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, November 30, 2022
2022 – The Year in Music
with: Nick Spacek, Marion Merritt, Chris Haghirian, & Fally Afani
Mark welcomes four special guests who share their Favorite Musical Releases of 2022. Guests include: Nick Spacek – Music Editor for The Pitch KC, Marion Merritt – Owner of Records With Merritt, Chris Haghirian – Host of Eight One Sixty on 90.9 The Bridge, and Fally Afani – Founder & Editor of I Heart Local Music.
- “Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks”
from: Motion Picture Soundtrack to All That Jazz / Universal / Dec. 20, 1979 [WMM’s theme]
Nick Spacek’s Favorite Musical Releases of 2022
5. The Blast Monkeys — Summer Camp / Black-Site / July 18, 2022
- The Blast Monkeys — “Sodie Pop”
from: Summer Camp / The Blast Monkees / July 18, 2022
[The Blast Monkeys are two dudes making music out of Tonganoxie, Kansas. Formed in 2017 by high school best friends, Scott Vick & Kyle Chambers, they plan to make music their career by any means. Their songs fuse high-energy drums and catchy guitar riffs with goofy jokes and a “passionate” stage presence that is sure to win over any crowd. For more info: http://www.theblastmokeys.com. and http://www.theblactmonkees.bandcamp.com
The Blast Monkeys Discography
Summer Camp (9-track Album) / July 18. 2022
“Capo 2.0” (Single) / February 16, 2022
Big Things, Small Places (4-track EP) / August 21, 2021
Washed Out (3-track EP) / December 16, 2019
Moon Juice (5-track EP) / March 25, 2019
10:05 – Interview with Nick Spacek
Nick Spacek is Music Editor at The Pitch. He has been covering music in the Kansas City / Lawrence area, for nearly two decades. He has worked in print and radio media. He is familiar with all facets of the music industry, with a particular interest in the recent vinyl resurgence, as well as music history. Nick covers soundtracks and film scores for Starburst Magazine, and is a freelance writer for Sunflower Publishing. Nick is the co-host of the bi-weekly podcast The Carnage Report. Nick served as Station Manager and Program Director for KJHK 90.7 in Lawrence, and for 20 years worked as a baker at Great Harvest Bread Company in Lawrence. Nick Studied at The University of Kansas and he volunteers for Lawrence Humane Society.
4. Eddie Moore – Intuition / Eddie Moore Music / October 28, 2022
- Eddie Moore – “Jazz Mercenaries (feat. Kemet Coleman)”
from: INTUITION / Eddie Moore Music / October 28, 2022
[From Eddie’s bandcamp page: “Intuition” is Eddie Moore at his best. Crafted with care and love, Moore draws from his vast array of influences over the years and collaborates with his closest friends to bring a bundle of joy to the listener. There is literally something for everyone on this project. His debut album as a solo artist, Moore took the reins as producer, engineer, and multi-instrumentalist. Laying down lush piano, heavy bass, raging synth, and grooves that stick to the ribs. “Intuition” is a unique journey that leaves the listener burning for more. // Eddie Moore released the single, “Love Song” (with Joel Castillo and Bree Cummings) on October 22, 2021. Eddie Moore released “We Chillin’” on April 9, 2021. Eddie Moore’s band We The People released their album MISUNDERSTOOD on September 25, 2020. Eddie Moore is the recipient of the 2016 Charlotte Street Generative Performance Award for his genre bending collaborations. Raised in Houston Texas, he began his musical journey at Texas Southern University where he later earned a Bachelors in Arts and immersed himself in the Houston music scene. Eddie relocated to Kansas City to study under Bobby Watson at the University of Missouri-Kansas City where he received a M.A in Jazz Studies. 2017’s Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art “Artist in Residence” in collaboration with Rashid Johnson. In 2018 his work with The Outer Circle was nominated for an Indie Music Award for “007”. His music has also been featured commercially for Sprint, Netflix’s “Queer Eye”, and Morgan Cooper’s short film “Room Tone”. Moore’ has shared the stage and record with distinctive artist such as Bobby Watson, Pam, Watson, Logan Richardson, Maurice Brown, Boys II Men, Brian Blade and the Fellowship, John Baptiste, Erykah Badu, Mosdef, Bilal, Ledisi, Chantae Cann, Krystal Warren, Matt Otto, Brandon Draper, Andre Hayward, Tivon Pennicott, Various Blonde, Dominique Sanders, 77 Jefferson, and the Marcus Lewis Big Band. We The People released the single, “Single Double” on June 10, 2021. Written & Produced By Eddie Moore with Eddie Moore on keyboards, key bass, & programming; Zach Morrow on drums; and Jason Emmond on bass. Recorded at Tribe Studios. Mixed by Rick Carson at Make Believe Studios. More info at: http://www.wethepeople777.bandcamp.com Eddie Moore joined us live on WMM on September 23, 2020. More info at http://www.eddiemooremusic.com]
3. Bootkrieg – The Power Storm EP / Bootkrieg / June 17, 2022
- Bootkrieg – “Trial & Tribulations”
from: The Power Storm EP / Bootkrieg / June 17, 2022
[Bootkrieg & The Krieg Street Band: N. Krieg on vocals; N. Krieg on guitars; N. Krieg on bass; N. Krieg on bass. ‘Recording Engineer’ / ‘Mix’ / ‘Master’: N. Krieg]
2. Til Willis & Erratic Cowboy – Grinding of The Stars / Til Willis / November 4, 2022
- Til Willis & Erratic Cowboy – “Cold Hum”
from: Grinding of The Stars / Til Willis / November 4, 2022
[Recorded in a 122 year old barn, Grinding of the Stars highlights the band as a trio, stripped down and rugged. It’s the dark twin to their last album, Dirtflowers. Til Willis on guitars & vocals, Eric Binkley on bass, Austin Sinkler on drums. Recorded/Mixed/Produced by Til Willis. Mastered by John Hruska. Cover art by David Huddleston. Til Willis was born in the heat of 1980, and has been making music for a long time. On December 6, 2019 Til Willis & Erratic Cowboy released DIRTFLOWERS. On March 19, 2020 Til Willis & Erratic Cowboy released the 5-song EP CONFIDENTIAL BEDROOM. On June 5, 2020, Til Willis released Live at KVPH, a 13-song release recorded live at Kaw Valley Public House in Lawrence, Kansas on January 25, 2020. On October 30, 2020 Til Willis released SMALL GUARANTEES his 6-track EP collaboration with experimental music-maker Selvedge aka Chance Dibben.]
1. The Bump Band – Our Music / The Bump Band / March 4, 2022
- The Bump Band – “Don’t Lie To Me”
from: Our Music / The Bump Band / March 4, 2022
[Jerald Scott (known as Bump Funk) and his bands were a legend in the Kansas City soul music scene from the late 60’s to the early 80’s electrifying crowds across the country with live performances that rivaled the largest names of the era. From his bands “Bump and the Soul Stompers” to “Unnatural Funk” to “The Bump Band” to the “Bad News Band,” there was one constant…they were bringing the FUNK! When his early bands broke up, it left Bump with a longing to get back on the stage. He loved performing live and energizing crowds so he decided to assemble a new band made of musicians that had his same talents and passions…”The Bump Band.” // The band was comprised of some of the greatest musicians ever assembled. On guitar was Robert “Snookie” Clarkson and Robert Kelly (bass). Herman “Hammer” Lacy was on drums with Terry “Grim” Grimmett on sax and Bump on Keyboards. All of the members provided vocals along with vocalist Wanda Byrd. During their time together, each of the band members put together their song ideas to come up with the album which is why it is titled “Our Music.” // This album was originally recorded in 1983 at Bump Funk Studios but was never released due to various circumstances. The original recordings were lost over time (like most of his music) and recently discovered in Bump’s attic. Bump’s son, Jeremy Scott, let the executives at Lotuspool Records listen to the music and it was undeniable that it had to be shared with the world.
Although the original analog recordings were damaged, the music has been digitally remastered. // This album being released is a dream come true for Bump and the band and a loving tribute to the band members no longer with us (Herman, Terry and Wanda). We hope you enjoy the vibes of an amazing era of soul! “We are The Bump Band…and we’re coming to your town. // Everybody get ready, cause we’re gonna get down!”]
10:29 – Underwriting
Please tune into Wednesday MidDay Medley throughout December as we present our 4-week special: The 120 Best Recordings of 2021 on December 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th.
Marion Merritt’s Favorite Musical Releases of 2022
10:31 – Interview with Marion Merritt
For more than 18 years Marion Merritt has been sharing her musical discoveries and information from her musically encyclopedic brain with the listeners of WMM. 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.
Marion Merritt, Thanks for being with us on WMM
5 – Pino Palladino & Blake Mills – Notes With Attachments / Impulse Records / March 12, 2021 / 2022
- Pino Palladino & Blake Mills – “Just Wrong”
from: Notes With Attachments / Impulse Records / March 12, 2021 / 2022
[Notes with Attachments is an instrumental collaboration between bassist Pino Palladino and guitarist/multi-instrumentalist/producer Blake Mills. Recorded in stages over two and a half years and initially conceived as a solo project for Palladino, the album brings together a shared cohort of musicians from jazz, R&B, pop, and beyond. It also features drummer Chris Dave, keyboardist Larry Goldings, and saxophonists Sam Gendel, Marcus Strickland, and Jacques Scwartz-Bart.]
4. Charles Stepney – Step On Step / International Anthem / September 9, 2022
- Charles Stepney – “Gimme Some Sugar”
from: Step On Step / International Anthem / September 9, 2022
[Charles Stepney (March 26, 1931– May 17, 1976) was an American record producer, arranger, songwriter and musician. Stepney is noted for his work with artists such as The Dells, Ramsey Lewis, Rotary Connection and Earth, Wind & Fire. // He started his musical career as a jazz piano and vibraphone player, and began work for Chess Records as a musician and arranger.[4] In 1966, Charles Stepney and Marshall Chess, son of Chess Records’ co-founder Leonard Chess, created the band Rotary Connection. Stepney went on to produce the group on the Chess vanity label Cadet Concept. These were their 1967 self titled debut album, 1968’s Aladdin and Peace LPs and 1969’s release Songs. He also produced the group’s 1970 album Dinner Music and 1971 LP Hey Love. According to writer Paul Bowler: “The six albums that Rotary Connection recorded under Stepney’s guidance proved revolutionary; a glorious fusion of styles made essential by the simpatico nature of Stepney’s lush string arrangements and [Minnie] Riperton’s multi-octave, quasi-operatic vocals.” // Stepney went on to produce Rotary Connection lead singer Minnie Riperton’s 1970 debut album Come to My Garden. Commenting on Minnie at the time he said that she “has a soprano range of about four octaves, a whole lot of soul, she’s good-looking and she’s got the experience of Rotary behind her.” // During 1970 Stepney also wrote, produced and conducted a Classical Jazz Symphony entitled “Cohesion”. “Cohesion” was performed by the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra, the Ramsey Lewis Trio and Minnie Riperton in Minneapolis, Minnesota. // Stepney worked with a wide range of other performers at Chess. He began producing soul group The Dells on their 1968 album There Is. He later produced the group’s 1969 release Love is Blue and their 1971 LPs Like It Is, Like It Was and Freedom Means. He also worked with blues musicians Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf , and singers Terry Callier, Marlena Shaw, and Deniece Williams, on their albums. He is credited as a musician or producer on albums including The Soulful Strings – Paint It Black (1966) and Groovin’ with the Soulful Strings (1967); Muddy Waters – Electric Mud (1968) and After the Rain (1969); Howlin’ Wolf – The Howlin’ Wolf Album (1969); Marlena Shaw – The Spice of Life (1969); Terry Callier – Occasional Rain (1972), What Color Is Love (1973) and I Just Can’t Help Myself (1974); Phil Upchurch – Upchurch (Cadet, 1969) and The Way I Feel (Cadet, 1970). // Stepney began to collaborate with the Ramsey Lewis Trio as a producer on their 1968 LP Maiden Voyage. The album included the song “Les Fleur” written by Stepney and later recorded by Riperton in 1970. He also arranged on the Trio’s 1968 album Mother Nature’s Son and 1969 LP Another Voyage, and co-produced the 1970 album The Piano Player. // With the Trio was a young drummer named Maurice White who in prior played with Chess Records. White went on to found and lead a new band called Earth, Wind & Fire. Stepney eventually worked as an associate producer on the band’s 1974 release Open Our Eyes. // He then performed on Ramsey Lewis’s 1974 album Sun Goddess and produced his 1975 LP Don’t It Feel Good. Additionally Stepney coproduced with Maurice on Earth, Wind & Fire’s 1975 albums That’s the Way of the World and Gratitude. Stepney then went about coproducing with White on EWF’s 1976 album Spirit, Ramsey Lewis’s 1976 LP Salongo, The Emotions 1976 album Flowers and Deniece Williams’s 1976 LP This Is Niecy.]
3. Adrian Quesada – Boleros Psicodélicos / Anti / February 21, 2012 / 2022 Reissue
- Adrian Quesada – “Mentiras Con Cariño (feat. ILE)”
from: Boleros Psicodélicos/ Anti / February 21, 2012 / 2022 Reissue
[Adrian Quesada is an American musician, producer, and songwriter. A Grammy Award-usic map.” // In late 2017, on the recommendation of a friend, Quesada contacted Eric Burton to sing on instrumentals he had recorded. They formed Black Pumas shortly after their first meeting, and released their self-titled debut in June 2019. Critically acclaimed, they were nominated for the Best New Artist Grammy four months after their first album was released. A deluxe version of their debut and a live album were subsequently released; as of 2022 the Black Pumas had received six Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year. They played more than 60 live shows prior to and after the COVID-19 pandemic and, in addition to other television shows, they appeared on Austin City Limits, the Grammy Awards telecast, Late Show with Stephen Colbert and Celebrating America, the concert following the Biden inauguration.In early 2022, inspired by the Latin American psychedelic ballads of the sixties and seventies, Quesada recorded Boleros Psicodélicos. Set for release in June, iLe, Gabriel Garzón-Montano, Girl Ultra and Marc Ribot are featured on the record, which includes classic balada music as well as Quesada’s original compositions.[9] Rolling Stone’s Ernesto Lechner wrote that with its “remarkable intensity and a mind-boggling attention to detail”, the album “promised to be one of 2022’s most gorgeous releases”. The first single from the album, “Mentiras con Cariño” (featuring iLe), was released in March 2022. It was Quesada’s first solo single.v// Well-known as a producer, Quesada works out of his Austin studio, Electric Deluxe. In addition the Black Pumas records, he has more than 150 production credits, including Look at My Soul: The Latin Shade of Texas Soul, his collection of original songs and re-recordings of Chicano soul classics.]
2. Kokoroko – Could We Be More / Brownswood / August 2022
- Kokoroko – “Ewà Inú”
from: Could We Be More / Brownswood / August 2022
[Kokoroko is a London-based eight-piece musical group led by Sheila Maurice-Grey, playing a fusion of jazz and Afrobeat. In February 2019 they were named “ones to watch” by the Guardian, after their track “Abusey Junction” garnered 23 million views on YouTube. In February 2020 they won Best Group at the Urban Music Awards. In September 2020 they played BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall. // They released their debut album COULD WE BE MORE, in August 2022.]
1. Cleveland Francis – Beyond the Willow Tree / Forager Records / June 15, 2022
- Cleveland Francis – “Hot Sun”
from: Beyond the Willow Tree / Forager Records / June 15, 2022
[Beyond The Willow Tree is a hauntingly beautiful anthology of folk songs chronicling the experience of a young black man growing up in the segregated south. A balanced mix of covers and originals, Cleveland Francis’ body of work seamlessly blends deep, soulful vocals with the stripped down acoustic instrumentation of folk. In the late 60’s Francis coined the term “soulfolk”, playing his genre bending music across college campuses and coffee shops while earning a medical degree at William & Mary. // These songs serve as a missing link between soul and folk music, suppressed by the harsh political landscape of a music industry heavily influenced by racial stereotypes. “If you were black, you played blues or soul music … I wanted to play folk music,” Cleveland professed. // Included in this double LP set is Cleveland Francis’ entire 1970 self released album Follow Me, featuring the original artwork and liner notes printed inside the gatefold. The second LP takes you Beyond The Willow Tree with unreleased demos recorded in 1968 along with one 45 only single recorded in 1970. // “These recordings are a look into my soul through a long and lonely journey to understand feelings of my childhood, poverty, racial segregation, bigotry, war, love and hope. It represents my attempt to express and come to terms with all that I have seen and felt as a Black man growing up in America.” – Cleveland Francis]
11:00 – Station ID
Please tune into Wednesday MidDay Medley throughout December as we present our 4-week special: The 120 Best Recordings of 2022 on December 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th.
11:00 – Interview with Chris Haghirian
Chris Haghirian shares his passion for the KC music community as host of Eight One Sixty, heard Tuesday nights at 6:00 pm, on 90.9 The Bridge, just a few clicks up the dial. Chris worked for The KC Star for over 20 years. Chris organizes music for, Boulevardia, The Plaza Art Fair, and other music festivals and venues. With Nathan Reusch of The Record Machine, Chris created The Middle of The Map Fest.
Chris Haghirian’s Favorite Musical Releases of 2022
5. Flare Tha Rebel – Summer You, Summer Me / Shafer / October 21, 2022
- Flare Tha Rebel – “Playground (feat. The Belief Cycle & Leigh Adams)” (CD #12) (2:42)
from: Summer You, Summer Me. / Shafer / October 21, 2022
[“Rosé All Day” was the lead single from Flare Tha Rebel’s new EP. Playful, yet meaningful, the song is about an empowered woman of which a man is pursuing. Lines within the song such as “and if she’s a tease she can do that ya’ll / she don’t owe you nothing man, please back off”, attempt to change the at times degrading scenarios of this power dynamic. The narrative is done in the backdrop of fun and lighthearted warm weather days, cool summernights, and, of course, plenty of rosé. Continuing with Flare’s Art to Empower initiative, “Rosé All Day” aims to raise funds and awareness for a nonprofit, which this time is the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Abuse (MOCSA). Career and love brought hip-hop MC Flare Tha Rebel back to his hometown of Kansas City, MO, which created a second wind of new music. Noted by The Pitch, “As a member of hip-hop collective Anti-Crew, Flare Tha Rebel made quite an impact on the Kansas City hip-hop scene. After making the leap from KC to Chicago in the late ‘00s, he’s now back…” Known for a highly energetic live performance, Flare has shared the stage with artists such as Chance the Rapper, RZA of Wu-Tang Clan, Mac Lethal, Nappy Roots, and CES Cru. Although hip-hop at the core, Flare Tha Rebel’s versatility remains as he balances music with socially progressive themes that are still enjoyable enough to raise a glass to at a party. There’s also a duality to Flare’s approach. Many of his songs are connected to his Art to Empower initiative, raising awareness and funds for a variety of social justice causes and nonprofits. Flare Tha Rebel & Bob Pullian were guests on WMM, Aug. 11, 2021. Flare The Rebel released the EP, The Revolution Will Not Be Hashtagged on July 9, 2021. The recording was #9 on WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2021. Info at: http://www.flaretharebel.com]
4. Hembree & morgyn – “Float“ – Single / Oread Records / September 9, 2022
- Hembree & morgyn – “Float”
from: “Float“ – Single / Oread Records / September 9, 2022
[morgxn is a homosensitive musical artist based in Nashville. Along with this single Hambree released the 13-track album, IT’S A DREAM! On Oread Records on February 4, 2022. Hembree is a KC born band was formed in November of 2015, with Isaac Flynn on guitar, & lead vocals, Garrett Childers on bass & vocals, Eric Davis on keys & synth, Alex Ward on guitar, and Austin Ward on drums. Hembree is signed to Thirty Tigers of Nashville, TN. The band was founded by original members Isaac Flynn, Garrett Childers, and Eric Davis. Brothers Alex and Austin Ward later joined in 2018. Hembree quickly garnered national attention after their single “Holy Water” was placed in an Apple commercial that aired during Super Bowl LII. The band’s music has been featured in a variety of other national placements, including Monday Night Football (NFL) and Bose. Hembree has notably supported Elvis Costello, Phoenix, Cold War Kids, Vance Joy, JR JR, and Joywave, among others. The band first toured Europe in Fall 2018. In 2018, Hembree signed with Thirty Tigers to release their first full-length album House on Fire, released 4/26/2019. In 2019, Hembree performed at Hangout Music Festival. They will also appear on the soundtrack of 13 Reasons Why: Season 3 with the song “Culture”. Hembree was named one of NPR’s Slingshot 2018 Artists to Watch. Rolling Stone named Hembree as one of the thirty best artists at SXSW 2018. “Had It All” debuted on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 on January 19, 2017. Lowe described the song as “absolutely fantastic.” “Holy Water” was featured in Apple’s HomePod “Distortion” TV spot, which ran during Super Bowl LII, the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, and the 2018 Winter Olympics. Hembree released the single, “Reach Out” on July 20, 2021 and “Operators (feat. Bodye)” on Sept. 21, 2021on Oread Records. Info at: http://www.hembreemusic.com]
3. Six Percent – Death of Yesterday / Six Percent / September 23, 2022
- Six Percent – “Passages”
from: Death of Yesterday / Six Percent / September 23, 2022
[Produced, Engineered and Mixed by Josh Barber. Music and Lyrics by Six Percent. Mastered by Drew Lavyne. Recorded at B24 Studios. Six Percent is an American punk rock band formed in 1995, in Kansas City, Missouri. Since it’s inception, the band has had regional success, blending their unique sound of punk rock and horns with high-energy live performances. There have been various member changes over the years, but the core remains the same today.]
2. BLACKSTARKIDS – CYBERKISS / Dirty Hit / September 23, 2022
- BLACKSTARKIDS – “CYBERKISS 2 U”
from: CYBERKISS / Dirty Hit / September 23, 2022
[From the band’s new fifth album, and their third with Dirty Hit Records, all in the last 4 years. Blackstarkids are phenomenon who came out of Kansas City in 2020 became the soundtrack for the summer. Blackstarkids are a pop/R&B/hip-hop trio based in Kansas City, Missouri. Members include: TheBabeGabe, Deiondre, and TyFaizon (of the Drop Dead XX collective). The members have known each other since high school in Raytown, Missouri. Members met at Raytown South High School and formed the band in 2019. The group released its first album, Let’s Play Sports, on August 1, 2019. Blackstarkids then released their second album SURF through their own label Bedroom Records on February 28, 2020. Blackstarkids caught the attention of The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy and were then signed to The 1975’s management company and UK-based label Dirty Hit Records. They were featured in Clash Magazine. Blackstarkids then released, Surf Basement Demos on Dirty Hit Records on March 5, 2020. On October 29, 2020, Blackstarkids released Whatever, Man on Dirty Hit Records, their third album release of 2020. Gabe, of Blackstarkids recently described the KC Music community to an interviewer, “The music scene here is really nice. There are a lot of bands who are super talented and do all types of genres. The jazz music here is really great as well. Kansas City is honestly a hidden gem when it comes to music. I feel like you can meet an artist anywhere and anyplace in this city.” Deiondre added, “The music scene here is getting cool now, there’s a lot of jazz musicians that go to school for music here too but you can find people from different scenes all over if around the city.” Ty wrote, “The Kansas City scene is great, the community here is so supportive and genuine. This is a really prideful city here and I think they’re finally getting the musicians they deserve.”]
[Blackstarkids are scheduled to play Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco on Nov. 29, 2022.]
1. LYXE – Everything You Could Ever Want / LYXE / September 15, 2022
- LYXE – “I Got Everything”
from: Everything You CouldEver Want / LYXE / September 15, 2022
[LYXE is a new band from Lawrence, Kansas, formed in 2019 that played locally until Covid forced the band into a two year hiatus. Recently reformed, the band has had a successful string of shows in 2022 and released their first EP, Everything You Could Ever Want on September 15, 2022. Lead by frontman Ryan Wise of The Sluts, the debut single “Wave” showcases the band’s fun pop rock sensibility. We experience a different side of Wise’s songwriting with crooning vocals and vintage guitar sounds. Accompanied by drummer Jimmy Girod and bassist AJ Knudson, LYXE creates hip shaking rhythms reminiscent of classic 80’s and 90’s sounds.“Wave” is the ideal first taste of what this band can accomplish. ]
11:28 – Underwriting
Fally Afani’s Favorite Musical Releases of 2022
5. Cuee – Coming Out (3-song – Single) / Cuee / June 24, 2022
- Cuee – “Man Now”
from: Coming Out (3-song – Single) / Cuee / June 24, 2022
[Lawrence based hip-hop artist Cuee is a rapper with a Master’s Degree. Cuee received his Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration from the University of Kansas. Cuee is also a graduate of Artist Inc. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Cuee has wowed audiences in Lawrence and KC with exciting live performances. And since 2017 Cue has released several critically acclaimed albums, an EP, multiple singles. We last talked with Cuee on March 3, 2021 and on May 5, 2021 and before that, on August 12, 2020, when he released the single “Who’s Back.” and before that on May 29, 2019. Cuee released the single: “Ain’t Goin Backon May 7, 2021, “Gravity (Feat: Lindsey Alderman)” on April 29, 2021 and part of GOSPEL the album. In 2020 Cuee’ track, “Shook” landed on an official Spotify playlist dedicated to transgender, non-binary and gender-fluid musicians across the globe including Kim Petras and Lex Allen. Spotify sent out a note said, “Hey Cuee you hit a high note this month.” Cuee said he didn’t even know what that meant, and he looked up to discover he had over 24,000 listener during the month of June on Spotify. I was trying to figure out what happened. I did a little research, I logged onto my instagram account, I was starting to get a flood of followers. I was just tracing it back and I landed on a Spotify playlist, it was an editorial playlist so he couldn’t find out who put him on there. “Someone found me.” Cuee made three trips home to Chicago to record the record. For the new album GOSPEL Cuee explained that this term can have biblical connections but it also means ‘the truth.” The video for “Ain’t Going Back” takes place in a church, and is a declaration of freedom, and identity, while also paying respect. Cuee talked us about how the track was created in the studio and translating the song into a video that was shot in a church. Last time we talked with Cuee he shared his thoughts about ‘”Queerness in a church,” Cuee said, “you know, is very…different, I mean I wanted to bring that into that space, and freedom into that space, allow that space to be seen and heard by other people who traditionally wont take up that space.” Originally from Chicago, Illinois. 27 year old Lawrence based hip-hop artist emcee, and educator. Cuee has gained fans over the last six years in Lawrence and Kansas City for his critically acclaimed musical releases and live performances. Along with getting his Master’s Degree, Cuee has released around 30 different musical tracks, legally changed his name, and has transitioned physically and vocally. The song “Ain’t Going Back” features Cuee’s friend Joel Leoj who is originally from Florida, but after moving to Chicago, became friends with Cuee in school, and recently moved to Lawrence to make music and collaborate on recordings with Cuee. Cuee explained that they have known each other since high school, that they “started a Hip Hop culture club in our high school, to bring music, kinda having a place to chill after school, write music together as a community. That’s how we started.” “I moved out here to Kansas, to go to school, he stayed back in Miami, and then we kind of connected back, maybe about two years ago, and hit it off really strong. We decided we wanted to pursue this music thing together. We decided let’s just do this. So he said he was going to move to Lawrence. I didn’t believe him at first, until he showed up on my doorstep, and I was like, Wow, you are here, let’s do this.” Joel Leoj released the album, JOEY IN WONDERLAND on January 31, 2021. Cuee is a featured guest emcee on the tracks “Eden” and “No Debate.” More info at: http://www.officialcuee.com]
10:32 – Interview with Fally Afani
Fally Afani is an award-winning journalist with a career spanning over 20 years in media. She has worked extensively in radio, television, newspapers, and magazines. She has received several Kansas Association of Broadcasters awards as well as an Edward R. Murrow award for her online work in journalism. Fally lives in Lawrence, Kansas, where she reports on local & touring musicians and is the editor & founder of, I Heart Local Music a comprehensive website providing info and place for music lovers in Lawrence to gather. It was started out of a deep love & appreciation for the local music scene. And has grown to produce a quarterly printed magazine. Info at: http://www.iheartlocalmusic.com
Fally Afani, Thank you for being with us in Wednesday MidDay Medley.
4. Flash Floods – “I Don’t Wanna Know” – Single / Flash Floods / August 26, 2022
- Flash Floods – “I Don’t Wanna Know”
from: “I Don’t Wanna Know” – Single / Flash Floods / August 26, 2022
[Fally Afani writes in I Heart Local Music “One of our favorite acts to watch in 2022 is ending it in style. After releasing the very catchy “I Don’t Wanna Know,” Flash Floods has just leaked a second track off their upcoming release called “Don’t Take Advice.” // Additionally, they have a big album release show planned for the end of the month at the Bottleneck. On December 23rd, the trio will perform alongside Christina Graves and Tyler Gregory for an ugly sweater party. If you’re looking for a little holiday jamboree with the self-proclaimed “y’allternative” band, this is it. // Flash Floods has consistently been one of I Heart Local Music’s favorite live acts over the past year. Their live presence is peppy and entirely likable, a bit of a stark contrast from the laid back and good-natured demeanor of their sound. In a world of noise and rising tensions, Flash Floods is the calming breath we need in our day.]
[Flash Floods play an Album Release show Friday, December 23rd, at The Bottleneck.]
3. Carswell & Hope – Sign Of The Times / Silly Goose Records / August 30, 2022
- Carswell & Hope – “Lo/Behold”
from: Sign Of The Times / Silly Goose Records / August 30, 2022
[Recorded and produced by Jason Slote and Nick Carswell. Mixed and mastered by Joel Nanos at Element Recording Studios. Lawrence KS based 5-piece band formed June 25, 2012. The band is: Nick Carswell, Jason Slote, Austin Quick, Chris Handley, and Jordan Tucker. Songwriter Nick Carswell is originally from Ireland and has found a new home on the plains of Kansas.Songwriter Nick Carswell is originally from Limerick, Ireland, Nick Carswell has been living in Lawrence, KS since 2011. He formed Carswell & Hope in late 2012. The band released their debut album in 2014, coinciding with a two week Irish tour. Nick also plays bass in the electro-pop band Pink Royal and is the force behind Silly Goose Records and the annual MixMaster music conference, now part of the Crossroads Music Festival. More info at: http://www.carswellandhope.bandcamp.com]
[Carswell and Hope play a Holiday Show at Liberty Hall on December 9, 2022]
2. Serene Fiend – Elegies and Effigies / Joel Bonner / August 25, 2022
- Serene Fiend – “Unto Myself”
from: Elegies and Effigies / Joel Bonner / August 25, 2022
[Serene Fiend is an artist from Lawrence, KS whose sounds focus on industrial and pop but dabble in heavy metal, ambient, and minimalist sub-genres. // Serene Fiend’s long overdue first full-length album, Elegies and Effigies exists on a continuum ranging from industrial to pop with sprinkles of death metal and glam mixed in – “industrial death pop” for short. // The track list explores topics of introspection, self-destruction, grief, resilience, and self-betterment. Over its course, the album references itself melodically and lyrically through motifs and evolving context, benefiting repeat listens and granular focus. It is a bleak album, but centers around a thread of hope and optimism. // Written, performed, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Joel Bonner. // Synthesizer solo on “Unto Myself” written and performed by Daniel Glascock. // Guitar solo on “Don’t Want To Die” written and performed by Sam Piper. // “Something About Us” originally written and recorded by Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo // Artwork by Joel Bonner . Info at http://www.serenefiend.bandcamp.com]
1. LYXE – Everything You Could Ever Want / LYXE / September 15, 2022
- LYXE – “Wave”
from: Everything You Could Ever Want / LYXE / September 15, 2022
[LYXE is a new band from Lawrence, Kansas, formed in 2019 that played locally until Covid forced the band into a two year hiatus. Recently reformed, the band has had a successful string of shows in 2022 and released their first EP, Everything You Could Ever Want on September 15, 2022. Lead by frontman Ryan Wise of The Sluts, the debut single “Wave” showcases the band’s fun pop rock sensibility. We experience a different side of Wise’s songwriting with crooning vocals and vintage guitar sounds. Accompanied by drummer Jimmy Girod and bassist AJ Knudson, LYXE creates hip shaking rhythms reminiscent of classic 80’s and 90’s sounds.“Wave” is the ideal first taste of what this band can accomplish. ]
- Noel Coward – “The Party’s Over Now”
from: Noel Coward in New York / drg / 2003 [orig. 1957]
NEXT WEEK, on December 7, we begin our 4-week series: WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022 December 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th. This is our celebration of the year in music based on the playlists of this little ole radio show.
Thank you to ALL of those who donated to Wednesday MidDay Medley during of KKFI 90.1 FM Fall Fund Drive!!! Between our two on-air shows, and our Facebook Fundraiser, we have raised a grand total of $3041.00 from 50 individual donors!!! THANK YOU!
Our Script/Playlist is a “cut and paste” of information.
Sources for notes: artist’s websites, bios, wikipedia.org
Find our playlists for the past 10 years at: http://www.WednesdayMidDayMedley.org
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Show #970
Wednesday MidDay Medley 