkCupid and moved 4000 miles away to get married and relocate in Liverpool, England. When she was still based in Lawrence, Kansas, As Cheery, Katlyn released the single “Concept of Love” and b-side, “Vulture” on August 3, 2021, written and performed by Katlyn Conroy, and engineered and mixed by Eric Davis. Katlyn Conroy released SAPPHIRES funder her previous moniker and band, La Guerre through The Record Machine on January 20, 2015. It was #10 on WMM’s 115 Best Recordings of 2015. Katlyn Conroy was also part of the critically acclaimed band, Cowboy Indian Bear. She was the recipient of the 2013 Pitch Music Award for Best Singer-Songwriter. With over 20 years of live performance experiences she has performed alongside Daniel Johnston, Florence and The Machine, Grizzly Bear, Sara Barielles, Why? and more. Katlyn Conroy joined us on WMM on March 4, 2015 and August 26, 2015. More info at: http://www.cheery.bandcamp.com or https://linktr.ee/HearCheery%5D
Alyssa Murray – “S.D.D.” from: S.D.D – Single / LYSSA RECORDS / August 11, 2023 [The first single from Alyssa Murray’s upcoming album ‘SCROLLIN’ released September 1, 2023. SCROLLIN’ is a sonic kaleidoscope of synth-tastic beats and experimental delight. Alyssa Murray is a keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer who combines a keen songwriting sense with a playful display of sonic influences, Alyssa Murray creates a satisfying juxtaposition of synth and song. The Kansas City based singer/songwriter, keyboardist, and producer takes after some of the very best art-pop mainstays, electronic wizards, and west coast beat makers. // Alyssa has been featured on the Los Angeles based ‘Beat Cinema’ and was noted as one of KC’s 90.9 The Bridge’s favorite of EPs of 2021. She was selected to collaborate with visual-artist Barry Anderson for Charlotte Street and Eddie Moore’s ProDo Lab Series and in 2022 was awarded a CFX Grant from the Creative Arkansas Community Hub and Exchange. // Always feeling a strong pull towards songwriting, Alyssa studied piano, voice, and guitar in her teens deep diving into such influences as Fiona Apple and Stevie Wonder. Further pursuing her passion for jazz and improvisation, Alyssa moved to Kansas City to study jazz-piano at the UMKC Conservatory while immersing herself in the local music scene. Her 2015 debut ‘As of Now’ showcases her ability to combine elements of jazz with the narrative sophistication of contemporary-folk. // In addition to performing, Alyssa is an experienced music educator and teaches 20+ private lessons a week covering subjects ranging from entry-level piano, ukulele, to jazz improvisation. // She also has years of experience as a dance accompanist with the Kansas City Ballet’s community-outreach program Reach Out And Dance and Owen/Cox Dance Group’s in-school program Take the Stage. // Alyssa has a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and has studied under the direction of Bobby Watson and Dan Thomas; as well as classical repertoire with Karen Kushner and Diane Petrella. // More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com]
[Alyssa Murray plays Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14, at recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO.]
[Alyssa Murray plays in the 3-piece band Les Mar Mottes with musicians J. Ashley Miller and Simon Huntley. Les Mar Mottes play Le lounge, 18th & Wyandotte, KCMO, on Thursday, September 28, at 7:00 PM.]
10:15 – Interview with Alyssa Murray
Keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer, Alyssa Murray who just released her new album ‘SCROLLIN’ on September 1, 2023. Alyssa writes that, “Scrollin’ is a sonic kaleidoscope of synth-tastic beats and experimental delight. Made with lots of love in my home studio over the past couple of years. Hope you enjoy!” Written, performed, and produced by Alyssa Murray. Mixed and Mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab Kansas City, MO. More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com
Alyssa Murray plays Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14, at recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO.
Alyssa Murray plays in the 3-piece band Les Mar Mottes with musicians J. Ashley Miller and Simon Huntley. Les Mar Mottes play Le lounge, 18th & Wyandotte, KCMO, on Thursday, September 28, at 7:00 PM.
Alyssa Murray also plays in the trio Easy Match with Claire Adams and Steve Gardels
Alyssa Murray thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
We just heard the first single of the new album ‘SCROLLIN’.
S.D.D. along with all of the songs on the album give the listener and electronic music adventure with synthesizers and programming mixed with Alyssa’s own live piano keyboard playing that represents Alyssa’s work as a Jazz artists, almost as if she is sampling herself.
Always feeling a strong pull towards songwriting, Alyssa studied piano, voice, and guitar in her teens deep diving into such influences as Fiona Apple and Stevie Wonder. Further pursuing her passion for jazz and improvisation, Alyssa moved to Kansas City to study jazz-piano at the UMKC Conservatory while immersing herself in the local music scene.
Alyssa has a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and has studied under the direction of Bobby Watson and Dan Thomas; as well as classical repertoire with Karen Kushner and Diane Petrella.
Her 2015 debut ‘As of Now’ showcases her ability to combine elements of jazz with the narrative sophistication of contemporary-folk.
On May 14, 2021, Alyssa Murray released the EP, HALF & HALF, an indie, electronic album with equal parts vocal tunes & half beats. “Combining a keen songwriting sense with a playful display of sonic influences in a juxtaposition of synth and song.” Written, performed, & produced by Alyssa Murray. Recorded between July 2020 through January 2021 using Korg Minilogue XD and Sequential Prophet Rev2 with Adam Schlozman on bass (track 3) and John Kizilarmut on drums (track 3). Mixed & Mastered by Duane Trower at Weights & Measures Soundlab KC. Info at: http://www.wmsoundlab.com or http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com Alyssa Murray joined us LIVE on WMM on May 19, 2021.
10:23
Alyssa Murray – “sweeet sweet shows over” from: ‘SCROLLIN’ / LYSSA RECORDS / September 1, 2023 [ SCROLLIN’ is a sonic kaleidoscope of synth-tastic beats and experimental delight. Alyssa Murray is a keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer who combines a keen songwriting sense with a playful display of sonic influences, Alyssa Murray creates a satisfying juxtaposition of synth and song. The Kansas City based singer/songwriter, keyboardist, and producer takes after some of the very best art-pop mainstays, electronic wizards, and west coast beat makers. // In addition to performing, Alyssa is an experienced music educator and teaches 20+ private lessons a week covering subjects ranging from entry-level piano, ukulele, to jazz improvisation. // She also has years of experience as a dance accompanist with the Kansas City Ballet’s community-outreach program Reach Out And Dance and Owen/Cox Dance Group’s in-school program Take the Stage. // Alyssa has a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and has studied under the direction of Bobby Watson and Dan Thomas; as well as classical repertoire with Karen Kushner and Diane Petrella. // More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com]
[Alyssa Murray plays Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14, at recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO.]
[Alyssa Murray plays in the 3-piece band Les Mar Mottes with musicians J. Ashley Miller and Simon Huntley. Les Mar Mottes play Le lounge, 18th & Wyandotte, KCMO, on Thursday, September 28, at 7:00 PM.]
10:25 – More Interview with Alyssa Murray
Keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer, Alyssa Murray who just released her new album ‘SCROLLIN’ on September 1, 2023. ‘Scrollin’ was written, performed, and produced by Alyssa Murray. Mixed and Mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab Kansas City, MO. More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com
Alyssa Murray thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
In addition to performing, Alyssa is an experienced music educator and teaches 20+ private lessons a week covering subjects ranging from entry-level piano, ukulele, to jazz improvisation. // She also has years of experience as a dance accompanist with the Kansas City Ballet’s community-outreach program Reach Out And Dance and Owen/Cox Dance Group’s in-school program Take the Stage. /
Alyssa has been featured on the Los Angeles based ‘Beat Cinema’ and was noted as one of KC’s 90.9 The Bridge’s favorite of EPs of 2021. She was selected to collaborate with visual-artist Barry Anderson for Charlotte Street and Eddie Moore’s ProDo Lab Series and in 2022 was awarded a CFX Grant from the Creative Arkansas Community Hub and Exchange.
In addition to performing, Alyssa is an experienced music educator and teaches 20+ private lessons a week covering subjects ranging from entry-level piano, ukulele, to jazz improvisation.
She also has years of experience as a dance accompanist with the Kansas City Ballet’s community-outreach program Reach Out And Dance and Owen/Cox Dance Group’s in-school program Take the Stage.
Last year Alyssa remixed the Claire Adams song/recording “If It Isn’t Right (Alyssa Murray Remix)” that was released April 15, 2022. The track featured Rewound and Alyssa Murray. Our friend Claire Adams recently wrote to us saying, “Alyssa Murray made a super cool remix of one of the songs off the last album and I wanted to share it with you. The song is ‘If It Isn’t Right’ and also features the Rewound string trio and an arrangement by Peter Lawless. Alyssa really made it her own and gave it a whole new spin, she’s amazing!” Here are the full credits: Vocals: Claire Adams, Alyssa Murray, Fritz Hutchison. Synths and Beats: Alyssa Murray. Cello: Ezgi Karakus. Viola: Alyssa Bell. Violin: Carmen Dieker. String Arrangement: Peter Lawless. Mixed and Mastered by Duane Trower at Weights + Measures Soundlab. Cover Art by Cassie Allen. ‘If It Isn’t Right’ written by Claire Adams. This song was originally on Claire’s acclaimed album YOU KNOW I KNOW YOU originally released April 24, 2020. The album was lost in the COVID 19 of 2020. The album was properly given a “release show” and put out on CD in 2021. 10 songs all written by Claire Adams. Recorded at The Blue House in Kansas City, MO. Additional tracking at MARZ Studios in Nederland, TX. Mixed & mastered at Weights + Measures Soundlab in KCMO. Written by Claire Adams, with Claire Adams on guitars, bass, and vocals; Alyssa Murray on keyboards & vocals; and Fritz Hutchison on drums & vocals.
Alyssa Murray thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
Alyssa Murray plays Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14, at recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO.
Alyssa Murray plays in the 3-piece band Les Mar Mottes with musicians J. Ashley Miller and Simon Huntley. Les Mar Mottes play Le lounge, 18th & Wyandotte, KCMO, on Thursday, September 28, at 7:00 PM.
Keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer, Alyssa Murray who just released her new album ‘SCROLLIN’ on September 1, 2023. “Scrollin’ was written, performed, and produced by Alyssa Murray. Mixed and Mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab Kansas City, MO. More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com
10:32
Alyssa Murray – “7/4 Starter Pack” from: ‘SCROLLIN’ / LYSSA RECORDS / September 1, 2023 [SCROLLIN’ is a sonic kaleidoscope of synth-tastic beats and experimental delight. Alyssa Murray is a keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer who combines a keen songwriting sense with a playful display of sonic influences. // More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com]
[Alyssa Murray plays Outer Reaches Fest, Saturday, October 14, at recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO.]
[Alyssa Murray plays in the 3-piece band Les Mar Mottes with musicians J. Ashley Miller and Simon Huntley. Les Mar Mottes play Le lounge, 18th & Wyandotte, KCMO, on Thursday, September 28, at 7:00 PM.]
10:34 – Underwriting
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Terrible at Goodbyes” from: MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD / Modern Day Fitzgerald / September 15, 2023 [This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. From playing a late night show in a small run down club to waking up early to go to back to work. The album deals with the excitement of being in the music scene, falling in and out of love, the stress of wanting to be recognized and heard, and the burnout. The majority of the album was recorded in a studio inside a music venue on Armour Road with producer Alex Garnett. Modern Day Fitzgerald is: Mica-Elgin Vi on guitar & lead vocals, Noah Bartelt on bass & vocals, Sean East on drums. The band wrote all of the songs. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net]
10:40 – Interview with Mica-Elgin Vi & Noah Bartelt
Mica-Elgin Vi is a founding member of the band, Modern Day Fitzgerald who released their new album, MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD, on September 15, 2023. This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. The majority of the album was recorded in a studio inside a music venue on Armour Road with producer Alex Garnett. Modern Day Fitzgerald is: Mica-Elgin Vi on guitar & lead vocals, Noah Bartelt on bass & vocals, Sean East on drums. The band wrote all of the songs. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net
Noah Bartelt plays bass and provides vocals for Modern Day Fitzgerald and also helped write all of the new songs. Noah also plays in the band The UK’s.
Mica-Elgin Vi & Noah Bartelt Thank you for being with us on WMM.
This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. This album captures the Kansas City music scenes bohemian atmosphere. From playing a late night show in a small run down club to waking up early to go to back to work. The album deals with the excitement of being in the music scene, falling in and out of love, dealing with pretentious folks who pretend to have it all, the stress of wanting to be recognized and heard, and the burnout from wanting to do something since they were young. Here are their stories.
Mica-Elgin Vi – Guitar, Lead Vocals, Writer Noah Bartelt – Bass, Vocals, Writer Sean East – Drums, Writer
Mica told Michelle Bacon for the Bridge 90.9 Website: “We all have goals we want to reach with our music,” vocalist and primary songwriter Mica-Elgin Vi said of the album’s concept – ranging from hitting the big time to going on tour, being played on the radio or even just having people come to their shows. “Overall I believe the main goal is to be heard, seen and recognized… It may seem selfish to the naked eye, but in my opinion, we just want to find a way to feel connected.”
“Meet Me On Armour Road” was recorded in a studio behind The Rino in North Kansas City (on Armour Road) – a collaborative effort with bassist Noah Bartelt and drummer Sean East, both of whom share co-writing credits with Vi.
The nine-track effort offers a glimpse of what it’s like to be a gigging musician e just heard “Terrible at Goodbyes” which is actually tha last song on the 9-track album, but references the lass of music venues in Kansas City.
10:47
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Joyride” from: MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD / Modern Day Fitzgerald / September 15, 2023 [This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. From playing a late night show in a small run down club to waking up early to go to back to work. The album deals with the excitement of being in the music scene, falling in and out of love, the stress of wanting to be recognized and heard, and the burnout. The majority of the album was recorded in a studio inside a music venue on Armour Road with producer Alex Garnett. Modern Day Fitzgerald is: Mica-Elgin Vi on guitar & lead vocals, Noah Bartelt on bass & vocals, Sean East on drums. The band wrote all of the songs. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net]
10:49 – More Interview with Mica-Elgin Vi & Noah Bartelt
Mica-Elgin Vi who is a founding member of the band, Modern Day Fitzgerald who released their new album, MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD, on September 15, 2023. This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. The majority of the album was recorded in a studio inside a music venue on Armour Road with producer Alex Garnett. Modern Day Fitzgerald is: Mica-Elgin Vi on guitar & lead vocals, Noah Bartelt on bass & vocals, Sean East on drums. The band wrote all of the songs. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net
Noah Bartelt plays bass and provides vocals for Modern Day Fitzgerald and also helped write all of the new songs. Noah also plays in the band The UK’s.
Mica-Elgin Vi & Noah Bartelt Thank you for being with us on WMM.
This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. This album captures the Kansas City music scenes bohemian atmosphere. From playing a late night show in a small run down club to waking up early to go to back to work. The album deals with the excitement of being in the music scene, falling in and out of love, dealing with pretentious folks who pretend to have it all, the stress of wanting to be recognized and heard, and the burnout from wanting to do something since they were young. Here are their stories.
Mica-Elgin Vi – Guitar, Lead Vocals, Writer Noah Bartelt – Bass, Vocals, Writer Sean East – Drums, Writer
Mica-Elgin Vi is a founding member of the band, Modern Day Fitzgerald. Between 2016 and 2023 the band has released two 5-track EPs, and 5 singles. Modern Day Fitzgerald is a high energy pop rock group that just recently finished recording their new album, MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD, coming out this summer.
Mica-Elgin Vi is a proud first generation Filipino American, and is glad to be one of the fully led AAPI rock bands here in Kansas City. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net
Mica-Elgin Vi has a lot of different interests in his life; music, film, photography and fashion. He wanted to make something that can incorporate all of those in one.
He created Modern Day Fitzgerald. According to Mica-Elgin Vi, Modern Day Fitzgerald is more than a band, but a lifestyle representing his own personal renaissance.
On the music side of the spectrum, Modern Day Fitzgerald is a rock band with proper etiquette. With their new album coming out, The Nostalgic Generation, it’s a story about his own infatuation of the past and his personal struggle to move forward.
Combining genres from pop songs from the 60’s with a sophisticated modern approach to british rock with true lyrical content from Vi, you cannot deny the catchiness and realism of their songs.
On the other side of the spectrum, he deliberately uses music videos to help paint a picture of his songs. He also uses other online content to document his journey of being a musician; vlogs, podcasts, interviews with different creators and more. The main goal is not only share his own story but also build value onto others to create positivity in todays’ culture.
Modern Day Fitzgerald has opened up for: The Romantics, Castlecomer, The Ghost Wolves, Leopold & His Fiction
Modern Day Fitzgerald has performed at The Midcoast Takeover Showcase during South By Southwest, The Sunset Music Fest, Swift Mile Fest & more
“Having a knack for poetic focused fun rock numbers, Modern Day Fitzgerald didn’t fall short…” – Playlist Play
Modern Day Fitzgerald – Discography
Modern Day Fitzgerald – MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD, (9-track Album) – Sept. 15, 2023 Modern Day Fitzgerald – “City Burning” (Single) – May 26, 2023 Modern Day Fitzgerald – LIVE AT RINO – (5-track Live EP) – November 20, 2020 Modern Day Fitzgerald – THE NOSTALGIC GENERATION (5-track EP) – Nov. 8, 2019 Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Cherry Blossoms” (Single) – July 19, 2019 Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Where Did You Go” (Single) – February 23, 2018 Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Forsaken Echo” (Singer) – May 12, 2017 Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Gorgeous Killing” (Single) – February 26, 2016
Mica-Elgin Vi & Noah Bartelt Thank you for being with us on WMM.
Modern Day Fitzgerald just released their new album, MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD, on Sept. 15, 2023. This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in NKC.
Modern Day Fitzgerald – “Morning Light” from: MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD / Modern Day Fitzgerald / September 15, 2023 [This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. From playing a late night show in a small run down club to waking up early to go to back to work. The album deals with the excitement of being in the music scene, falling in and out of love, the stress of wanting to be recognized and heard, and the burnout. The majority of the album was recorded in a studio inside a music venue on Armour Road with producer Alex Garnett. Modern Day Fitzgerald is: Mica-Elgin Vi on guitar & lead vocals, Noah Bartelt on bass & vocals, Sean East on drums. The band wrote all of the songs. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net]
11:00 – Station ID
Supermoto – “Figure 8’s” from: “Figure 8’s” – Single / Kind of Red Records / May 6, 2021 [Supermoto is an indie-rock / pop project fronted by Chicago-based musician, Garrison Krotz. Prior to launching Supermoto, Garrison fronted “The Free Press” and played bass in the Midwest power pop group, “Jean Claude & the Eclairs.”Supermoto’s debut single “Rachel Green” was launched February 2021 and precedes the bands upcoming release of their debut 5-song EP, “Holy Moly.” The song and music video are equally quirky and energetic, featuring crunchy guitars, funky synth-bass and ear-worm melodies. Supermoto released the single “Rachel Greem” on April 15, 2021 with Shayne Hayes on drums. Mixing & Mastering: Ryan Pollock. Supermoto released the single, “Topo Chico” on September 22, 2021. Check out the video as part of our First Fridays new music roundup on RockInChicago.org https://bit.ly/3rNmB3E.%5D
[Supermoto plays Manor Records Grand Opening on Friday, October 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM at 1501 West 12th Street, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. Manor Records will be open and selling records at their normal time of 11:00 AM and then staying open LATE for a celebration event featuring live music starting at 6:00 PM from: True Lions, Supermoto, and Khrystal.]
11:03 – Interview with Shaun Crowley
Shaun Crowley of Manor Records joins us to shares details on how Manor Records has found a new home for their non-profit record store in the West Bottoms, in the basement of the 12th Street Post Building on 12th & Liberty. This building also houses many other makers and businesses including West Bottoms Plant Company and Cafe Ca Phe! Manor Records will be having a Grand Opening on Friday, October 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM at 1501 West 12th Street, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. Manor Records will be open and selling records at their normal time of 11:00 AM and then staying open LATE for a celebration event featuring live music starting at 6:00 PM from: True Lions, Supermoto, and Khrystal. More information at: manorrecords.com
Shaun Crowley Thank you for being with us on WMM.
Manor Records has found a new home for their non-profit record store in the West Bottoms, in the basement of the 12th Street Post Building on 12th & Liberty.
This building also houses many other makers and businesses including West Bottoms Plant Company and Cafe Ca Phe!
Manor Records will be having a Grand Opening on Friday, October 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM at 1501 West 12th Street, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS.
Manor Records will be open and selling records at their normal time of 11:00 AM and then staying open LATE for a celebration event featuring live music starting at 6:00 PM from: True Lions, Supermoto, and Khrystal. More information at: manorrecords.com
Shaun Crowley was last with us on May 10, 2023 to talk about to talk about Manor Fest 5, a fundraising local music festival that consists of two weekends, Lawrence on May 19-20, and Kansas City on May 25-28, 2023, featuring 54 bands, across 17 stages, over 6 days. All profits from this fundraiser event to help Manor with their non-profit mission of releasing local artists’ music on physical platforms through our “Manor Records Fund”. More information at; http://www.manorrecrds.com
In this past several years, Manor Records, has become a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization.
Manor Record Board Shaun Crowley – President Skylar Rochelle – Vice President Kayla Jarrett – Secretary Connor Randell – Board Member
Manor Records all started in a basement of “The Shawnee Manor,” a DIY venue located in Shawnee, KS. From Glass Animals to Shy Boys, the underground venue hosted numerous local acts, and some national touring acts. Founder Shaun Crowley created the first Manor Fest with 10 bands in one night, then grew to a two night event featuring 20 local bands. After years passed and a community was built, it was time for the boys to move out of the deteriorating house.
In October of 2017, Shaun and company officially launched Manor Records. A DIY record label based on the foundation of their infamous Shawnee Manor. Manor Records is a label that takes no profits from their artists, is hands-on, and self-run, with intentions of good music from good people. They began by hosting showcases featuring local and regional bands in addition to putting out cassette releases.
In the summer of 2019, after growing as a label for two years, Manor Records decided to bring back the idea of Manor Fest. Manor Fest 3 came to Kansas City with 33 bands spread across three nights in different regions of the city. We hosted showcases in traditional & non-traditional venues and featured up & coming locals such as bigfatcat and regional favorites such as Paul Cherry. After successfully putting on our first large sized festival, we realized that it was an event that helped promote and propel local artists to larger platforms. There was a need to bring it as a regular event for the Kansas City music scene to look forward to every summer. Shaun was on WMM on July 31, 2019.
Alongside the festival, Manor Records has been actively providing booking, tour management, cassette releases, blog premieres/reviews, marketing and promotion services for indie acts all over the Mid-west area.
Shaun Crowley thanks for being with us on WMM
Manor Records will be having a Grand Opening on Friday, October 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM at 1501 West 12th Street, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. Manor Records will be open and selling records at their normal time of 11:00 AM and then staying open LATE for a celebration event featuring live music starting at 6:00 PM from: True Lions, Supermoto, and Khrystal. More information at: manorrecords.com
11:17
Khrystal. – “Eat First” from: Life Be Life’ing / Khrystal. / September 22, 2021 [Surprise 8-track album release. On December 31, 2020 Khrystal. Released the single “Never” which followed Khrystal.’s. single “Magic” released on August 8, 2020 on limited edition cassette singles with her most recent single “You Again” as a B-Side by Manor Records. On September 1, 2017 Khrystal. released The Glow Up EP, Produced & Written by Khrystal Coppage and Duncan Burnett. This was follow up to Khrystal’s Debut EP, Quarter Century Living. Executive Produced By Duncan Burnett. Written By Khrystal Coppage & Duncan Burnett. Kansas City based Khrystal Coppage served as Editor-in-Chief of Khorage Magazine. She served as Production Manager at UMKC University News from 2015 to 2016. She graduated from UMKC in 2016 where she studied Family Studies. She graduated from Kansas City Kansas Community College in 2013. She is a graduate of Sumner Academy of Arts & Science, in KCK. ]
[Khrystal. plays Manor Records Grand Opening on Friday, October 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM at 1501 West 12th Street, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. Manor Records will be open and selling records at their normal time of 11:00 AM and then staying open LATE for a celebration event featuring live music starting at 6:00 PM from: True Lions, and Supermoto.]
Yussef Dayes – “Pon di Plaza (Feat. Chronixx)” from: Black Classical Music / Nonesuch Records / September 8, 2023 [Multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer Yussef Dayes releases his debut solo album, Black Classical Music, via Brownswood Recordings, Warner Music, and Cashmere Thoughts Recordings and in the US on Nonesuch Records. A visualizer for the album track “Pon Di Plaza,” featuring vocal and instrumental contributions from esteemed Jamaican singer Chronixx, was released yesterday and may be seen here. Dayes will bring music from the new album to the UK in October, including a show at London’s Royal Albert Hall on October 12, before heading out on a tour of the United States in November and December. // My debut album and an art piece that has been in the works since the beginning,” says Dayes of Black Classical Music. “Feelings of love, healing, grief, inspiration, more life, unity, groove, spirit and travels. This album is the embodiment of my life to this point. For everyone that has supported my art or is discovering my music now, I am grateful to be able to share this with you. Thank you to my team and all of the collaborators for helping me bring this vision to life. Sharing vibes and sounds from the UK, rooted in the gumbo pot of the Caribbean, South American culture & African rituals. Black Classical Music is an exploration of my own personal journey & musical style.” // Black Classical Music is Yussef Dayes’ nineteen-track debut solo studio album. His drum licks and Rocco Palladino’s bass are the sturdy anchors, aided by Charlie Stacey (keys/synths), Venna (saxophone), Alexander Bourt (percussion), and a host of features including: Masego, Jamilah Barry, Tom Misch, Elijah Fox, Shabaka Hutchings, Miles James, Sheila Maurice Grey, Nathaniel Cross, Theon Cross, and the Chineke! Orchestra—the first professional orchestra in Europe to be made up of majority Black and ethnically diverse musicians. // Dayes’ career is expansive and wide reaching; his rise can be first linked to the Afrocentric quartet, United Vibrations, alongside his two brothers, Ahmad and Kareem, and saxophonist, Wayne Francis. This was followed by the highly successful but short-lived duo Yussef Kamaal, with keyboardist Kamaal Williams. More recently, Dayes released Live at Joshua Tree, an EP presented by Soulection, and other solo releases including the live album Welcome to the Hills and Love Is the Message, which was recorded live at Abbey Road Studios. // His extensive list of collaborators includes the finest talents across both music and fashion—from 2020’s Top 5-charting collaboration with Tom Misch What Kinda Music (Blue Note) to an official remix of Pa Salieu’s “Frontline” on Wizkid’s “Made in Lagos” album to production for R&B royalty in Kali Uchis and Kehlani. Dayes had a special artistic relationship with the late Louis Vuitton innovator, Virgil Abloh, who hand-picked him to soundtrack and curate a LV dinner show for Paris Men’s Fashion Week and invited him to perform at the Louis Vuitton Museum in Paris, among many other collaborations. More recently, Dayes has lent his musical prowess to albums from the likes of Sampha and Noname, further solidifying his position as a respected and sought-after collaborator. ]
Gemini Parks – “Hypocrisy” from: Mom, Why is everyones a Hoe? / Topshelf Records / September 8, 2023 [Josh Berwanger’s (the Anniversary, The Only Children) genre blending funk punk project Gemini Parks is on a mission to make you dance. Recorded with Oklahoma producer Jarod Evans (Broncho, Flaming Lips) in 2021 at Blackwatch Studios, Berwanger later added Mitch Hewlit on drums and J-Swamp on bass. GP plans to release their first single in July, monthly single drops to follow.]
[Gemini Parks Plays an Album Release Show at The Ship 1221 Union Ave, KCMO West Bottoms on Friday, September 22, at 9:30 PM, for their first album “Mom, Why is everyones a Hoe?” the evening will also feature: Creepy Jingles and Heat Seger.]
11:29 – Underwriting
The Frightened Stag – “Acteaon” from: Songs From The Exultant Stag / Jeffery Stolz / September 19, 2023 [All songs written by J. Stolz and performed by The Frightened Stag: Jeff Stolz, Paul Schmidt, Sam Goodell, and Ryan Johnson, With special vocal guests Heidi Gluck on songs 2, 3, and 4 and Suzannah Johannes on song 4, Except The Italian Disco written by J. Stolz/ W. Cochran And performed by Drakkar Sauna with Hazel. Cover art by Brian Hawkins. All songs (except 4 and 6) engineered by Chad Bryan at the High Chaparral. All songs mixed by Scott Gribble. All songs mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering, 2023]
[THE EXULTANT STAG on Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:00 PM, Saturday Sept. 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 PM, at Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS.]
11:35 – Interview with Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran
Since 2003 Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran, have released 6 albums, 2 EPs, and multiple singles, including their 2010 release on Third Man Records all under the moniker of their musical project Drakkar Sauna. Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran join us today to share details about a new musical project from The Frightened Stag and the upcoming theatrical production, THE EXULTANT STAG on Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:00 PM, Saturday Sept. 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 PM, at Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS. THE EXULTANT STAG is an off-beat musical comedy aiming to de-stigmatize mental health struggles and celebrate the bravery of seeking professional support and guidance. Written by Jeff Stolz, this original play takes us through the world of Roman mythology combined with live dance and brand-new indie rock music by Stolz’s band, The Frightened Stag with a line-up of all-star back-up vocalists: Heidi Gluck, Hannah Novaria, & Raven Naramore. THE EXULTANT STAG doubles as a vinyl release show of the soundtrack featuring all the songs from the play by The Stag, including a new single by Stolz’s long-term collaboration with Wallace Cochran, and Drakkar Sauna. More info at: http://www.lawrenceartscenter.org
Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran thanks for being with us on WMM.
We just heard the song “Actaeon” from the upcoming play The Exultant Stag.
Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran are in the band Drakkar Sauna and formerly of The Hips. Wallace Cochran came back to Lawrence from North Carolina to be the character of Sonny in the show..
Jeffrey Stolz is currently playing drums for Heidi Lynne Gluck‘s band, in is also in another band with her called 95 Sweetbird, where he sings with her and plays keyboards.
Jeff has been working hard on a project called The Frightened Stag, with a digital EP released on bandcamp on Friday July 14, 2023. A full length album soundtrack “The Exultant Stag” as released on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. A vinyl album release of “The Exultant Stag” will be available at performances of “The Exultant Stag” at Lawrence Arts Center, Friday September 22 through Sunday, September 24. More info: http://www.LawrenceArtsCenter.com
The song Actaeon is from the upcoming play The Exultant Stag.
11:42
Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran – “You May Live” (LIVE) Originally from: Drakkar Sauna’s Very Much Cologne / Horse Emptiness / January 1, 2017 [10 track album from Drakkar Sauna, Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran’s acclaimed band.]
[THE EXULTANT STAG on Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:00 PM, Saturday Sept. 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 PM, at Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS.]
11:45 – More Interview with Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran
Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran, join us to share details about a new musical project The Frightened Stag and the upcoming theatrical production, THE EXULTANT STAG on Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:00 PM, Saturday Sept. 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 PM, at Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS. THE EXULTANT STAG is an off-beat musical comedy aiming to de-stigmatize mental health struggles and celebrate the bravery of seeking professional support and guidance. Written by Jeff Stolz, this original play takes us through the world of Roman mythology combined with live dance and brand-new indie rock music by Stolz’s band, The Frightened Stag with a line-up of all-star back-up vocalists: Heidi Gluck, Hannah Novaria, & Raven Naramore. THE EXULTANT STAG doubles as a vinyl release show of the soundtrack featuring all the songs from the play by The Stag, including a new single by Stolz’s long-term collaboration with Wallace Cochran, and Drakkar Sauna. More infoat: http://www.lawrenceartscenter.org
Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran thanks for being with us on WMM.
Jeffrey Stolz writes: During the dark days of Covid, when nobody could go out and see each other, I often sat alone wondering what people might be yearning for when the ability to expose whole faces and make human connection returned, if it ever returned at all. Exciting live community entertainment, of course! Acting! Dancing! Singing! Mythology! And music-making!
So what else was there to do but hunker down and begin writing a musical about a man named Sonny who’s afraid of bathtubs? He’s got a bad recurring nightmare too. But with the assistance of his therapist, he manages to learn how to craft his dream about his mother into events that he hopes will be less distressing, the Roman myth of Prince Actaeon’s encounter with the goddess Diana at the forest spring. I’m not sure if you’re familiar with that tale, but it doesn’t end well for the prince, and there’s of course a villain in Sonny’s dream intent on making certain of that.
The play is called The Exultant Stag, at The Lawrence Arts Center, September 22-24 2023! There will be four shows. The play will also be an album release featuring seven new songs by my current band, The Frightened Stag, who will be performing live during the play, and a new song by Drakkar Sauna!.
Wallace Cochran is playing the character of Sonny.
Brian Hawkins has created the original artwork for the album cover and poster.
The members of the Frightened Stag have literally not made a single cent since playing in this band for over two years, because all the gig money has gone to this recording and vinyl production.
The album Songs from The Exultant Stag, (the album) will be released on the weekend of the performances.
Drakkar Sauna Discography
Hunger Overcame Us – EP (5 tracks) / September 19, 2003 Rover – Album (12 Tracks) / Marriage Records / 2004/2006 Drakkansasauna – Album (14 Tracks) / Horse Emptiness / March 3, 2005 Pirate Treasure – EP (3 tracks) / Marriage Records / August 1, 2006 Pirate Treasure – 7″ Vinyl (3 tracks) / Marriage Records / August 1, 2006 Jabraham Lincoln – Album (12 Tracks) / Marriage Records / June 30, 2006 Wars and Tornadoes – an Album of 9 Louvin Brothers covers / Marriage Records / 2008 20009 – Album (14 Tracks) / Marriage Records / September 9, 2009 “Leave That Hole Alone” w/ “Brundlefly My Chariot” – Single / Third Man Records / October 19, 2010 Very Much Cologne – Album (10 Tracks) / Replay Records / January 1, 2017 “Italian Disco” – Single / Horse Emptiness / September 10, 2023
The Frightened Stag – Songs From The Exultant Stag – Soundtrack Album / September 19, 2023
from wikipedia: Drakkar Sauna was a Lawrence, Kansas-based musical duo active from 2003 to 2015. Their members were Jeff Stolz and Wallace Cochran. Their music incorporated elements of country, bluegrass, and folk. // Drakkar Sauna formed when Stolz and Cochran worked together on the soundtrack to Blood Feud, a B-movie that Cochran directed. They subsequently began collaborating on additional music after completing the soundtrack.[3] They released their debut album, Rover, in 2004. Its music reflected such disparate influences as Mandy Patankin and the musical Guys and Dolls. It was followed by 2005’s Drakkansasauna and 2006’s Jabraham Lincoln In 2008, they released War and Tornadoes, an album of nine Louvin Brothers covers. Stolz and Cochran have identified the Louvin Brothers’ music as a major influence on their own vocal styles. In 2009, the band released 20009, a space travel-themed album that originated in The Moon For Its Citizens, a book that Cochran had previously written. They broke up in 2015, because Cochran was moving to Maui, Hawaii. Their final performance took place on August 7, 2015. In 2017, the band briefly reunited to release the album Very Much Cologne. // Critics who reviewed Drakkar Sauna’s music consistently noted the duo’s unusual style and subject matter. For instance, Paste described their songs as “…very idiosyncratic and complicated”, and Jason Harper wrote that the duo “…have perfected a merry strangeness while singing rattly, circus-wagon folk songs about bears, spears, wolf tits and obscure historical figures such as would-have-been president-napper John Surratt”. Nikki Miller-Rose described their style as “kinda country folk bluegrass and also old-timey” and as “uniquely quirky”. She also referred to the duo as “They Might Be Giants meets Alison Krauss”. Joshua Klein of Pitchfork wrote that Drakkar Sauna “…embrace the rich traditions of American folk, bluegrass, and country, yet do it as outsiders, sticking to the backroads and playing up the Old Weird America eccentricities with a subversive wink.”
Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran thanks for being with us on WMM
THE EXULTANT STAG on Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:00 PM, Saturday Sept. 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 PM, at Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS. THE EXULTANT STAG doubles as a vinyl release show of the soundtrack featuring all the songs from the play by The Stag. More info at: http://www.lawrenceartscenter.org
11:53
Drakkar Sauna – “Italian Disco” from: “Italian Disco” – Single / Horse Emptiness / September 10, 2023 [New Single from Drakkar Sauna (Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran).and also a song in THE EXULTANT STAG.]
[THE EXULTANT STAG on Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:00 PM, Saturday Sept. 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 PM, at Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS.]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
Next week on September 27 we welcome special guest: Spencer Brown aka Daisy Bücket who joins us to share details about his new album, “Welcome to Springfield.” Also joining us is Kansas City based rock & roller, IVORY BLUE.
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
Thank you to our incredible KKFI Staff: Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers.
This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. It is a collective spirit of hundreds of people, setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the goal of keeping our airwaves, non-commercial, and open! Thank you to programmers & volunteers who made extra effort to keep our station alive
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
WMM presents: Alyssa Murray + Modern Day Fitzgerald + Shaun Crowley & Manor Records + Jeffrey Stolz & The Exultant Stag
Mark will spin tracks from: Alyssa Murray, Modern Day Fitzgerald, The Frightened Stag with Heidi Lynne Gluck, Cheery, Gemini Parks, Supermoto, Khrystal., Yussef Dayes, and Black Pumas.
At 10:15 we welcome keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and producer, Alyssa Murray who just released her new album ‘SCROLLIN’ on September 1, 2023. Alyssa writes that, “Scrollin’ is a sonic kaleidoscope of synth-tastic beats and experimental delight. Made with lots of love in my home studio over the past couple of years. Hope you enjoy!” Written, performed, and produced by Alyssa Murray. Mixed and Mastered by Duane Trower at Weights and Measures Soundlab Kansas City, MO. More info at: http://www.alyssamurraymusic.com
At 10:35 Mark talks with Mica-Elgin Vi who is a founding member of the band, Modern Day Fitzgerald who released their new album, MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD, on September 13, 2023. This is a concept/rock opera that takes place on Armour Road in North Kansas City, Missouri. This is a love and hate letter to the music scene. From playing a late night show in a small run down club to waking up early to go to back to work. The album deals with the excitement of being in the music scene, falling in and out of love, the stress of wanting to be recognized and heard, and the burnout. The majority of the album was recorded in a studio inside a music venue on Armour Road with producer Alex Garnett. Modern Day Fitzgerald is: Mica-Elgin Vi on guitar & lead vocals, Noah Bartelt on bass & vocals, Sean East on drums. The band wrote all of the songs. More information at: http://www.Moderndayfitzgerald.net
At 11:00, Shaun Crowley of Manor Records shares details on how Manor Records has found a new home for their non-profit record store in the West Bottoms, in the basement of the 12th Street Post Building on 12th & Liberty. This building also houses many other makers and businesses including West Bottoms Plant Company and Cafe Ca Phe! Manor Records will be having a Grand Opening on Friday, October 6, 2023 at 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM at 1501 West 12th Street, KCMO WEST BOTTOMS. Manor Records will be open and selling records at their normal time of 11:00 AM and then staying open LATE for a celebration event featuring live music starting at 6:00 PM from: True Lions, Supermoto, and Khrystal. More information at: manorrecords.com Please consider donating to Manor Records GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/a6689af8
At 11:30, Jeffrey Stolz & Wallace Cochran, share details about their new musical project The Frightened Stag and their upcoming theatrical production, THE EXULTANT STAGon Friday, Sept. 22 at 7:00 PM, Saturday Sept. 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and Sunday, Sept. 24 at 7:00 PM, at Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire St., Lawrence, KS. THE EXULTANT STAG is an off-beat musical comedy aiming to de-stigmatize mental health struggles and celebrate the bravery of seeking professional support and guidance. Written by Jeff Stolz, this original play takes us through the world of Roman mythology combined with live dance and brand-new indie rock music by Stolz’s band, The Frightened Stag with a line-up of all-star back-up vocalists: Heidi Gluck, Hannah Novaria, & Raven Naramore. THE EXULTANT STAG doubles as a vinyl release show of the soundtrack featuring all the songs from the play by The Stag, including a new single by Stolz’s long-term collaboration with Wallace Cochran, and Drakkar Sauna. More information at: http://www.lawrenceartscenter.org
On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
Spinning Records With Marion Merritt + Betty Berry & KC Blues Society
Today, we welcome back to the show, Marion Merritt as our special “Guest Producer.” Marion Merritt is our most frequent contributor to WMM. For over 19 years now Marion has been sharing her sonic discoveries and information from her musically encyclopedic brain. Bringing music that is just not played on other radio stations. Marion grew up in Los Angeles & St. Louis. She went to college in Columbia, Missouri. She studied art and musical engineering. After nearly two decades of managing Kansas City’s largest music department store, Marion left the corporate world and went Independent. With her partner Ann Stewart, Marion is the proprietor of Records With Merritt, a small, independent, minority owned business, at 1614 Westport Rd. in Kansas City, Missouri.
“Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks” from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979 [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]
Dimitri From Paris – “Prologue” from: Sacrebleu / Yellow Productions – Atlantic / June 11, 1996 [Debut studio albumm from Dimitri from Paris was born Dimitrios Yerasimos, on October 27, 1963. He is a French music producer and DJ of Greek descent. His musical influences are rooted in 1970s funk and disco sounds that spawned contemporary house music, as well as original soundtracks from 1950s and 1960s movies such as Breakfast at Tiffany’s, La Dolce Vita and The Party, which were sampled in his album Sacrebleu. Dimitri fused these sounds with electro and block party hip hop he discovered in the 1980s. // Contrary to his musical pseudonym, Dimitri was born not in Paris but born in Peckham, South London, to Rûm parents (Greeks of Turkey), Dimitri grew up in France where he discovered DJing at home, using whatever he could find to “cut and paste” samples from disco hits or in to montages heard on the radio, blending them together to make tapes. This early experimentation helped him launch his DJ career. // He started out by DJing at the French station Radio 7, before moving on to Skyrock and finally to Radio NRJ, Europe’s largest FM radio network, in 1986. There, he introduced the first ever house music show to be broadcast in France, while simultaneously producing under the direction of sound designer Michel Gaubert, runway soundtracks for fashion houses such as Chanel, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Hermès and Yves Saint-Laurent. He also released two solo EPs from 1993 to 1994 and contributed to the Yellow Productions compilation La Yellow 357. // In 1996, Dimitri gained worldwide recognition with the release of his first full album, Sacrebleu, released on Yellow Productions. A blend of diverse influences including jazz, original film soundtracks, samba, and organic house, Sacrebleu sold 300,000 copies worldwide and was named Album of the Year by UK’s Mixmag magazine. // In 2000, Dimitri followed Sacrebleu up with A Night at the Playboy Mansion (Virgin) and Disco Forever (BBE), followed by My Salsoul in 2001, After the Playboy Mansion in 2002. In 2003, Cruising Attitude was released, to be closely followed by his first outing on UK’s premier dance music label Defected: Dimitri from Paris In the House. // He has followed a somewhat glamorous musical path by recording soundtracks and advertising campaigns for fashion houses Chanel, Jean-Paul Gautier and Yves Saint Laurent and remixing hundreds of artists as diverse as Björk, The Cardigans, James Brown, Michael Jackson, New Order and Quincy Jones. He also did the music for the anime Tsukuyomi: Moon Phase and mixed the soundtrack for the French luxury dessin animé Jet Groove produced by Method Films. // 2005 saw Dimitri go back to his Funk and Disco roots, with Japanese hip hop producer and über collector DJ Muro for Super Disco Friends a double CD mixdown. In 2006 he offered his House of Love outing to Valentine’s Day’s lovers. Later on Dimitri produced Los Amigos Invisibles “Super Pop Venezuela” album which grabbed a nomination for a Grammy Award. // 2007 saw the release of the Cocktail Disco project with longtime partner BBE, a handful of disco classics remixes and other surprises down the line. // 2009 saw the release of the Night Dubbin’, a post-disco R&B compilation remix album.]
Platinum 900 – “Koi No Rescue Tai” [Vinyl] from: Platinum Airways Flight 900 / Great Tracks / July 27, 2023 [Originally released in 1997. Electronic, Jazz, Funk / Soul, Pop band from Japan. Platinum 900 are: Naoko Sakata on vocals, Kazuhiko nishimura on guitar & bass, and Hiroshi Iihoshi on keyboards & programming. Produced by Tatsuya Tsukada. Arranged by Platinum 900, & Satoshi Nakamura]
Platinum 900 – “Never Stop” [Vinyl] from: Platinum Airways Flight 900 / Great Tracks / July 27 2023 [Originally released in 1997. Electronic, Jazz, Funk / Soul, Pop band from Japan. Platinum 900 are: Naoko Sakata on vocals, Kazuhiko nishimura on guitar & bass, and Hiroshi Iihoshi on keyboards & programming. Produced by Tatsuya Tsukada. Arranged by Platinum 900, & Satoshi Nakamura]
Bebel Gilberto – “Adeus América” from: João / Pias America / August 25, 2023 [Isabel Buarque de Hollanda Gilberto de Oliveira (born May 12, 1966), known as Bebel Gilberto, is an American-born Brazilian popular singer often associated with bossa nova. She is the daughter of João Gilberto and singer Miúcha. Her uncle is singer/composer Chico Buarque. // Gilberto was born in New York City to Brazilian parents, bossa nova pioneer João Gilberto and singer Miúcha, who were briefly living in the city at the time of her birth. She often traveled with her father when he recorded albums in different countries; she lived in Mexico at age three and moved to Rio de Janeiro at age five. Gilberto’s parents separated when she was seven, and she spent her time between Rio de Janeiro with her mother and New York with her father. Gilberto has been performing since her youth in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. // Gilberto recalls that her childhood was “music nonstop”; when reflecting on her father’s influence, Gilberto states, “He taught me to be a perfectionist. But my mother taught me how to lose it. And you can hear it in my music today, I think.” She grew acquainted with popular artists such as Caetano Veloso, David Byrne, and Stan Getz, who often visited her father’s home to collaborate. She began singing with her mother at a young age and participated in professional musicals such as Saltimbancos and Pirlimpimpim. At the age of seven, she made her recording debut on her mother’s first solo album, Miúcha & Antônio Carlos Jobim (1977). Two years later, she performed at Carnegie Hall with her mother and Stan Getz. // Gilberto was a great friend of Cazuza and composed several songs with him in addition to “Eu preciso dizer que te amo”, including “Amigos de Bar”, “Mais Feliz”, and “Mulher sem Razão”. // Gilberto next participated in the project Red Hot + Rio, joining major music stars such as Everything but the Girl, Maxwell, George Michael, and others for the benefit CD recording. She also collaborated on Towa Tei’s CD Future Listening!, singing on the hits “Technova” and “Batucada,” and also participated in Peeping Tom with Mike Patton (lead singer of Faith No More), singing “Caipirinha”. // Tanto Tempo, an electronic bossa nova album released in 2000, was popular at clubs around the world and positioned Gilberto as one of the best-selling Brazilian artists in the U.S. since the 1960s. With her second album, Bebel Gilberto (2004), she refined her sound to create an acoustic lounge style that showcased her strengths as a Brazilian composer. // With Momento (2007), her third album in seven years, she wanted to do a fusion of both. Mixing the taste of Rio’s Orquestra Imperial with the melting pot of New York’s Brazilian Girls, and following the direction of the English producer Guy Sigsworth (Madonna’s partner in “What It Feels Like for a Girl”), Momento reaffirmed the international character of Gilberto’s music. In 2007, she was a judge for the 6th annual Independent Music Awards to support independent artists’ careers. // Gilberto recorded her fourth studio album, All in One, in New York, Jamaica, and the Brazilian state of Bahia. It was released worldwide on September 29, 2009, on the American jazz label Verve, and was released in Brazil by Universal Music. It is the least electronic-infused of her albums, and brings to the forefront more of Gilberto’s personality and love for organic styles. All in One had a team of accomplished producers including Mark Ronson (Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen), John King (Dust Brothers, Beck), Daniel Jobim, Carlinhos Brown, Didi Gutman (Brazilian Girls) and Mario Caldato Jr (Beastie Boys, Björk, Jack Johnson). Gilberto also provided the voice of the bird Eva in the animated film Rio (2011), an experience she called “amazing”. // Since the launch of Tanto Tempo in 2000, she has sold over 2.5 million records and has been featured on seven film soundtracks including Next Stop Wonderland, The Bubble, Closer and most recently 2010s Eat Pray Love and 2011’s Rio; and seven TV series including Sex and the City, Six Feet Under, and Nip/Tuck. // In 2011, she contributed a track entitled “Acabou Chorare” to the Red Hot Organization’s most recent charitable album, Red Hot+Rio 2. The album is a follow-up to the 1996 Red Hot+Rio. Proceeds from the sales will be donated to raise awareness and money to fight AIDS/HIV and related health and social issues. In 2015, her song “Tudo” was nominated for the 16th Latin Grammy Awards in the Best Brazilian Song category.]
Jorge Ben – “Zagueiro” from: Solta O Pavão / 2023 Survival Research / 2023 [Orig. Phillips Records / 1975] [Jorge Duílio Lima Menezes (born March 22, 1939) is a Brazilian popular musician, performing under the stage name Jorge Ben Jor since the 1980s, though commonly known by his former stage name Jorge Ben. His characteristic style fuses samba, funk, rock and bossa nova with lyrics that blend humor and satire with often esoteric subject matter. His hits include “Chove Chuva”, “Mas, que Nada!”, “Ive Brussel” and “Balança Pema”, and have been interpreted by artists such as Caetano Veloso, Sérgio Mendes, Miriam Makeba, Soulfly and Marisa Monte. / Ben’s broad-minded and original approach to samba led him through participation in some of Brazilian popular music’s most important musical movements, such as bossa nova, Jovem Guarda, and Tropicália, with the latter period defined by his albums Jorge Ben (1969) and Fôrça Bruta (1970). He has been called “the father of samba rock”, by Billboard magazine. According to American music critic Robert Christgau, Ben and his contemporary Gilberto Gil were “always ready to go further out on a beat than the other samba/bossa geniuses”. // Born Jorge Duílio Lima Menezes in Rio de Janeiro, he first took the stage name Jorge Ben after his mother’s name (Sílvia Saint Ben Lima, Brazilian-born of Ethiopian origin) but in the 1980s changed it to Jorge Ben Jor (commonly written Benjor). // Jorge Ben obtained his first pandeiro (Brazil’s most popular type of tambourine) when he was thirteen, and two years later, was singing in a church choir. He also took part as a pandeiro player in the blocos of Carnaval, and from eighteen years of age, he began performing at parties and nightclubs with the guitar given to him by his mother. He was given the nickname “Babulina” after his enthusiastic pronunciation of rockabilly singer Ronnie Self’s song “Bop-A-Lena”. Was introduced to Tim Maia by Erasmo Carlos. It was in 1963 at one of those clubs in which he performed that Jorge’s musical career took off; he came on stage and sang “Mas, que Nada!” to a small crowd that happened to include an executive from the recording company, Philips. One week later, Jorge Ben’s first single was released. // The hybrid rhythms that Jorge employed brought him some problems at the start of his career, when Brazilian music was split between the rockier sounds of the Jovem Guarda and traditional samba with its complex lyrics. However, as that phase in Brazilian pop music history passed and bossa nova became better known throughout the world, Ben rose to prominence. // Holdings both television programs O Fino da Bossa and Jovem Guarda from Rede Record, after being reprimanded by the production of “O Fino da Bossa”, chose to participate in the Jovem Guarda, soon after, joined the program Divino, Maravilhoso from TV Tupi, presented by Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil. // Jorge Ben’s first public appearances were in small festivals organised by his friends, where bossa nova and rock and roll predominated. As with most musicians of the time, Ben was initially influenced by João Gilberto even though he was quite innovative in his own right. The aforementioned song, “Mas, que Nada!”, was his first big hit in Brazil, and remains to this day the most played song in the United States sung entirely in Portuguese.[citation needed] Outside of Brazil, the song is better known in cover versions by Sérgio Mendes and the Tamba Trio. The song has also been reinterpreted by prominent jazz artists including Ella Fitzgerald, Oscar Peterson, Dizzy Gillespie and Al Jarreau; as well as other samba artists of the time, such as Elza Soares.// His musical work has been vastly sampled by music producers and DJs, and covered by many bands in a variety of genres such as heavy metal, disco, rock, reggae, jazz, drum and bass, house music and more. // Ben’s 1963 debut album Samba Esquema Novo was met with great acclaim from fans, and encouraged Philips to capitalize on the success with immediate follow-up albums. The label pressured Ben to hastily record songs imitative of his debut, along with cover songs, resulting in the three albums within the span of 18 months and a strain on the singer’s relationship with Philips. He left the label after his 1965 album Big Ben. // In 1969, Jorge Ben released his eponymous album amid the excitement of the cultural and musical Tropicália movement. The album featured Trio Mocotó as his backing band, who would go on to launch a successful career on the back of their association with Ben. The album was noted for “País Tropical”, one of his most famous compositions, although it would be Wilson Simonal who would take his recording of the song to the top of the charts in Brazil that same year. Instead, the song “Charles, Anjo 45”, also from the self-titled album, would become Ben’s biggest self-performed chart hit of the year. // Jorge Ben released his most esoteric and experimental albums in the 1970s, most notably A Tábua de Esmeralda in 1974 and Solta o Pavão in 1975. The following year he released one of his most popular albums, África Brasil, a fusion of funk and samba which relied more on the electric guitar than previous efforts. This album also features a remake of his previously released song “Taj Mahal.” With its commercial success and sustained radio play, the melody made its way into the 1979 hit “Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?” by Rod Stewart. Ben sued for plagiarism and Stewart settled the lawsuit and donated the single’s royalties to UNICEF. // In 1989, Jorge changed his recording label as well as his artistic name, becoming Jorge Benjor (or Jorge Ben Jor). At the time, it was said that there were numerous reasons for his change in name; other sources say it was in response to an incident where some of his royalties accidentally went to American guitarist George Benson. // In 2002, Jorge Ben contributed to the critically acclaimed Red Hot + Riot, a compilation CD created by the Red Hot Organization in tribute to the music and work of Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, which raised money for various charities devoted to raising AIDS awareness and fighting the disease. He collaborated with fellow hip-hop artists Dead Prez, Talib Kweli, and Bilal to remake Fela Kuti’s famous song “Shuffering and Shmiling” for the CD. // Ben was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Latin Recording Academy in 2005. A year later, a remake of Ben’s “Mas, que Nada!” became an international chart hit for Sérgio Mendes with The Black Eyed Peas after being used by Nike in a global TV advertisement during the 2006 FIFA World Cup; this remake (the second time Mendes had covered the track) reached the Top 10 in several European countries, including the UK and Germany, in addition to reaching Number 1 in the Netherlands. // Jorge Ben is also a big fan of Flamengo, a Brazilian football club, located in Rio de Janeiro, which counts Zico, Junior and Leandro among their former star players. Ben’s interest in football carries over to his music, as many of his songs deal with the subject, such as “Flamengo”, “Camisa 10 da Gávea”, “Ponta De Lança Africano (Umbabarauma)”, “Zagueiro”, “Fio Maravilha”, and “A Loba Comeu o Canário”. // On July 7, 2007, he performed at the Brazilian leg of Live Earth in Rio de Janeiro.]
Marcos Valle – “Marcos Valle” from: Vontade de Rever Você / 2023 Mad About Records / 2023 / [orig. Som Livre / 1980] [Marcos Kostenbader Valle (born 14 September 1943) is a Brazilian singer, songwriter, and record producer. He has produced works in many musical styles, including bossa nova, samba, and fusions of rock, soul, jazz, and dance music with Brazilian styles. Valle is credited for popularizing bossa nova in the 1960s. // Valle was born as Marcos Kostenbader Valle on 14 September 1943. He and his family lived in an apartment near Copacabana beach. Valle began playing piano at the age of five, studying the instrument and classical music for thirteen years. His parents purchased him a Petrof piano when he was ten years old. Growing up, he became influenced by Marvin Gaye. In 1963, he and his family lived in a house, and Antônio Carlos Jobim had just moved across the street from them. Valle is married to singer Patricia Alví. He previously had a wife named Anamaria. /// Valle began his career with the debut album Samba Demais in 1963. His second album O Compositor e o Cantor (1965) contained the hit single “Samba de Verão”. Walter Wanderly’s rendition of the track entered the US Top 40 in 1966. Warner Brothers records released an album of instrumentals titled Braziliance! in 1967. Fearing he would be drafted for the Vietnam War, he moved back to Brazil. // During this period, Brazil’s military dictatorship had started. He and his brother and lyricist Paulo Sergio Valle, initially refrained from incorporating politically charged lyrics, but once Valle returned to his country, he changed the tone of his music to reflect the situation in Brazil. According to Peter Margasak, Valle’s songs “became increasingly gloomy and baroque, though its foundation never ceased to be samba and bossa nova.” // Garra was released in 1971. Will Hodgkinson of The Times remarked that the track “Jesus Meu Rei”, “sounds so much like Christian devotional pop that you would never guess it’s about how much everyone hates Brazil’s president.” Valle also contributed to the Black Power movement with the track “Black Is Beautiful”. Valle also contributed to the soundtrack for Vila Sésamo, a Brazilian version of Sesame Street. // Valle grew displeased with his life in Brazil. He took a break from performing live in 1975 and relocated to Los Angeles. Devoting more of his time as a composer and in recording studios, it would take years for him to regain confidence in performing, “Maybe it was five years [away from live performance] that time”, as Valle claimed. // Votande De Rever Você was released in 1981. With its tracks written alongside Leon Ware and Peter Cetera, Bush said it “offered an excellent example of boogie-funk samba.” Valle released his second self-titled album Marcos Valle in 1982. He conceived the album as his way to celebrate Brazil’s dissolution of the military government. Its track “Estrelar” was popular in Brazil but especially in Europe. Having written the track with Leon Ware, Valle said, “It’s maybe more important than ‘Samba Summer’. It was so nice that [‘Samba Summer’] was a hit in the world. But ‘Estrelar’ was important to attract the young people from new generations and new cultures.” // After releasing his soul-pop output Tempo do Gente in 1986, he continued his career of composing songs for films and television shows, and collaborating with other artists. The 1990s saw a revival in bossa-nova and an interest in Valle. He released Nova Bossa Nova in 1998. John Bush has seen him embrace “trends in the dance community” at that time, he said that its “production is crunchy and indebted to acid jazz (with even a drum ‘n’ bass breakbeat or two), while the title track and “Bahia Blue” are just as slick and well-produced as his ’80s material.” // In 2010, he released Estática, an album which saw him return to a more organic approach, albeit with the use of some analog synthesisers. The record features expansive horn and string arrangements and has been referred to as a “masterpiece” by some.]
10:28 – Underwriting
Raskovich & Braen – “Costa Smeralda” from: Tempo libero / Redi Edizion / 2023 [Orig. Panda Records /1975] [Braen & Raskovich is a pseudonym for italian library music maestros Alessandro Alessandroni (Braen) & Giuliano Sorgini (Raskovich).]
Michel Gonet – “Moon to Light” from: Tele Music: 30 Classics French Music Library, Vol. 1 / BMG Rights Management / 2019 [Michel Pierre Henri Gonet was a French composer, arranger and conductor. He sometimes used these names: C. Vario, Cecil Wary. He played in groups: Cecil Wary Orchestra, Michel Gonet Et Son Orchestre. This compilation gathers 30 classics of the French Music Library. 70-80’s Pop, Electronic Music, Funk, Jazz, Latin, rarities coming from the mythic French Music library TELEMUSIC.]
P.A. Dahan – “Carmel Beach” from: Tele Music Continental Pop Sound / Be With Records / 2023 [orig. 1972] [Pierre-Alain Dahan was a French drummer, percussionist and composer, born March 1, 1943 in Oran, Algeria. He died December 23, 2013 in Le Thor, France.]
Sparklehouse – “It Will Never Stop” from: Bird Machine / Anti / 2023 [The music for Bird Machine was recorded by Sparklehorse prior to Mark Linkous’ 2010 suicide. Linkous’ brother Matt oversaw unreleased music and found the track “It Will Never Stop” in 2022. In June 2023, the full album was announced, made up of older recordings, with additions made by Matt and Melissa Linkous. The initial tracks were recorded with Steve Albini and were intended to be the band’s fifth studio album prior to collaborating with Danger Mouse for Dark Night of the Soul. “Scull of Lucia” was previewed on July 11.// Sparklehorse was an American indie rock band from Richmond, Virginia, led by singer & multi-instrumental-ist Mark Linkous. It was active from 1995 until Linkous’s 2010 death. Before forming Sparklehorse, Linkous fronted local bands Johnson Family and Salt Chunk Mary. Only one song, “Someday I Will Treat You Good”, survived from these earlier bands to be played by Sparklehorse. Linkous said he chose the name Sparklehorse because the two words sounded good together and could be a loose metaphor for a motorcycle. At its incept-ion, members of Sparklehorse included Paul Watson (banjo, cornet, lap steel and electric guitar), Scott Minor (drums, chord organ, banjo), Johnny Hott (Wurlitzer organ, percussion, backing vocals), & Scot Fitzsimmons (standup bass). // Sparklehorse’s first album, Vivadixiesubmarinetransmissionplot (1995), produced by Cracker frontman David Lowery (credited as “David Charles” on the record), was a modest college radio success. In 1996, while touring Europe with Radiohead shortly after the album’s release, Linkous consumed a combinat-ion of anti-depressants, valium, alcohol, and heroin in a London hotel room. Unconscious and with his legs pinned beneath him for almost 14 hours, the resulting potassium build-up caused his heart to stop for several minutes after his body was lifted up. The ensuing surgery almost caused him to lose the use of both legs and, as a result, he needed to use a wheelchair for six months and required dialysis for acute kidney failure. // Good Morning Spider (1998) was recorded following this incident. Critics have conjectured that Linkous’s brush with death inspired the album’s somber tone, but Linkous said that much of GMS had already been written. One song that resulted from his affliction is “St. Mary”, which is dedicated to the nurses at the eponymous hospital in Paddington where Linkous recuperated. // In 1999 Sparklehorse performed at the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto. 2001 saw the release of It’s a Wonderful Life, featuring appearances by Tom Waits, PJ Harvey, Bob Rupe, Nina Persson and Dave Fridmann. Much of Vivadixie… and Spider were recorded solely by Linkous on his Virginia farm, but the new album was more collaborative. Linkous expressed his satisfaction with the overall sound of It’s a Wonderful Life, which was engineered by Joel Hamilton, while also saying he would have preferred to include more experimental and instrumental material. // On Sept. 25, 2006, Sparklehorse released its fourth album, Dreamt for Light Years in the Belly of a Mountain, collaborating with Danger Mouse, Christian Fennesz, and Steven Drozd. This album featured the radio release “Don’t Take My Sunshine Away” and a remastered version of “Shade & Honey”, which Linkous originally wrote for Alessandro Nivola to sing in the 2003 movie Laurel Canyon, as well as a virtually unchanged re-release of “Morning Hollow”, the bonus track on It’s a Wonderful Life. // In 2008, Sparklehorse recorded a cover of “Jack’s Obsession” from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas for the official compilation album Nightmare Revisited. // In 2009, Sparklehorse teamed up with Danger Mouse & David Lynch on the project Dark Night of the Soul. Corliss et al. (2010) described Dark Night of the Soul as “spooky, beautiful,… bittersweet…considering Linkous’ untimely death.” // In 2009, Linkous collaborated with electronic ambient-music artist Christian Fennesz to create In the Fishtank 15, an EP of experimentation & dreamy atmospherics. In Oct. 2009, Linkous performed with Fennesz during a European tour. // Linkous committed suicide in Knoxville, TN, Mar. 6, 2010]
Sparklehouse – “The Scull of Lucia” from: Bird Machine / Anti / 2023
The Gaslamp Killer & The Heliocentrics – “She’s Coming” from: Legna (Bonus Track Version) / Cuss Records / May 19, 2023 [The Heliocentrics, the genre-bending UK-based recording and production ensemble led by Malcolm Catto and Jake Ferguson, have been making waves with their eclectic sound that draws from an impressive array of influences. The group seamlessly blends funk, jazz, library music, psychedelic, electronica, and various world musics to create a sound that defies categorization. // Over the years, they’ve collaborated with the likes of Mulatu Astatke, DJ Shadow, Archie Shepp and Orlando Julius – further cementing their cult status as a pioneering force that has attracted a legion of discerning music heads around the world. // Meanwhile, the enigmatic Gaslamp Killer, born William Bensussen, has been making a name for himself on the other side of the pond with his unconventional approach to music. The Los Angeles-based DJ / producer has a deep well of knowledge when it comes to library music, psychedelic rock, bass-heavy instrumental hip-hop, Middle-Eastern / Indian rare grooves, and the dirtiest drums on earth. // In 2001, GLK dropped his first mixtape, aptly titled “The Gaslamp Killers,” which introduced Malcolm Catto’s first and only solo project, “Popcorn Bubble Fish.” Fast forward to 2009, Stonesthrow asked GLK to record a mix for a new band they were releasing called The Heliocentrics. // The stars would align a few years later, as The Heliocentrics would go on to tour with the GLK Experience as his backing band. This laid the groundwork for a monumental collaboration that was recorded at Quartermass Sound Lab, and would take many years to complete. // The resulting album is a testament to the unique sound and influences of both GLK and The Heliocentrics, and is a prime example of the groups’ experimental approach to music. The partnership showcases the Heliocentrics’ ability to effortlessly blend genres while GLK’s ear for rare and eclectic sounds further cements his status as one of the most innovative producers around. // This limited edition 12″ single LP comes in a deluxe case wrapped hardback outer sleeve with spot UV coating. High quality poly lined inner sleeves to protect the 160g virgin vinyl records.13 tracks including a download card that contains a digital bonus! Mixed by Malcolm Catto & Jake Ferguson at Quartermass Sound Lab. Mastered by Kelly Hibbert at Almachrome. // The cover features photography by Carlos Ximenez + Imaging and Layout by Blacksmith Branding. // A. Owusu – Electric Guitar; A. Yaghmai – Electric Guitar; B. Patkova – Vocals on ‘She’s Coming; J. Yglesias – Percussion; J. Ferguson – Bass, Guitars, Synth, Effects; M. Catto – Drums, Guitars; O. Parfitt – Clavinet, Moog; R. Bush – Strings, Moog, Effects; W. Bensussen – Additional Writing, Arranging, and Editing. String arrangements: J. Ferguson and R. Bush. Additional Writing, Arranging, and Editing: W. Bensussen. Mixing: J. Ferguson and M. Catto. Recorded at: Quatermass Studios, Hackney, London. Mastering: K. Hibbert at Almachrome]
10:59 – Station ID
The Gaslamp Killer & The Heliocentrics – “Rumble In the Jungle” from: Legna (Bonus Track Version) / Cuss Records / May 19, 2023
Blonde Redhead – “Melody Experiment” from: Sit Down for Dinner / Section 1 Records / September 29, 2023 [Blonde Redhead is an American alternative rock band composed of Kazu Makino (vocals, keys/rhythm guitar) and twin brothers Simone and Amedeo Pace (drums/keys and lead guitar/bass/keys/vocals, respectively) that formed in New York City in 1993. The band’s earliest albums were noted for their noise rock influences, though their sound evolved by the early 2000s with the releases of Misery is a Butterfly (2004) and 23 (2007), which both incorporated elements of dream pop, shoegaze and other genres. They have released nine regular studio albums and have toured internationally. //Amedeo and Simone Pace were born in Milan, Italy, and grew up in Montreal (Saint-Léonard), but later moved to Boston to study jazz. After earning Bachelor’s degrees, they entered the New York City underground music scene. Blonde Redhead formed in New York in 1993 after Amedeo and Simone met Kazu Makino, an art student at the time, by chance at a local Italian restaurant.[6] The band named themselves after a song on the 1981 EP A Taste of DNA by the no wave group DNA. // Blonde Redhead’s self-titled debut album was released in 1995. Shortly afterwards, fourth member Maki Takahashi left the band and was replaced by her friend Toko Yasuda as bassist. Yasuda played on the band’s second album La Mia Vita Violenta also released in 1995. Both records appeared on the New York label Smells Like. The band continued as a trio. // Their third album, Fake Can Be Just as Good, was released through Touch & Go in 1997. The band enlisted the help of Vern Rumsey of Unwound, who filled the role of guest bassist. Subsequent albums featured Skúli Sverrisson, who the twins knew from their time in Boston. // On their fourth album, In an Expression of the Inexpressible, Guy Picciotto of Fugazi was hired as producer. Picciotto also contributed in the construction to the song “Futurism vs. Passéism Part 2” as well as lending it his vocals to the 1998 release. In 2000 Picciotto also co-produced Melody of Certain Damaged Lemons with Ryan Hadlock, an album about the relationship between Makino and Amedeo Pace. // The four-year delay between Melody of Certain Damaged Lemons and Misery Is a Butterfly is attributed to Makino’s recovery time after being trampled by a horse. Much of the visual and lyrical imagery of Misery Is a Butterfly is reflective of the accident, especially in the music video for “Equus.” It was the last time Picciotto produced the band. // In 2006 Makino recorded vocals for the film Sisters. Alan Moulder mixed the trio’s album 23 which was released on 4AD, in April 2007. // In mid-2008, they wrote and recorded the score of the documentary feature film The Dungeon Masters. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and was released on February 12, 2010; a soundtrack album was released in July 2010. In 2009, Blonde Redhead contributed to the AIDS benefit album Dark Was the Night produced by the Red Hot Organization. // In March 2010 the band included a demo version of the song “Not Getting There” on a 4AD sampler entitled Fragments From Work In Progress. Their eighth album, Penny Sparkle, was released in September 2010 through 4AD. The album was again mixed by Alan Moulder, and reached 79 in the Billboard 200 chart. For the subsequent tour the band added a key-board player. The band released a six-track remix EP in July 2011. // A year later, the band started the project for their next album but without the support of 4AD. Self-financed, the band embarked on a haphazard recording schedule with producer Drew Brown. Simone Pace noted about Brown’s involvement that “he has so much experience and definitely dictated the direction of the record; the choices of instruments, concept and that it was minimal.” He forced the band to use analogue instruments. // In April 2014 their song “For the Damaged Coda” was used in an episode of the first season of the cartoon Rick and Morty. The use of this song was again repeated in April 2017 in the third season. The use of the song became an important plot device regarding the character “Evil Morty” for the series. Around 2018 this song became an Internet meme expressing the sadness one feels at the worst moments of one’s life. The band released their ninth album, Barragán, on September 2, 2014, through Kobalt. It was preceded by the single “No More Honey” that appeared in June. It was followed by the second single, “Dripping,” which included a video. The band also provided the soundtrack to the Danish film The Commentator. // In June 2016 it was announced that the band would release the box set Masculin Féminin on September 30 through The Numero Group. It contains 37 tracks, which cover the first two albums, associated singles, radio sessions and unreleased demos from the period. In 2017, the band released the EP 3 O’Clock, which comprises four songs and featured contributions from Eyvind Kang, Michael Leonhart, Sam Owens and Mauro Refosco, among others. // In September 2019, Kazu Makino released her first solo album, Adult Baby, which featured Ryuichi Sakamoto (on piano, field recordings, and “organic instruments”), Ian Chang and Greg Saunier (drums), and Mauro Refosco (percussion). // The band toured the US in 2022 on select dates supporting Tool // Current members: Kazu Makino on rhythm guitar, keyboards, vocals (1993–present); Amedeo Pace on lead guitar, bass, keyboards, vocals (1993–present); and Simone Pace on drums, keyboards (1993–present).]
Slowdive – “chained to a cloud” from: everything is alive / Dead Oceans / September 1, 2023 [Everything Is Alive is the fifth studio album by English rock band Slowdive,. It is their first album in six years and their second since reforming, following their self-titled album released in 2017. // The album received critical acclaim and was commercially successful throughout Europe, reaching the top ten in Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. // Slowdive entered the studio in September 2020 to begin recording their fifth album. The band originally booked studio sessions for April 2020 that were cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, the band suffered the loss of Rachel Goswell’s mother and Simon Scott’s father. Neil Halstead, who wrote all of the album’s songs, said that the music was more of an “escape” from the darkness that the band’s members were going through. Goswell struggled with alcoholism in the wake of her grief before entering sobriety. “I thought it was going to be quite a dark record but once we got together as a band, I think some of that darkness lifted and some of the tunes became a bit lighter,” Halstead said. // The album arose from material that Halstead wrote with modular synthesizers in 2019 for a planned electronic solo record.[4][6] He was unsure of the song “Kisses”, which was ultimately released as the album’s lead single, as it felt “too pop” for him. The instrumental “Prayer Remembered” originated from an arpeggiated synth line before Scott filtered guitar leads through a Max patch system. Halstead flew out to Los Angeles to mix the album with producer Shawn Everett, which resulted in the drums becoming “dirtier sounding” // Slowdive are a British rock band that formed in Reading, Berkshire, in 1989. The band consists of Rachel Goswell on vocals, guitar and keyboard, Neil Halstead on vocals and guitar, Christian Savill on guitar, Nick Chaplin on bass guitar and Simon Scott on drums, all of whom have played on the band’s debut studio album Just for a Day (1991). Halstead is the band’s primary songwriter. // he band is one of the most prominent within the shoegaze scene, which rose to prominence in England during the early 1990s. While the band’s second studio album Souvlaki (1993) initially received mixed reviews upon release, it has since been recognized as one of the best releases of the 1990s and one of the greatest shoegaze albums of all time. The band broke up soon after the release of their third studio album Pygmalion in 1995, having seen Scott, Savill and Chaplin all depart the band prior. The remaining members continued under a more folk and country-influenced direction as Mojave 3. // Slowdive reunited in 2014 to play the Primavera Sound festival and released a self-titled studio album in 2017, their first in 22 years. The band’s fifth studio album Everything Is Alive was released in 2023 and became Slowdive’s first top ten album in any country, doing so in Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the UK.]
Sigur Rós – “Glóð” from: ÁTTA / BMG Rights Management / June 16, 2023 [On June 16, 2023, Sigur Rós released “Blóðberg”, the first single from their eighth studio album, Átta (eight in icelandic). The self-produced album was recorded at Sundlaugin Studio, on the rural outskirts of Reykjavik. // Sigur Rós (Icelandic pronunciation: [ˈsɪːɣʏrous] is an Icelandic post-rock band that formed in 1994 in Reykjavík. It comprises lead vocalist and guitarist Jón Þór “Jónsi” Birgisson, bassist Georg Hólm and keyboardist Kjartan Sveinsson. Known for their ethereal sound, frontman Jónsi’s falsetto vocals, and their use of bowed guitar, Sigur Rós incorporate classical and minimal aesthetic elements. Jónsi’s vocals are sung in Icelandic and non-linguistic vocalisations the band terms Vonlenska. They have released eight studio albums, and attracted critical and commercial attention with their second album Ágætis byrjun. Current members include: Jón Þór “Jónsi” Birgisson on lead vocals, guitars, bowed guitar, keyboards, harmonica, banjo, bass guitar (1994–present); Georg “Goggi” Hólm on bass guitar, glockenspiel, toy piano, keyboards, backing vocals (1994–present); Kjartan “Kjarri” Sveinsson on synthesizers, keyboards, piano, organ, programming, guitars, flute, tin whistle, oboe, banjo, backing vocals (1998–2013, 2022–present)]
11:23 – Underwriting
Marion Merritt is founder of Records With Merritt, a small, independent, minority owned business, at 1614 Westport Rd., in KCMO. More info at: http://www.recordswithmerritt.com
Marion Merritt thank you for being out Guest Producer on WMM
11:25
Bennis Cletin – “Jungle Magic” from: AfroMagic Hypnotic Grooves & Estatic Moves /Everland / 2023 [Orig. Oct. 25, 2009] [When a passionate DJ and crate digger intuitively selects music for a DJ compilation, without artistic compromise and without the burden of trends, AfroMagic vol.1 emerges from the depths of his soul. Herewith we present the new favorite phonomancer’s tool for all the DJs who experience the dance floor as a sanctuary and a source of freedom and love. // he most fundamental thing that defines African music is that it was created for dancing. In African dance, there is often no clear distinction between ritual celebration and social recreational entertainment – one can seemlessly merge with the other. Because dance and rhythm have more power than gesture and more richness than words, and because they express the deepest experiences of human beings, dance is in itself a complete and self-sufficient language. It is truly an expression of life with all of its emotions – joy, love, sadness and hope – without which there is no African music and dance. For the African people, dance and music are integral parts of the body and soul, thus depicting the expression of life, current emotional states, visions or dreams. Through hypnotic repetitive music and dance, people communicate with each other and with the souls of the dead, the animals, the plants, the stars, the Gods… They free the body and the spirit through ecstatic states, reaching a healing sense of freedom, happiness, and satisfaction. // Throughout history, this transcendental perception of rhythm and dance originating from Africa, influenced popular music worldwide, thus creating new living and breathing forms of musical genres – freeing them from their industrial mold. Funk, disco, soul, boogie, reggae, dancefloor jazz etc., developed in parallel all over the world. It is foolish to perpetually discuss where they originated from and who were the creators of all these fiery dance floor genres – being obvious that they directly or indirectly originate from the African continent and its people who were as well, over the centuries, influenced by disturbing socio-cultural factors of colonialism. However, no one can enslave the soul. The seeds of free and uninhibited dance and rhythm, true to their original form, initially first sprouted onto the USA’s fertile fields of clubbing and popular music while later evolving in other parts of the world. // The disco funk club culture manifested itself as a phenomenal explosion of artists and grooves in the second half of the 70s in the USA. Shortly it spread around the world continually reigning over charts in its various forms – to this day. Clubs emerged where the DJ is an almighty shaman and the dancers are a tribe united under one roof. This urban ritual had and still has a single goal: togetherness, freedom, and love. Clubs have evolved into temples where we free ourselves from the burden of consumerist lifestyle and suppressed emotions – a place where we receive love and give love – to be who we really are. // Disco funk clubbing was such an influential global phenomenon that its influence can be observed in various other genres from the disco funk era i.e. progressive rock, which mutated by layering complex rock arrangements with a disco funk groove resulting in hybrids, highly sought by today’s diggers, producers and collectors. // The profit-hungry music industry of the 80s very quickly commercialized the original disco funk sound by amputating it of its original Afro groove to be able to easily ‘sell’ it globally. So, the original disco funk groove became underground again, and it has remained so until this day. Today, for a DJ to unearth that ravishing groove that will lead the dancers to the stars, he must dig passionately like a true musical archeologist in search of that groove that picks you up after just a few initial beats. That groove which forces the atoms in your body to vibrate, that groove which unites the body and releases the burden. // The selection of songs on the AfroMagic compilation is focused on African club music created in the second half of the 70s and early 80s, when it was at its peak, especially in West Africa. The funk, soul, disco, boogie, RnR, jazz and reggae were entranced at one point by African culture and magic. Considering that, unfortunately, the African continent always lagged in technological progress due to constant colonial weight and theft – new electronic instruments (synths, effects, etc.) were employed rather naively by local musicians who weren’t following default rules dictated by the industrial pop culture. It is in fact this that gives the AfroMagic compilation that special quality and uniqueness – because the music presented here was created without any restrictions or influence of capitalism. // The compilation opener, Jungle Magic by Benis Cletin, hitting us from the start with an acidified loud synth, sounding like a space helicopter mixed in with a slow 4/4 kick, indicates the progressiveness and freedom that forms the basis of the AfroMagic compilation series. Soon after the wackiness of Jungle Magic, Joe Kemfa takes us to the very center of African clubbing with his band Aura. A chorus of chanting female singers, heavy lofi modulation paired with a murky groove and dreamy synths in an unconventional arrangement – bringing forth the smells and images of intoxicated clubbing hedonism of the 70s West Africa. Felix Lebarty finally breaks out of the intoxicated atmosphere of Joe Kemfa and switches back to the original recipe – repetitive funk & afrobeat grooves interspersed with dirty RnR licks and solos that simply make you close your eyes and fly away. Goldfinger Doe & B.M.S. close the A-side in an anthemic manner with synth tribal funk, which at one point polymorphs into a scorching hot Latino groove that enthusiastically rocks the dancefloor. // The B side, with a slightly different progressive concept, is opened by the great Geraldo Pino. // A mutant reggae riddim song based on a fat groove with Geraldo telling us directly and humorously about his ‘problem’ – wife with an insatiable sexual appetite. On B2 Joe Moks raps like a rhythm machine on top of a repetitive psychedelic disco groove. The lyrics, ‘Boys and Girls let’s groove on together’, will stay with you and ring for a long time. A special AfroMagic moment you’ll fall heads over heels instantly is ‘10 years of love’ by Danny Offia and the Friks. This song vividly displays influences from the early House music developments originating from the USA, making this number an authentic representative of the Afro proto house sound from the early 80s. // The last song on the B side by the BLO band, with its pop disco sensibility, ends the first volume of the AfroMagic compilation in style – as per any DJ set of value and significance. // The AfroMagic series of compilations was created with the goal of being used as a tool for real DJs who stick to the aesthetics and essence of clubbing. ]
11:33 – Interview with Betty Berry
Betty Berry Studied Earth and Environmental Science at University of MO-Kansas City
She worked Worked at U.S. Environmental Protection Agency from April 26, 1977 to December 31, 2010.
In 2010 she served as Deputy Division Director, Environmental Services Division, USEPA at U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Region 7 (IA, KS, MO, NE)
Betty Berry is a 90.1 FM Volunteer and Active Member. She is also the President of the Kansas City Blues Society.
Betty joins us to share details about The International Blues Challenge on Saturday, September 16 at 12:00 Noon. at Knuckleheads Garage 2715 Rochester St, KCMO. This is a live regional preliminary IBC event, with the winner representing the KC Blues Society in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN along historic Beale Street.
Betty also talks with us about KC Blues Society Presents Blues in The Bottoms with Ronnie Baker Brooks, Mathias Lattin & Keeshea Pratt and Womanish Girl, on Saturday, September 23, 2023 – 6:30 PM at Knuckleheads 2715 Rochester St, KCMO. More info at http://www.blueskc.org
Betty Berry Thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
The International Blues Challenge is on Saturday, September 16 at 12:00 Noon. at Knuckleheads Garage 2715 Rochester St, Kansas City, MO. This is a live regional preliminary IBC competition, with the winner representing the KC Blues Society in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN along historic Beale Street.
This challenge represents the worldwide search for those blues bands and solo/duo blues performers ready for the international stage, yet just needing that extra big break. Each affiliated Blues Society of The Blues Foundation has the right to send a band and solo/duo musician(s) to represent its organization at the IBC.
Affiliated Blues Societies are required to stage a live regional preliminary IBC challenge, with the winner of that event representing the organization in the International Blues Challenge held annually in Memphis, TN., along historic Beale Street. While affiliated Blues Societies are encouraged to follow The Blues Foundation’s structure and rules during their local challenges, each organization is free to structure its preliminary rounds as it sees fit, as long as a true challenge between multiple musicians takes place resulting in a single band and/or solo/duo artist(s) being identified. For more information follow this link.
The 2023 Kansas City Blues Society “Road to Memphis” International Blues Challenge entrants are:
Solo/Duo category: Conita & Marty, Drum & Dye, The Elles, Steve Farber & Bill Thompson, Jonny Green
Band category: Big Luke & the Soul Disciples, The HooDoo Brothers, Legerdemain, Sharp Marbles, Velvet Blues Revue
ALSO:
KC Blues Society Presents Blues in The Bottoms with Ronnie Baker Brooks, Mathias Lattin & Keeshea Pratt and Womanish Girl, on Saturday, September 23, 2023 – 6:30 PM at Knuckleheads
Dubbed “blues royalty,” Ronnie Baker Brooks’ style of Chicago blues has been performed on stages around the world.
Mattias Lattin won 1st place at the 2023 International Blues Challenge and was also awarded Best Guitarist.
Keeshea Pratt is a siren featured on the microphone with soaring and soulful lead Mississippi inspired vocals.
Womanish Girl is a Kansas City-based blues rock duo comprised of guitarist and vocalist Katy Guillen and drummer Stephanie Williams
11:43
Keeshea Pratt Band – “Have A Good Time Y’All” from: Believe / Keeshea Pratt Band / May 29, 2018 [ Singing since the age of six, Keeshea Pratt has shared the stage with several notable national figures including bluesman Bobby Rush, Eddie Cotton, opera singer Grace Bumbry, soul singer Musiq Soulchild, and gospel icon the late Reverend James Moore. // Pratt has accomplished what few Mississippi based singers before her has ever achieved: The ability to attract fans from all walks of life without ever straying from the intricate roots that nurtured her awarding winning voice in the first place. // Pratt’s impressive musical range and undeniable charisma changed the landscape of local entertainment by displaying the kind of vocal immediacy and vulnerability possessed by few singers and leaving you wanting more. // About Keeshea Pratt – Keeshea face closeup looking directly at cameraDraped with amazing style, class, and sophistication, Pratt takes you on a journey through all genres of music. “I always get asked the same question,” says Pratt, “What type of music do you sing?” My answer has always been the same… “I sing it all.” // There has been an elite array of influences with unique sounds and styles that has cultivated Pratt’s alluring and spirited presentation. She’s an artist that appreciates all genres and refuses to be put in a box, and her connection with her audience allows her to tap into whatever their mood is and render an offering of shear vocal pleasure. // Some of Pratt’s accomplishments include “The Jackson Free Press Artist of the Week 2011”, “The 2012 Female Artist of the Year in the Jackson Music Awards”, and a featured artist the 2010 Chicago Blues Festival. However, her love of music continues to ignite her passion causing her to dig deeper into the depths of her musical soul to give her audience more of what they crave for this dynamic vocalist.// Recently in 2018 Pratt lead her band to a higher elevation when they represented Houston in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis winning by a landslide and “took the blues music world by storm” as stated in the Houston Press. Pratt’s win was the first in Houston’s history earning her the well-deserved honor to be newly crowned “the queen of the blues!”// Believe by The Keeshea Pratt Band Album Cover ArtShe is unique in her own right, her style is all her own, “influence” by the greats, however, this grit and energy can’t be borrowed. Pratt will continue to reach higher and work harder to ensure the purity of her craft is never diluted… because it is the greatest gift to yourself and your fans. // Her road to the top of her musical game has been filled with the type of conviction that now causes a younger generation to look to her as a musical influence. // Having sang, performed, studied her craft, triumphed and failed Pratt now has a story about life to sing about to the world and is spreading her wings to do what so many of her adoring fans have longed for… her… living in their radio! // She is taking her music career to another level and is positioning herself to become a sought after recording artist. She and her band recently released their debut album “Believe” in May 2018. Pratt now resides in Houston, TX with her family. Are you ready for Pratt experience?]
[KC Blues Society Presents Blues in The Bottoms with Ronnie Baker Brooks, Mathias Lattin & Keeshea Pratt and Womanish Girl, on Saturday, September 23, 2023 – 6:30 PM at Knuckleheads 2715 Rochester St, KCMO. More info at http://www.blueskc.org]
11:47 – More Interview with Betty Berry
Betty Berry is a 90.1 FM KKFI Volunteer and Active Member. She is also the President of the Kansas City Blues Society.
The Kansas City Blues Society is a non-profit organization that is passionate about promoting and preserving the blues music and community in Kansas City. Our main focus is to expand the presence and life of the blues through various community events as well as educational programs. The Blues Society works to strengthen the links between community and local musicians in an effort to bring value to its members’ musicians and the surrounding community.
The Kansas City Blues Society has the mission of increased awareness, understanding, and appreciation of blues music.
Kansas City Blues Society are ALWAYS looking for helpful volunteers to assist with events and tasks behind-the-scenes. Please contact Dennis Nelson at 913-233-6969 or email him through our Contact page. More info at http://www.blueskc.org]
Board Members: Betty J. Berry, President Donna Lunnon, Treasurer Dennis Nelson, Monthly Jams/Volunteers Charles “Dutch” Metzker, Merchandise Cory Bryars, Monthly Newsletter Craig Smith, Membership
Betty joins us to share details about The International Blues Challenge on Saturday, September 16 at 12:00 Noon, at Knuckleheads Garage 2715 Rochester St, KCMO. This is a live regional preliminary IBC challenge, with the winner representing the KC Blues Society in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN., along historic Beale Street.
Betty also talks with us about KC Blues Society Presents Blues in The Bottoms with Ronnie Baker Brooks, Mathias Lattin & Keeshea Pratt and Womanish Girl, on Saturday, September 23, 2023 – 6:30 PM at Knuckleheads 2715 Rochester St, KCMO. More info at http://www.blueskc.org
Betty Berry Thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley
11:54
Ronnie Baker Brooks – “Pick Powder” from: Take Me Witcha / Watchdog Records / May 22, 2001 [Ronnie Baker Brooks (born January 23, 1967) is an American Chicago blues and soul blues guitarist, singer and songwriter. He was a respected club performer in Chicago, even before recording three solo albums for Watchdog Records. The son of fellow Chicago blues musician Lonnie Brooks, he is the brother of another blues guitarist, Wayne Baker Brooks. // AllMusic journalist, Andy Whitman, described Brooks as “… a better than average soul singer, a fine blues interpreter, and a monster guitarist with an ample supply of technique and passion.” // He was born Rodney Dion Baker in Chicago, Illinois, United States. // At the age of nine, he first appeared on stage playing guitar alongside his father. In 1985, he graduated from Hales Franciscan High School. He learned to play bass guitar and joined his father’s band in 1986. He played guitar on his father’s live album, Live from Chicago: Bayou Lightning Strikes, released by Alligator Records in 1988. He was then part of Alligator Records’ 20th Anniversary Tour, performing alongside Koko Taylor, Elvin Bishop, and Lil’ Ed Williams. // By 1998, Brooks was pursuing a solo career. His debut album, Golddigger, was released the same year by the Watchdog label. It was produced by Janet Jackson. He was nominated for a Blues Music Award in 2000 for Best New Artist. His second album, Take Me Witcha, was released in May 2001. // Brooks next album was The Torch (2006). The Boston Herald described it as “ferocious and unrelenting, The Torch may be the year’s best blues album.” The album included contributions from Lonnie Brooks, Eddy Clearwater, Jimmy Johnson, Willie Kent, and Al Kapone and was produced by Jellybean Johnson. From 2007 to 2010, Brooks toured with band members Carlton Armstrong, C.J. Anthony Tucker, and Steve Nixon, to support The Torch. On occasions when his younger brother, Wayne Baker Brooks, joined him and his father on stage, they were billed as the Brooks Family Band. // Brooks played at the Notodden Blues Festival in 2007 and at Memphis in May and the Musikfest in 2009. In August 2010, he co-wrote three tracks with Chris Beard for the latter’s Who I Am and What I Do, released by Electro Glide Records. // In 2012, the blues journalist David Brais declared Brooks “blues royalty”, stating that “his particular style of Chicago blues has been performed on stages around the world. It honors the true torch bearers of this unique sound which includes Willie Dixon, Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Luther Allison and his father.” // Times Have Changed is Brooks most recent album, and was released in January 2017. // Brooks lives in Dolton, Illinois, and is a regular at Artis’s Lounge on Chicago’s South Side.]
[KC Blues Society Presents Blues in The Bottoms with Ronnie Baker Brooks, Mathias Lattin & Keeshea Pratt and Womanish Girl, on Saturday, September 23, 2023 – 6:30 PM at Knuckleheads 2715 Rochester St, KCMO. More info at http://www.blueskc.org]
Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now” from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957] Advertisements
Next week on Sept 20 we talk with Alyssa Murray about her new album SCROLLIN’ released September 1, 2023. We also talk with Mica Elgin Vi and members of the band Mondern Day Fitzgerald about their new concept Rock Oprea Album MEET ME ON ARMOUR ROAD. Also joining us is Shawn Crowley of Manor Records. And we talk with Jeffery Stoltz of Frightened Stag about their new Theatrical Stage Production
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information. Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
Wednesday MidDay Medley 