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, May 12, 2021

New & MidCoastal Releases + Erin Keller + Lee Langston + Connor Leimer

1. “Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks”
   from: Orig. Motion Picture Soundtrack All That Jazz / Casablanca / December 20, 1979
   [WMM’s Adopted Theme Song]

2. Art d’Ecco – “In Standard Definition”
   from: In Standard Definition / Paper Bag Records Records / April 23, 2021
   [Art d’Ecco is based in British Columbia, “There’s more than a little David Bowie in both the sonic and fashion leanings of Art d’Ecco, a performer who fluidly crosses musical and gender lines, creating highly memorable tracks — and sporting an unforgettable look. Often labelled “neo glam,” the music boasts hints of everything from ’50s pop to psychedelics, from Velvet Underground-era art rock to Grimes-inspired electronics.” – CBC Music Art d’Ecco released the album Trespasser on Paper Bag Records on October 12, 2018. When d’Ecco moved into his grandmother’s cottage on one of the islands, he hadn’t planned on creating a new project. But, as it often does, circumstance charted his course. His grandmother, living with Alzheimer’s, suffered a related phenomenon called ‘sundowning,’ which triggers increased agitation and anxiety around sunset. “The only way to calm this lady down was to sit down at the piano,” says d’Ecco. He would play “Bohemian Rhapsody,” passing it off as Beethoven. After she was relocated, d’Ecco remained in the empty house where he had played as a child. Draped in memory, he gravitated toward the piano, spending the long, lonesome, quiet nights on the bench before the instrument. This is where Art d’Ecco was created. He relocated to a new cottage, built a studio and barricaded himself with copies of Deerhunter’s Cryptograms, Bowie’s Low, and choice krautrock records. In this solitude, d’Ecco would chase tones for hours. The result is a richly-realized confluence of the ferocious spark of those trailblazers and a distinct sadness, with d’Ecco as mad scientist, stitching together these delicious fragments and animating them.]

3. The Grisly Hand – “Now That You Know”
   from: “Now That You Know” – Single / The Grisly Hand / May 14, 2021
   [Since April 2021 the band has been in the studio working on a handful of tracks, with the intention of releasing singles over the summer & fall, and possibly a full-length release at the end of the year. It has been four and a half years since The Grisly Hand has released new music. The band released Hearts & Stars on November 18, 2016, and Flesh & Gold on October 2, 2015. The band had spent a year with Joel Nanos at Element Recording and decided to split the songs between two CD/digital releases: and also release them both together as a double vinyl album release, called The Grisly Hand, released November 18, 2016 with a new reshuffling of songs for the vinyl LP format. Jimmy Fitzner on guitar & vocals, Lauren Krum on vocals & percussion, Matt Richey on drums, Mike Stover on steel guitar, bass & vocals, Ben Summers on guitar, vocals & mandolin, Dan Loftus on bass, keyboards & vocals. For the double albums the recordings also featured: Rich Wheeler on tenor saxophone, Nick Howell on trumpet, and Mike Walker on trombone. More info at: http://www.thegrislyhand.com]

[The Grisly Hand play Lemonade Park 1628 Wyoming (NW corner of Wyoming & 17th St.), on June 11, with DJ Literate Corvette. Lemonade Park is a limited capacity socially distanced outdoor venue created between recordBar, Voltaire, & Moxie Catering. More at http://www.lemonadeparkkc.com ]

[The Grisly Hand play The Ship 1217 Union Ave, KCMO in the West Bottoms on Saturday, July 24.]

4. Florian Arbenz, Nelson Veras & Hermon Mehari – “Race Face”
   from: Conversation #1: Condensed / Hammer Recordings / April 23, 2021
   [2021 sees the launch of an ambitious project from Swiss drummer Florian Arbenz who is set to release 12 albums (or “conversations”) with 12 radically different groups of musicians. // The 1st of this series, recorded from his studio in Basel and accompanied by a feature-length video of the session, features American trumpeter Hermon Mehari and Brazilian guitarist Nelson Veras. Across a career spanning more than 25 years, drummer and percussionist Florian Arbenz, has carved out a reputation as not just a skilled musician, but as a creative collaborator. Whether with the long-standing trio VEIN who have recorded and toured with Greg Osby & Dave Liebman, or with his own project Convergence which brings together musicians from four continents, he is not content to sit still. // In 2021, he launches perhaps his most adventurous collaboration yet: a series of 12 albums or “conversations” with 12 different line ups. The thread that joins them all together is his fascination with bringing visionary musicians together and giving them space to express themselves in his studio. Together, they work through a selection of music curated by Florian to suit the individual musical personalities present. // Conversation #1 – subtitled Condensed – sees Florian joined by American trumpeter Hermon Mehari & Brazilian guitarist Nelson Veras. // “I’ve known and played with Nelson for several years and am captivated not only by his highly original and virtuoso playing, but also by his unique character and his great sense of humor. He’s a complete player both rhythmically & harmonically so it seemed obvious to get him on board for this series. Hermon, on the other hand, I had never met before our recording session. I had, however, admired his warm tone, open-minded musicality & improvisational skills from afar and am so happy to have finally recorded with him!” // This slightly unusual line up of guitar, trumpet & drums might, at first glance, miss a bass instrument. But despite the challenges, the creativity of the musicians involved, as well as Florian’s addition of custom percussion instruments covering this range, make for a fascinating listen which moves from hard-swinging soloing to dreaming soundscapes. // Hermon Mehari released CHANGE FOR THE DREAMLIKE on June 5, 2020, that was created in a barn in the French countryside. Hermon wrote, “Like many people during this period, I wasn’t able to think much about the future, only the present and the past. These songs are therefore personal journal entries, versions and visions of my wishes, fantasies and memories. Together they create a kind of modern mixtape of dreams, in every sense of the word, in which my trumpet, all alone in that barn, is a vulnerable presence, virtually and masterly supported by some of my closest musical collaborators around the world.” This was a follow up to his debut solo release, Bleu, from 2017. Hermon Mehari grew up in Jefferson City, Missouri, home of Lincoln University. He is a 2010 graduate of the University of Missouri – Kansas City Music Conservatory. In 2015 he finished first, at the prestigious Carmine Carusa International Jazz Trumpet Competition at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville Texas. Hermon was a semifinalist in the 2014 Thelonious Monk Jazz Competition. In 2014 he released the CD “Our Journey” with Diverse, which was recorded in Paris featuring Logan Richardson on alto saxophone. Hermon was also the winner of the 2008 National Trumpet Competition and placed second in the International Trumpet Guild competition in Sydney, Australia. He splits his time between touring and playing all over the world and creative projects in Kansas City. Hermon has collaborated with Cat Mahari on BAM! the Workshop, he is also a founding member of Diverse Jazz, Diverse Trio, and The Buhs. He has played with Peter Schlamb, Making Movies, John Velghe & the Prodigal Sons, Mikal Shapiro, Krystle Warren. Hermon was featured on the world-renowned saxophonist Bobby Watson’s 2013 release, “Check Cashing Day”. More information at: http://www.hermonmehari.com ]

5. The Moose – “The Sun”
   from: Spature / The Moose / April 22, 2021
   [26-track double album. Music and Lyrics by The Moose. Engineered, Mixed, and Mastered by Emma Klein and Jake Hilger. “Spature” is a sonic amalgamation of sunny peaks and dark chasms. Join The Moose as they experiment with the fantastical worlds of space and nature. From ‘Lava’ to ‘Mother Tree’, there is a song on this double LP for everyone.The Moose is a psychedelic rock/pop alternative band from Lee’s Summit / Kansas City, formed in 2016 by Jake Hilger, Alex Huffman, and Tyler Frey with Emma Klein and Parker Tozier joining in 2016. The Moose released their debut full length album, The First Real Encounter, on Dec. 21, 2018. The Moose joined us LIVE on WMM on July 10, 2019.]

6. MellowPhobia – “Jackal”
   from: “Jackal” – Single / MellowPhobia / May 7, 2020.
   [Music and Lyrics by Tillie Alexandra Hall, Producer Tillie Alexandra Hall. Recording Engineering by Justin Mantooth. Mastering by Pete Maher. Adam McKee on drums MellowPhobia were formed out of the indie alt-rock scene of Pittsburgh, PA. Now residing in their home city of Kansas City, producing a highly original sound that they describe as “landlocked surf rock”. Socially conscious lyrics, and hook laden tunes keeps the crowd jumping. The band revolves around songwriter and guitarist Til who provides the distinctive vocals to all MellowPhobia tracks. In July 2018 MelloPhobia released the 3-song EP LISTEN. More info: http://www.mellowphobia.com]

7. Krystle Warren & The Crew – “Rhythm of Life”
   from: The Crew EP / Parlour Door Music / September 15, 2020
   [Written by Nicky Holland & Roland Orzabal for Oleta Adams’ third album CIRCLE OF ONE released May 14, 1990.Roland Orzabal of the UK band Tears For Fears while on tour for SONGS FROM THE BIG CHAIR discovered Oleta singing and playing piano in a Westin Crown Center Hotel Lounge and then asked her to help them create songs for their third album THE SEEDS OF LOVE from 1989 and tour with them. After the album Tears For Fears broke up and Roland Orzabal returned the favor to Oleta by producing her album. The album was initially unsuccessful as were the first two singles “Rhythm of Life” and “Circle of One”. However, Adams had a hit in early 1991 with the third single from the album, her cover of Brenda Russell’s “Get Here,” which peaked at #4 in the UK Singles Chart and #5 on the US Billboard Hot 100. The album, which had received considerable critical acclaim, was re-released with two additional tracks and peaked at #1 in the UK Albums Chart and made the Top 20 of the US Billboard 200. It was certified Gold in both the UK and the US and received two Grammy nominations. // THE CREW EP was produced by through isolation to bring unity. The Crew is Lakecia Benjamin, Matthew Silberman, Jacob Snider, Joe Blaxx, Solomon Dorsey, Zach Djanikian, Cassorla, Krystle Warren, and Ben Kane. They have recorded unique versions of classic songs with the hope of encouraging the rallying cries of The Moment: the movement of the people. // In the lockdown of their homes, they sewed together their interpretations of “Bein’ Green” (based upon Ray Charles’ rendition); “Gimme Some Truth” (a mighty John Lennon composition); “Dear Landlord” (a scathing indictment from the blistering pen of Bob Dylan); and “Rhythm of Life”, (a timeless statement originally performed by Oleta Adams). // A portion of the proceeds from The Crew. EP will be donated to the various causes and organizations. From Billboard.com: Singer-songwriter Krystle Warren has made a powerful statement about the struggle for Black equality with the help of Kermit the Frog’s iconic song “Bein’ Green” (written by Joe Raposo). // The moving five-minute clip, over which Warren sings her rendition of the 1970 song — since recorded by Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra and others — sprang from a covers EP she recorded during the pandemic with a group of musicians known as The Crew. Warren embarked on the project after her forthcoming album with her regular group, The Faculty, was put on hold due to COVID-19. The EP, which tackles themes of racial injustice in the wake of nationwide Black Lives Matter protests this summer, also includes a cover of John Lennon’s “Gimme Some Truth.” // The “Bein’ Green” video weaves in footage of this year’s Black Lives Matter protests, and also includes a heartbreaking montage of young Black children choosing white dolls over dark-skinned ones. It additionally features archival footage of such transformative Black figures as James Baldwin, Angela Davis, Malcom X, Nina Simone, Marsha P. Johnson and Al Sharpton, as well as victims of police brutality including Sandra Bland, George Floyd and Eric Garner. It ends with a clip from a speech by civil rights activist Ella Baker. // “‘Bein’ Green,’ it’s such a gorgeous song, and it says so, so much,” says Warren. “I began thinking about what I wanted it to express visually before we started [recording the song]. Essentially — it’s not easy being Black. That’s what Ray Charles was saying, and we felt it needed to be said again.” // Warren, who now resides in Paris, began performing in her native Kansas City at the age of 16 before moving to New York City, where she started busking on the streets and later formed her regular band, The Faculty. She and the group have recorded several full-length albums, including 2009’s Circles, 2012’s Love Songs and 2017’s Three the Hard Way. Her next album is slated for release this winter. // A large percentage of proceeds from sales of the EP — which is available for digital downloads via Warren’s website now and released on all streaming platforms next Friday — will be donated to the ACLU. Krystle Warren joined us live on WMM on September 23, 2020.]

10:28 – Underwriting

8. Erin Keller – “Moonlight In Vermont”
   from: Distracted / Erin Keller / May 9, 2016
   [Kansas City based vocalist Erin Keller is originally from Waukee, Iowa. She was born in August, in 1980. Erin has been singing professionally for 25 years. Erin sang with the internationally competitive Des Moines Children’s Choir for 5 years, and in All-State choir in high school for 3 years, which helped her earn a voice performance degree from the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, in 2002. Erin has peformed with the Grammy-Award winning Kansas City Chorale, for six years. Erin earned a Master’s in Music Education from the University of Colorado at Boulder. In Colorado she worked for two years in public schools teaching music and moved back to KC to continue her career as musician and educator. Erin is also a voice & piano instructor at the Blues to Bach Music Center.]

[Erin Keller and Matt Carrillo play Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO on August 28th at 4:00]

10:34 – Interview with Erin Keller

Kansas City based vocalist Erin Keller is originally from Waukee, Iowa. She was born in August, in 1980. Erin has been singing on a professional level for nearly 30 years. Erin sang with the internationally competitive Des Moines Children’s Choir for 5 years, and 3 years in All-State choir in high school, which helped her earn a voice performance degree from the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri in Kansas City, in 2002. Erin earned a Master’s in Music Education from the University of Colorado at Boulder. In Colorado she worked for two years in public schools teaching music and moved back to KC to continue her career as musician and educator. Erin performs with the Grammy-Award winning Kansas City Chorale. Erin has also worked as a featured soloist with Owen Cox Dance Ensemble, New Ear, and many KC jazz musicians, the big band at University of Colorado, a West African Highlife Ensemble, the Balkan brass band Gora Gora Orkestar. In May 2016 Erin released her album, “Distracted,” and after a cancer diagnosis she played live shows while also receiving multiple rounds of chemo treatments. Throughout it all she continued singing and working in the music and arts community. Erin is currently organizing shows for Raj Ma Hall and World Culture KC, a COVID SAFE outdoor series featuring world class musicians from right here in Kansas City. Info: http://www.rajmahall.org

Erin Keller thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

We just heard from your beautiful album Distracted that you recorded with Chad Meise.

Immediately after the album is released on May 9, 2016 Erin was diagnosed with colon cancer and began treatments, while going through a divorce, and moving to a new home.

Waukee, Iowa, is where Erin came from. Her older sister played the bass. Her mother recently passed from COVID-19 during the pandemic.

UMKC Conservatory of Music brought Erin to Kansas City, where she made friends and built collaborations with KC Civic Opera, KC Choral, Own Cox Dance Ensemble.

Erin is currently organizing shows for Raj Ma Hall and World Culture KC, a COVID SAFE outdoor series featuring world class musicians from right here in Kansas City.

Raj Ma Hall Saturday Open Studio and Performance Series at 2829 E 7th St Kansas City, MO, is an outdoor Kansas City Institution for the Arts located at the homeport/studio of artist Roger “Capt. RamJet” MacBride-Guibor as he and other local musicians, performers, and artisan bring you COVID-SAFE sanctuary of Soul, art, and a little Funk through a collaboration of work during these COVID-19 Pandemic times. Performances are on Saturday Afternoons, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM featuring two musical acts that bring to life a complete environmental immersion of multiple disciplines and mediums into a creation of the arts to be shared with you. Learn more at http://www.rajmahall.org

World Culture KC is an extension of the Raj Ma Hall Series. A wrap around porch on the Westside, 1747 Summit St Kansas City, MO 64108, which provides the perfect venue for COVID safe performances by world-class artists from right here in Kansas City.

World Culture KC and Raj Ma Hall Shows:

May 14th @ 7:30 – Arnold Young – WCKC: 1747 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
Remove your swing shades and your bebop blinders for the Roughtet, a free jazz quartet featuring the compositions and improvisations of UNRA (Arnold Young), a local giant in the free jazz evolution of Kansas City.

May 15th at 4:00 – True Lions and Vanity Plates – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO
True Lions is Synth-pop and good vibes brought to you by excellent local musicians Alisön Hawkins and Terri Quinn. Vanity Plates is the solo project of Lacey Hopkins. Simple and sentimental, Vanity Plates seems to capture the apprehensions and perceptions of the loneliness of an imaginary familiar.

May 21st @ 7:30 – Matt Carrillo – WCKC: 1747 Summit Street KCMO 64108
Matt has just relocated back to Kansas City after a long stint in New York City as a successful saxophonist and vocalist/keyboardist. His sound is always smooth, his sentiment always genuine, and his artistry world-class.

May 22nd @ 4:00 – Mike Dillon – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St Kansas City, MO
Come enjoy some freaked out funky originals, conceptual free jazz, amazing percussion skills on the vibes, drums, tablas, and more. Featuring GoGo Ray on the drums and Ginny Mac on accordion, this unique trio will lay it down hard and heavy for a great show to get your freak on!

May 23rd @ 4:00 – Julie Bennett Hume with Tim Behrens – WCKC: 1747 Summit KCMO
Come enjoy some beautiful, authentic Folk Music from veteran musicians with eclectic tastes and reams of musical knowledge. Sure to be an enjoyable afternoon!

May 28th @ 5:00 – Bryan Hicks – WCKC: 1747 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
Don’t miss the chance to hear one of Kansas City’s best jazz singers, Bryan Hicks. He does unique repertoire and arrangements that will have you feeling all the feels and leave you swinging in your heart and soul.

May 29th @ 5:00 – Emily Frost – WCKC: 1747 Summit St Kansas City, MO
Come enjoy some beautiful music from the beautiful Emily Frost with Bryan Hicks on bass and Rod Fleeman on guitar. She does songs you dont expect, and the authenticity of her performance is so compelling. Dont miss out on this beautiful evening!

May 30 @ 4:00 – Mike Dillon – WCKC: 1747 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
Come celebrate Memorial Day Weekend with some great music from the inimitable Mike Dillon! He’s funky, he’s punky, he’s jazzy, he’s worldly, and he’s an amazing musician. Don’t miss out on a beautiful afternoon with some fun energizing music!

June 4 @ 7:00 – River Cow Orchestra Cosmic Jazz – WCKC: 1747 Summit KCMO
Take a trip on the spontaneous music making ride that is River Cow Cosmic Jazz Orchestra. Avant-garde, meets experimental, meets the outside of now.

June 5th @ 4:00 – Grand Marquis – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St Kansas City, MO
American roots styles blend down by the riverside of Kansas City blues and Memphis soul to form a second line party stretching to the Big Easy. A mighty chorus of horns wail over a groove-heavy rhythm section, while big, soulful vocals highlight well-crafted original songs.

June 6 @ 4:00 – Matt Carrillo – WCKC: 1747 Summit Street Kansas City Missouri 64108
Matt has just relocated back to Kansas City after a long stint in New York City as a successful saxophonist and vocalist/keyboardist. His sound is always smooth, his sentiment always genuine, and his artistry world-class. Join us for a beautiful evening of music and community outside.

June 11 @ 7:30 – Arny Young – WCKC: 1747 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
Remove your swing shades and your bebop blinders for the Roughtet, a free jazz quartet featuring the compositions and improvisations of UNRA (Arnold Young), a local giant in the free jazz evolution of Kansas City.

June 12 @ – Amado Espinoza – WCKC: 1747 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
Amado Espinoza, from Bolivia, is a unique composer/performing artist/educator specializing in the Bolivian Charango. He also builds custom-made native instruments from all parts of the globe. His music includes flutes, 6 and 12 stringed guitar-like instruments, and traditional percussion elements from different cultures of the South American continent.

June 18 @ 7:30 – Matt Carrillo – WCKC: 1747 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
Matt has just relocated back to Kansas City after a long stint in New York City as a successful saxophonist and vocalist/keyboardist. His sound is always smooth, his sentiment always genuine, and his artistry world-class. Join us for a beautiful evening of music and community outside.

June 19th @ 4:00 – Lorna Kay’s One Night Stand & Kian Byrne – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th
Lauren Krum will bring you classic country songs done with a spirit and authenticity only Lauren can deliver. Her voice is beautiful and truly one of a kind. Talented singer and multi-instrumentalist Kian Byrne will bring a set of good music by good people that will make you feel good. Come celebrate and rejuvenate.

June 25 @ 7:30 – Brian Scarborough Quintet – WCKC: 1747 Summit KCMO
The Brian Scarborough Quintet is a Kansas City-based ensemble whose repertoire is artfully poised on the brink of both sweepingly melodic original music and an ingenious tour de force of jazz history. With a scintillating host of talent, the Brian Scarborough Quintet is comprised of Matt Otto on tenor saxophone, Adam Schlozman on guitar, Jeff Harshbarger on bass, Brian Steever on drums, and bandleader, composer, and arranger Brian Scarborough on trombone.

June 26th @ 4:00 – Pablo Sanhueza Latin Jazz Band – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO
Bring your dancing shoes because this one is going to be HOT!! (Don’t worry, it’s a very well-shaded area.) I just know that Pablo brings the heat! Bring your friends and have an energized and fun afternoon with the Pablo Sanhueza Latin Jazz Band!

July 9 @ 7:30 – Arny Young – WCKC: 1747 Summit Kansas City, MO 64108
Remove your swing shades and your bebop blinders for the Roughtet, a free jazz quartet featuring the compositions and improvisations of UNRA (Arnold Young), a local giant in the free jazz evolution of Kansas City.

July 10th @ 4:00 – Fritz Hutchison & Jametatone – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO
Come rock out to some great original music by local artists Fritz Hutchison and J Ashley Miller. Both bands have a big energy and a big sound that will have you smiling and dancing the afternoon away in the shade.

July 17th @ 4:00 – Marcus Lewis & We The People – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO
Come enjoy some of the most interesting and important contemporary jazz music around with Marcus Lewis’ original music and arrangements and We The People, featuring Eddie Moore, Jason Emmond, and Zach Morrow. Not to be missed!

July 31st @ 4:00- Rex Hobart + Slim Hanson + The Poor Choices-Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th
There ain’t no better country in Kansas City than Rex Hobart and Slim Hanson. Put your dancing shoes on, pop a beer, and enjoy the shade.

August 14th @ 4:00 – Kadesh Flow & Trevor Turla – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO
Kadesh Flow is one of the most innovative artists on the Kansas City scene mixing jazz and hip-hop, trombone with potent verse. Also a trombonist, Trevor Turla, has an exciting repertoire of originals and arrangements.

August 28th @ 4:00 – Erin Keller and Matt Carrillo – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO
Come celebrate Erin’s Birthday and Charlie Parker’s 101st Birthday with transcendant originals from Erin Keller accompanied by The James Ward Band. Then enjoy some Charlie Parker and other jazz standards from accomplished saxophonist Matt Carrillo.

September 11th @ 4:00 – Alyssa Murray & Ryan Lee – Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO
Alyssa Murray has such a natural and easy sound and is a master of creative enterprise with her first solo release “THX” coming out soon. Ryan Lee is one of the most talented musicians in KC. Don’t miss this world-class performance by two true KC creatives.

Raj Ma Hall Saturday Open Studio and Performance Series at 2829 E 7th St Kansas City, MO, is an outdoor Kansas City Institution for the Arts located at the homeport/studio of artist Roger “Capt. RamJet” MacBride-Guibor Saturday Afternoons, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Learn more at http://www.rajmahall.org

World Culture KC is an extension of the Raj Ma Hall Series. A wrap around porch on the Westside, 1747 Summit St Kansas City, MO 64108, which provides the perfect venue for COVID safe performances by world-class artists from right here in Kansa

Erin Keller thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

True Lions play Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO on Saturday, May 15th at 4:00 – 7:00 with Vanity Plates. Learn more at http://www.rajmahall.org

10:47

9. True Lions – “Blue Marble”
   from: The Fempire Strikes Back, / Manor Records / April 9, 2021
   [Alisön Hawkins on keytar & vocals, Aryana Nemati on saxophone, Calvin Arsenia on harp & vocals, Claire Adams on guitar, Elizabeth Kosko on drums & percussion, Fritz Hutchison on lead electric guitar, Iona DeWalt on synthesizers;, Leslie Butsch on saxophone, Teri Quinn on bass, plus a sample of Greta Thurnberg’s speech at the UN Climate Action Summit in NYC, Sept. 2019. Recorded at Deep Space Co-op. Tracking & engineering by Ross Brown at Escape Pod Audio. Mixing and mastering by Joel Nanos at Element Recording. In 2019 True Lions released their EP debut, “Cute at Best,” on Feb. 5, 2019. They followed up with a second EP called. You’re Not Invited, released on Nov. 9, 2019. For these recordings True Lions was: Alison Hawkins on guitar, synth, and vocals; Elizabeth Kosko on percussion, vocals; Mikala Petillo on bass, vocals; Claire Adams on guitar, vocals; Leslie Butsch on saxophone, Ezgi Karakus on cello; and Teri Quinn on vocals. All songs written by True Lions and produced by Claire Adams &Alison Hawkins. Tracking & Engineering by Claire Adams. Mixing & Mastering by Ian Dobyns and Chase Horseman. Info at: http://www.manorrecords.com ]

[True Lions play Raj Ma Hall: 2829 E 7th St KCMO on Saturday, May 15th at 4:00 – 7:00 with Vanity Plates. Learn more at http://www.rajmahall.org.]

10. Middlechild – “My Sun”
    from: REBIRTH 3-song EP/Single / Oakwood Records / April 23, 2021
    [REBIRTH – Single features three new tracks: “On Me”, “Run It Back”, and “My Sun”. Middlechild released the debut single “October 31st” on May 24, 2019. Middlechild is the moniker for Kansas City, Missouri singer Danzell Capers, formerly in the band Brother, who released a single called “Mobbin” that was included in a very fine compilation release series from our friends at The Record Machine called “How To Keep Dreaming: Vol. III,(2016), feat. 28 tracks from bands & artists from KC, Lawrence, and surrounding areas.]

11. Lava Dreams – “Simple Magic”
    from: “Simple Magic” – Single / R.I.O.T. LLC / May 7, 2021
    [Solo artist Lava Dreams aka Julia Hamilton writes songs influenced by pop, soul, RnB, jazz, trap, house, funk, reggae, rock, and world music. Lava Dreams is planning to release an 11-song album later this year and will be releasing a new single every month leading up to the release. This is the 4th single and follow up to, “Surprise!” released March 26, 2021 and “You’re The One” released February 26, 2021 and “The Amazing Wave” released January 8, 2021 through R.I.O.T. LLC Music and produced by Duncan Burnett. Lava Dreams released their debut EP “Good Energy + Focus” on June 13, 2020. Written by Lava Dreams and produced by Duncan Burnett. Solo artist Lava Dreams aka Julia Hamilton is from Kansas City, MO, her guitar-based music is both dreamy & electric. Lava Dreams began writing lyrics and melodies as a young child. Growing up, she learned to play her first guitar chords from her father – who played around the house and in local bars. After playing guitar and singing in several Kansas City bands as a teenager, she set out to become a solo artist in 2018. Julia Hamilton is also a film maker who received her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Film from Avila Unversity. You can listen to Lava Dreams on Spotify, iTunes, Tidal, Google Play, SoundCloud, Bandcamp. Lava Dreams joined us on WMM on April 22, 2020. Info at: http://www.LavaDreamsMusic.com]

[Lava Dreams play The Black Box, 1060 Union, KCMO, in the West Bottoms on June 17 with Jas and Kemet Coleman]

11:00 – Station ID

12. The Xtraordinaire$ – “So Amazing (feat. Lee Langston)”
    from: X Essential / Melody Soul Records / April 2, 2016
    [All tracks produced, mixed and mastered by Leonard Dstroy & Dominique Sanders as The Xtraordinair$. Project coordination by Leonard Dstroy. // MelodySoul is extremely proud to present an exceptionally talented production duo based out of Kansas City, MO. They go by the name of “The Xtraordinair$” and are comprised of producers Leonard Dstroy & Dominique Sanders. The duo has a knack for combining various styles that combine like Voltron to form elegant, soulful rhythms and grooves with just the right amount of abstraction. The album is a proper fusion of Hip-Hop, R&B, Jazz, Neo-Soul, and Funk, combined with exceptional lyricism, high quality performances and artistic prowess from all contributors. // The Xtraordinair$ first popped on the scene via Parisian label, Laruche Records, where they dropped a stunningly impressive debut release titled “X Life” which was released in October 2015. The outcome was nothing short of spectacular. We highly suggest you grab a copy, which you can snag right here: larucherecordings.bandcamp.com/album/x-life. // X ESSENTIAL is the sophomore release from the production duo, and it is a true exercise in collaboration, which has always been at the heart of MelodySoul. Numerous local musicians (in Kansas City) were brought in to record segments to give it that live, jazzy feel. The track list is oozing with dynamic versatility. There is a little something for everyone. // The album is an exceptional piece of art that we are very proud to present. We hope you enjoy it as much as we do! // Features include: BoomBaptist, ChromadaData, Jonah Christian, Anthony Saunders, Lindsay Olsen, Miles Bonny, Reggie B, Churchboi, Ubiquitous, Stik Figa, Kutty Slitz, Reach, Joc Max, Barrel Maker, Lee Langston, Peter Schlamb, Andy McGhie, Eddie Moore, Hermon Mehari, Paula Saunders, Jimmy Dykes, Sherwin Keith Rice II (King). More info at: http://www.melodysoul.com]

13. The Buhs – “All Night Remix (Feat. Lee Langston and Les Izmore)”
    from: All Night (Remix) – Single / The Buhs / February 24, 2016
    [“All Night” was originally written by Matt Villinger for his album “All Night.” This remix captures a new vibe for the song and pays tribute to The Buhs and their late nights creating music in the Crossroads of Kansas City. The track was written by Matt Villinger and Les Izmore. Arranged by Ryan J. Lee, Brad Williams, Hermon Mehari, Tim Braun, Lee Langston, and Les Izmore. The Buhs features singers Julia Haile, Lee Langston, and Anthony Saunders along with emcees Reach and Les Izmore. More info: http://www.thebuhs.com.]

11:00 – Interview with Lee Langston

Lee Langston is a KC based singer, songwriter, entertainer, producer, traveler, and humanitarian. Lee has performed with the super group, The Buhs, recorded with The Xtraordinair$ (Leonard Dstroy & Dominique Sanders), and organized sold-out “tribute” shows celebrating Erykah Badu, Lauren Hill, D’Angelo and others. In early 2021 Lee Langston was chosen to fill Lonnie McFadden‘s former 15 year residency at The Phoenix, every Friday. The new gig came with a seal of approval from Mr. McFadden himself. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Lee Langston grew up in Kansas City, and spent years performing with gospel groups. Lee is a 1995 graduate of the Paseo Academy of Performing Arts. Lee Langston is also the Music Director at Center for Spiritual Living where he has been part of the music team since 2005.

Lee Langston, thanks for being with us on WMM.

Congratulations to Lee, in early 2021 Lee Langston was chosen to fill Lonnie McFadden’s former 15 year residency at The Phoenix, every Friday. The new gig came with a seal of approval from Mr. McFadden himself. Langston, who was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but raised in Kansas City, has been performing professionally since his early 20s.

Many in the Kansas City Music Community discovered Lee Langston when he organized sold-out “tribute” shows celebrating Erykah Badu, Lauren Hill, New Edition, D’Angelo and others at Crosstown Station, recordBar and Uptown Theatre. Lee told music writer Tim Finn in INKansas City Magazine, “I always had a desire to put together shows that reflected the artists I enjoyed most, but at first, I wasn’t quite sure how to execute it. I was invited to perform as a vocalist in a hip-hop tribute show produced by Les Izmore, where he paid homage to Common’s Like Water for Chocolate…After that, I was able to better determine how I wanted to format my own shows. I started with my first actual breakthrough moment in the city, around 2010-11 when I did my first self-produced show: A Tribute to Lauryn Hill at the former Crosstown Station.”

There are many in Kansas City that already knew about the musical powerhouse of Lee Langston because he is the Music Director at Center for Spiritual Living on West 39th Street where he has been part of the music team since 2005. Mark Manning has told friends that one of the best live music performances in Kansas City is at 10:00 AM on Sunday mornings where I used to attend with the mother of my partner, Julia Davila and hear the music service of Lee Langston with at that time paired Lee with the amazing Monique Danielle performing spiritual music mixed with Stevie Wonder and other R and B classics.

Lee told music writer Tim Finn in INKansas City Magazine, “Around age 13, I started to truly realize my love for singing. However, I was extremely shy. I sang around the house, but I wasn’t ready for any public consumption. I didn’t really start singing publicly until my late teens at my family church, St. James United Methodist…I started performing in my early 20s. I was a member of several different local “boy bands.” I remembered always having extreme stage fright then. Later, I learned the art of connecting with my audience.”

Lee Langston was also part of The Buhs was a Kansas City based Pop/Soul/Hip-Hop super-group that included, singers: Julia Haile, Lee Langston, Anthony Saunders, emcees: Reach, Les Izmore, and Ryan J. Lee on drums, Hermon Mehari on trumpet, Ben Leifer on bass, Tim Braun on guitar, Brad Williams on drums and Kinyon Price on percussion.

We started this segment with The Xtraordinaire$ and the track “So Amazing (feat. Lee Langston)” from, X ESSENTIAL on Melody Soul Records released April 2, 2016. All tracks produced, mixed and mastered by Leonard Dstroy & Dominique Sanders as The Xtraordinair$. Project coordination by Leonard Dstroy.

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Lee Langston grew up in KC, and spent years performing with gospel groups. Lee is a 1995 graduate of the Paseo Academy of Performing Arts.

When Lee reached out to be on the show it was to talk about the new gig at The Phoenix, but in his massage he also talked about the challenges of the last year, The COVID-19 Pandemic has been incredibly challenging to all artists and performers, but Lee also recently lost his father.

After more than a decade of performing with different music ensembles, Lee Langston took the leap and began performing as a solo act with his band: “Langston and Prototype” in 2009. Shortly after gaining the attention of music lovers in the historic 18th & Vine district, in 2011 Langston he began producing multi-genre music based shows in the urban core of Kansas City, MO. He was inspired to go off the beaten path and decided he wanted to provide local performers with other options to work, while expressing themselves artistically. After releasing his first self-produced show, which to his surprise ended up being a sold out standing room only performance, he realized he had found his niche. Even though he still enjoyed performing at many of the local music venues, it was then that he was shown what Kansas City’s soul music scene was missing.

Langston immediately started producing shows that were custom made for the local artists that he was working with. Most of his shows were done independently, as well as him being commissioned to produce other shows for local businesses, organizations, non for profits, museums, churches and colleges…all of which allowed him to pull in artists from the community that otherwise may not have had the opportunities. He has employed over 120 singers, musicians, poets, spoken word artists, lighting technicians, and sound engineers for Tribute Shows, Themed shows, and musical celebrations of Life. He has shared the stage as an opening act for well-known award winning artists such as Michael McDonald, Cameo, Floetry, Howard Hewitt, Marsha Ambrosius, Angela Winbush, Kenny Latimore, and the list goes on.

In 2014 he toured to Beirut, Lebanon to perform for the Al Mandaloun, which catered to the countries Elite demographic. In 2018 he led a group of musicians to Chiapas, Mexico on behalf of the UNESCO “city of music” designation, and completed a cultural exchange that made history. Currently in 2021 he was chosen as resident artist at one of Kansas City’s longest standing local live music venues, The Phoenix. This residency was previously held by the great Lonnie McFadden.

Here is a comprehensive list of shows to date Lee Lanston has produced:

1. A Celebration of Life February 22, 2020 at the Bowtie Suite
2. Winter Onederland Vol 2, December 13, 2019 at Center For Spiritual Living KC
3. Art Of The Movement (For CCO), October 19, 2019 at the Gem Theatre
4. The New Edition Tribute (The Replay) August 10, 2019 at Just Off Broadway Theatre
5. A Birthday Tribute to Whitney Houston August 9, 2019 at Just Off Broadway Theatre
6. UNESCO Journey To San Cristobal, October 2018
7. A Tribute to Brandy September 16, 2018 for 2 shows at the Buffalo Room
8. A Song for You, August 18, 2018 at AMC Corporate Office
9. Jazz at The Cornerstone Awards, May 15, 2018 at Union Station
10. A Tribute to D’angelo & Lauryn April 7, 2018 at The Just Off Broadway Theatre
11. A Celebration of Life: Jan 7, 2018 at the Buffalo Room
12. Winter Onederland Vol 1, December 15, 2017 at Center For Spiritual Living KC
13. Sweet Love: A Tribute to Anita Baker: October 15, 2017 at the Buffalo Room
14. A Tribute to Aretha Franklin September 17, 2017 at the Buffalo Room
15. The New Edition Tribute Vol 1 August 4, 2017 at The Just Off Broadway Theatre
16. ONEderland May 21, 2017 at the Buffalo Room
17. Gamechangers: The 20 Year Anniversary Of Baduizm April 23, 2017 at Buffalo Room
18. A Tribute to Whitney March 17, 2017 at The Just Off Broadway Theatre
19. Grown Folks: The Love Sequel February 19, 2017 at the Buffalo Room
20. A Celebration of Life: January 29, 2017 at the Buffalo Room
21. Grown Folks Sh*t: November 20, 2016 at the Buffalo Room
22. 90’s R&B Group Battle of the Sexes, Vol 2 (Boys v Girls) Aug. 14, 2016 Buffalo Rm
23. Replay Jill Scott Tribute to re-elect Randy Dunn, June 25, ’16 American Jazz Museum
24. 90’s R&B Group Battle of the Sexes, Vol 1 (Boys v Girls) June 12, 2016 Buffalo Rm
25. A Birthday Tribute to the Legend Stevie Wonder: May 13, 2016 Knuckleheads Garage
26. A Tribute to Erykah Badu (the Replay) April 30, 2016 at the Buffalo Room
27. A Tribute to the Jill Scott songbook: March 20, 2016 at the Buffalo Room
28. Rhythm & Roast Bash: February 21, 2016 at the Buffalo Room
29. Motown Christmas and More! : December 20, 2015 at the Buffalo Room
30. Foreplay/Afterglow (The Relaunch): November 29, 2015 at the Buffalo Room
31. What’s Goin’ On: The 2014 Buck O’neil Celebration, Nov. 8, 2014 at Gem Theatre
32. Cheat is a VERB: June 20, 2014 at Nica’s 320
33. Foreplay/Afterglow Vol 3: April 19, 2014 at Nica’s 320
34. UMKC Special Lauryn Tribute replay: March 12, 2014 at UMKC
35. Foreplay/Afterglow Vol 2: Mar 1, 2014 at Nica’s 320
36. Foreplay/Afterglow Vol 1: Feb 8, 2014 at Nica’s 320
37. Celebration of Life Bash: January 25, 2014 at Nica’s 320
38. If Only For One Night: December 20, 2013 at Nica’s 320
39. An Anchorman Holiday (For AMC) December 6, 2013 at AMC Corporate Office
40. Decades of Soul Vol 2: November 16, 2013 at Nica’s 320
41. Buck’s Tribute to Luther (Honoring Buck O’neils Legacy) Nov. 9, 2013 at Gem Theatre
42. Decades of Soul Vol 1: October 19, 2013 at Nica’s 320
43. A Night at the Movies Vol 2: September 20, 2013 at Nica’s 320
44. A Night at the Movies Vol 1: August 16, 2013 at Nica’s 320
45. A Day at the Movies (Special for AMC) July 13, 2013 at AMC Corporate Office
46. A Tribute to Jill Scott (The Replay) May 31 at Nica’s 320
47. A Mother’s Day Serenade: May 10 2013 at Nica’s 320
48. A Tribute to Charley Pride: April 2013 at the Negroe Leagues Museum
49. Tribute to D’angelo and Lauryn February 9, 2013 at The Gem Theatre
50. The First Jill Scott Tribute, November 23, 2012 at the Record Bar
51. The First Tribute to D’angelo July 7, 2012 at the Record Bar
52. The First Tribute to Erykah Badu January 21, 2012 at the Record Bar
53. Duets, December 2011 at The Isle Of Capri Casino
54. Crooner Tribute, August 2011 at The Isle Of Capri Casino
55. The Follow up Lauryn Hill Tribute: September 15, 2011 at Crosstown Station
56. The Original Tribute to Lauryn Hill: August 13, 2011 at Crosstown Station

During the pandemic in 2020 the nation as one witnessed the murder by police of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the rise of protest across the country, and here in KC, with our own long history of institutional racism. The Black Lives Matter movement became stronger than ever as a grassroots civil rights movement for equality. Can you share your own personal feelings about the movement and your own experience in KC.

Lee told music writer Tim Finn in INKansas City Magazine, “’Black Lives Matter’ is actually an affirmation. I repeat, an affirmation. It doesn’t need to be edited, modified, revised, reworded, or adapted to make anyone else comfortable. Just let it be an actual affirmation of Black Life. This doesn’t erase anyone else’s existence; however, it does give consideration to include ours. It also admits to an awareness that the race hierarchy actually does exists. Once that part is done, look in the mirror and ask yourself: ‘Are you going to contribute to the betterment of actual equality—or are you going to be complicit?’

For people in my community, it happens so much that none of us are shocked when we experience it. One of the things that doesn’t get talked about enough is how much racism and colorism actually play out in many of Kansas City’s music spaces, especially in music and art spaces where races intersect. I have had my share of bad experiences surrounding race in the city. I have filled up space after space with sold-out shows over the past decade, only to learn that in some of the performance spaces, my fans and supporters were not treated well

I have performed for well-known collectives and had to explain to the band owners that it still isn’t safe for Black people traveling through “sundown towns” after late-night shows in remote locations. To that I received insensitive responses. Sundown towns still exist in 2021; I recommend everyone look it up. In recent years, I did a regular stint with a venue inside one of the city’s boutique hotels. The booking agent that brought us in believed in inclusion and happily added my band and several other diverse bands to the schedule. The moment the agent left to further their career elsewhere, all of the Black artists were immediately removed from the calendar.

For months we inquired about continuing on the performance schedule, but none of our calls were returned. Upon deeper research, we even learned that the venue had been participating in “erasure” whenever they advertised Black performers on their social media. “Erasure” is when someone advertises or promotes a Black artist, then intentionally replaces the artists with pictures and scenes that target only a white demographic.

This is a divisive marketing tactic that keeps people from knowing what to expect before they arrive. None of us even knew this had been going on. After months, I was finally able to get a return email from management to discuss this. No sincere apology was offered. Just a template “corporate” response, and no real accountability.

I find it hard to say whether things are really improving. Over the past couple of years several venues in the city have been called out on this type of behavior, but it just repeatedly gets swept under the rug. We have even seen recent articles written where venue owners have openly admitted their clear biases against the Black demographic and spoken of the things they’ve put in place to keep Blacks away.

Over the past decade, I have had to end working relationships with several venues and organizations over that type of behavior.”

Lee Langston thanks for being with us on WMM.

In early 2021 Lee Langston was chosen to fill Lonnie McFadden’s former 15 year residency at The Phoenix, every Friday. The new gig came with a seal of approval from Mr. McFadden himself. Lee Langston is also the Music Director at Center for Spiritual Living where he has been part of the music team since 2005.

11:22

14. Arooj Aftab – “Mohabbat”
    from: Vulture Prince / New Amsterdam Records / April 23, 2021
    [from http://www.aroojaftab.bandcamp.com: 3rd album from Brooklyn-based Pakistani composer Arooj Aftab. Championed by NPR, who praised her composition as one of the “Greatest Songs By 21st Century Women+,” and the The New York Times, who celebrated her work as one of the “Best Classical Music Tracks of 2018,” Aftab’s liminal sound floats between classical minimalism and new age, Sufi devotional poetry and electronic trance, jazz structures and states of pure being. On “Vulture Prince,” the composer’s remarkable voice, backed by a team of renowned musicians, transports listeners to worlds once known. // “’Vulture Prince’ is about revisiting places I’ve called mine,” says Aftab, “places that don’t necessarily exist anymore. It’s about people, friendships, relationships—some relationships that were unexpectedly short term, and how to deal with that.” // While writing “Vulture Prince” Aftab lost her younger brother, Maher, and she dedicates this album to his memory—a signal of emergence from loss and grief. “E quindi uscimmo a revider la stelle,” as Dante says at last, out of the inferno, “and thence we came forth to see again the stars.” // Acting as a second chapter to Aftab’s 2015 debut, Bird Under Water, Vulture Prince opens with a new composition of “Baghon Main,” a track from her first album. The lead song, along with the avian album titles, serves to tie the two records together. “The Tower of Silence comes to mind,” says Aftab, “the Parsi funeral structure where their beloved deceased are left to be consumed by vultures, thus returning to the cycle of life. These sort of shapeshifting elements, the burning desire to embody and lead this mystic ancestral power, growth as a person and musician, all led to Vulture Prince.” // Of course, Aftab’s signature songwriting style also led to Vulture Prince. The composer has an uncanny ability to make music with layers upon layers of instrumentation, yet somehow it all feels very light, uncluttered, minimal on the ears. Aftab’s music then mirrors her voice, ethereal yet heavy—like a cloud crossed with a boulder. // A graduate of Berklee College of Music, the composer channels artists from Terry Riley to Abida Parveen, and has played venues from Lincoln Center to (Le) Poisson Rouge to the Museum of Modern Art. In 2020, Aftab composed music for the Academy Award-shortlisted film Bittu and sang on Residente’s Latin Grammy Award-winning single “Antes Que El Mundo Se Acabe.” On Vulture Prince, she is backed by an all-star cast, including Badi Assad, Maeve Gilchrist, Jamey Haddad, Bhrigu Sahni, Kenji Herbert, Lady Jess, Jarvis Benson, Malcom Parson, Jorn Bielfeldt, Shazhad Ismaily, Juliette Jones, Mario Carrillo, Petros Klampanis, Nadje Noordhuis, Gyan Riley, & Darian Donovan Thomas. // So here is “Vulture Prince”—beautiful, powerful, dusky, and, above all, thoughtful. Included on album are singles, “Mohabbat” and “Last Night,” an old Rumi poem Aftab sings live, but hasn’t before released. Tucked subtly into “Vulture Prince” is “Saans Lo,” a song with words penned by the composer’s late friend Annie Ali Khan, who gently advises us to breathe—to move on. After 7 minutes, “Saans Lo” fades into a washed-out drone before opening up into the colorful jazz-oriented closer, “Suroor”—a dynamic new world of possibilities. ]

11:30 – Underwriting

15. Connor Leimer – “Little Rules”
    from: Like My Mind / Connor Leimer / May 7, 2021
    [Connor Leimer is a New York-based musician, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Produced and mixed by Kyle Dreaden. Recorded by Brendan St. Gelais, Preston Cochran & Scottie Prudhoe. Mastered by Brian Lucey at Magic Garden Mastering. Recorded at: The Smoakstack, and at Trace Horse Dtudio both in Nashville, TN., with Connor Leimer on vocals, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, classical guitar; Jonny Gleaton on bass guitar; and Jake Finch on drums, percussion, mellotron, synth, guitar, conga. “Like My Mind” formed over an arranged dinner meeting with Nashville-based producer Kyle Dreaden. The two sipped red wine opposite each other on a winter night bonding over a mutual adoration of record-making. The rendezvous was as cordial as it was fruitful. The result: four new songs with the sensible backing band of Jonny Gleaton on bass and Jake Finch on drums. Mastered in Los Angeles, California by GRAMMY® Award-winning mastering engineer Brian Lucey (the Black Keys, Cage The Elephant), Connor’s latest book of songs present a love letter to the eccentric with the aim of encouraging listeners to live as cultured amateurs: like that of a wanderlust youth who dreams of speaking another language fluently on a foreign coast. More info at: http://www.connorleimer.com]

11:34 – Interview with Connor Leimer

Connor Leimer is a New York-based musician, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist joins us to share music from his new 4-song EP, LIKE MY MIND released on May 7, 2021. Produced and mixed by Kyle Dreaden the EP was recorded at: The Smoakstack, and Trace Horse Studio both in Nashville with Connor Leimer on vocals, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, classical guitar; Jonny Gleaton on bass guitar; and Jake Finch on drums, percussion, mellotron, synth, guitar, conga. Connor Leimer is formerly from Kansas City, and was last on our show on June 3, 2015. More Info at: http://www.connorleimer.bandcamp.com

Connor Leimer thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Connor Leimer is formerly from Kansas City, and was last on our show on June 3, 2015. whee he played live in our studio.

Connor has just finished work on recordings for his debut album POSTCARD, that were being mastered in NYC.

Following the release of POSTCARD Connor Leimer presented the 17 show “Dorm Room Tour” along the East Coast in the fall of 2015 booked entirely by Connor himself through friends at numerous universities and which culminated in a performance at The Grammy Museum at L.A. Live in 2016.

With the Dorm Room Tour ~ 19 year old Connor Leimer launched his music career. At the same time that some of his peers were navigating beer bongs and dorms for the first time, Connor independently took his music to those very dorms with a mission, and plenty of artists to draw inspiration from. He made his first stop in support of his debut album “Postcard” in Nashville, TN. Performing solo/acoustic to small and intimate crowds, the Dorm Room Tour impressed old friends while capturing new fans.

Tour Dates from: Fall 2015
9/25 – Nashville, TN (Belmont University)
9/26 – Chapel Hill, NC (UNC at Chapel Hill)
9/27 – Greensboro, NC (Guilford College)
9/29- Washington, D.C. (Georgetown University)
9/30 – Washington, D.C. (Secret Show) 10/1 – New York, NY w/ Del Water Gap (NYU – Hells Kitchen) 10/3- New York, NY (Secret Show Ave of Americas)
10/4 – Boston, MA (Berklee College of Music)
10/5 – Boston, MA (Boston College)
10/6 – Philadelphia, PA (Secret Show*)
10/8 – Pittsburgh, PA (University of Pittsburgh)
10/9 – Springfield, OH (Wittenberg University)
10/10 – Bloomington, IN (Indiana University)
10/11 – Chicago, IL (Loyola University)
10/14 – St. Louis, MO (St. Louis University)
10/15 – Fayetteville, AR (University of Arkansas)
10/16 – Lawrence, KS (University of Kansas)

Connor Leimer’s album POSTCARD was Recorded at Weights & Measures Soundlab and Element Recording in Kansas City, MO from 2013-201

Connor attended Belmont University, in Nashville, TN where he graduated in 2020 with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Music.

“Like My Mind” formed over an arranged dinner meeting with Nashville-based producer Kyle Dreaden. The two sipped red wine opposite each other on a winter night bonding over a mutual adoration of record-making. The rendezvous was as cordial as it was fruitful.

The result: four new songs with the sensible backing band of Jonny Gleaton on bass and Jake Finch on drums. Mastered in Los Angeles, California by GRAMMY® Award-winning mastering engineer Brian Lucey (the Black Keys, Cage The Elephant).

Connor’s latest book of songs present a love letter to the eccentric with the aim of encouraging listeners to live as cultured amateurs: like that of a wanderlust youth who dreams of speaking another language fluently on a foreign coast.

Connor’s family lives in the Kansas City area where he socially distanced for the last year during the height of the pandemic.

A month ago, 24 year old Connor moved to New York City.

Connor Leimer Discography

POSTCARD – 10 track album – released October 2, 2015
“Brooklyn” – Single – released May 18, 2018 (recorded in Nashville)
MOUTH WORDS – 4-track EP – released August 16, 2019 (Produced by Josh Rouse)
“Keep Knocking” – Single – released December 11, 2020
“Things I Never Do” – Single – released January 8, 2021 (Produced by Matt Rollings)
“Lonely Life” – Single – released January 22, 2021 (Produced by Matt Rollings)
“Cheap” – Single – released February 5, 2021 (Produced by Matt Rollings)
“Little Rules” – Single – released March 12, 2021
‘Criminals” – Single – released April 9, 2021
“LIKE MY MIND” – 4-track EP – released May 7, 2021 (Produced by Kyle Dreaden)

Connor Leimer thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Connor Leimer’s new 4-track EP “LIKE MY MIND” was released May 7, 2021
More info at: http://connorleimer.com/

11:46

16. Connor Leimer – “Like My Mind”
    from: Like My Mind / Connor Leimer / May 7, 2021
    [ Connor Leimer is a New York-based musician, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Produced and mixed by Kyle Dreaden. Recorded by Brendan St. Gelais, Preston Cochran & Scottie Prudhoe. Mastered by Brian Lucey at Magic Garden Mastering. Recorded at: The Smoakstack, and at Trace Horse Dtudio both in Nashville, TN., with Connor Leimer on vocals, electric guitar, acoustic guitar, classical guitar; Jonny Gleaton on bass guitar; and Jake Finch on drums, percussion, mellotron, synth, guitar, conga. “Like My Mind” formed over an arranged dinner meeting with Nashville-based producer Kyle Dreaden. The two sipped red wine opposite each other on a winter night bonding over a mutual adoration of record-making. The rendezvous was as cordial as it was fruitful. The result: four new songs with the sensible backing band of Jonny Gleaton on bass and Jake Finch on drums. Mastered in Los Angeles, California by GRAMMY® Award-winning mastering engineer Brian Lucey (the Black Keys, Cage The Elephant), Connor’s latest book of songs present a love letter to the eccentric with the aim of encouraging listeners to live as cultured amateurs: like that of a wanderlust youth who dreams of speaking another language fluently on a foreign coast. More info at: http://www.connorleimer.com]

17. Ethan & Charlie G – “Fall So Far”
    from: ”Fall So Far” – Single / Ethan & Charlie G / May 1, 2021
    [Musicians Ethan & Charlie G are a brother sister pair who write, compose, and record original music born from emotion and experience. ” We get on each other’s nerves, but thats just how we say ‘I love you’ There is no one else I would rather write and record with than him.” – Charlie. Ethan became interested in playing guitar at 7 years old when he found his great grandpa’s fender in a closet. He upgraded that old fender to an electric strat gifted to him by his grandpa with the caveat he would practice every day. With that his passion and guitar collection has continued to grow. Ethan’s favorite hobbies include hanging out with friends, disc golf, Madden, cheering for the Chiefs, and playing D-End for his school’s football team. Charlie is known for her big words and big emotions in her most raw form. Poetry and music have been Charlie’s escape from an early age. Some of Charlie’s loves include finding hidden meaning in all the songs she listens to, escaping in a fantasy novel, dot journaling, and snuggling her giant cat Marshall. She does normal stuff too, like homework, chores, babysitting, and texting her friends too much. They released their debut album 13 on January 30, 2021. More information at: http://www.ethanandcharliegmusic.com

18. Kadesh Flow – “Lighten Up”
    from: ”Lighten Up” – Single / Ryan Jamaal Davis / May 7, 2021
    [Kadesh Flow released the new single, “Lighten Up” was written, produced, performed, mixed and mastered: Kadesh Flow. More info at: http://www.kadeshflow.com This is one of 14 new singles Kadesh Flow has released so far this year: Kadesh Flow & The Enclave released, “Soft Side,” on Jan. 21, 2021, written, produced, performed, mixed & mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released, “Assumptions feat. Shubzilla,” on Jan. 29, 2021. Kadesh Flow released, “Frosty,” on February 12, 2021, Written, produced, performed, mixed and mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow & The Enclave released, “Cry For Me 2,” February 12, 2021. Kadesh Flow released, “Not on My Watch,” on February 19, 2021, Inspired by Lord Beerus (Dragonball Super). Kadesh Flow released, “Held Me Longer,” on March 5, 2021, Written, produced, performed, mixed and mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released, “Your Dream Isn’t Always Yours”, on March 12, 2021, Written, produced, performed, mixed and mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow & The Enclave released, “Forgot About Me,” on March 14, 2021. Kadesh Flow released, “Take Backs (feat. Ryan Heinlein)”, on March 26, 2021, Written, produced, performed, mixed and mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow & The Enclave released, “But Hope” on March 26, 2021, Written, produced, performed, mixed & mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released the single, “I Don’t Care” on April 9, 2021. Written, performed, mixed and mastered by Kadesh Flow. Produced by D. Professor. Kadesh Flow released the single, “That Way” on April 16, 2021. Written, performed, mixed and mastered by Kadesh Flow. Produced by Dominique “Bassman” Saunders. Kadesh Flow released the new single, “So Far” on April 23, 2021. Written, performed, mixed and mastered: Kadesh Flow. Produced: Dominique “Bassman” Sanders. Kadesh Flow released the single, “On Target” on April 30, 2021, written, produced, performed, mixed and mastered: Kadesh Flow. More info at: http://www.kadeshflow.com. Kadesh Flow is Ryan Davis is a rapper with an MBA. He is an emcee, producer, & trombonist. At age 11, he began rapping and playing trombone within two weeks of one another. His music has been featured on network television in multiple countries and territories across Southeast Asia. Kadesh performs as a solo hip hop artist. He also plays with The Phantastics, and Marcus Lewis Big Band. Kadesh Flow was on WMM on Oct. 21, 2020.]

[Kadesh Flow plays The Ship with Jessica Paige on May 14.]

19. Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now”
    from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]

Next week on Wednesday, May 19 we welcome special guests: Enrique Chi, Alyssa Murray, and Jillian Riscoe.

Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information.
Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org

Wednesday MidDay Medley in on the web:
http://www.kkfi.org,
http://www.WednesdayMidDayMedley.org,
http://www.facebook.com/WednesdayMidDayMedleyon90.1

Show #889