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, December 11, 2024

The 120 Best Recordings of 2024
(Part 2 of 4)

Wednesday MidDay Medley presents part-two, of our four-week special: WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2024. Based on playlists of this little ole radio show, we’ve compiled representative tracks from our favorite full-length albums and EP recordings of 2024. We realize these “Best of” lists can seem subjective, so we ask that you please accept our list as a celebration of the year in music.

In 2024 we’ve broadcast nearly 900 different tracks on WMM over our 100,000 watts of 90.1 FM Community Radio Airwaves. Over 500 of these tracks were from New & MidCoastal Releases. 60 of the representative tracks in our “Best of” list are from MidCoastal Releases. We conducted over 118 interviews with 141 special guests. 40 of the bands and artists in our “Best of” list have joined us as guests on WMM.

Tune into Wednesday MidDay Medley throughout December for our 4-week series: The 120 Best Recordings of 2024, on December 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th. This is our celebration of the year when we were able to survey over 1200 area musical releases.

We’ll count down #90 through #61 with tracks from: Making Movies, St. George & The Dragons, Peter Schlamb & Logan Richardson, Back Alley Brass Band, Doubledrag, Burning Bush, Grady Philip Drugg, The Matchsellers, Big Fat Cow, Danielle Ate the Sandwich, Belle & The Vertigo Waves, Leah Sproul, June Henry, Honeybee, Eboni Fondren, Erin Keller & The James Ward Band, Kim Gordon, St. Vincent, Gossip, Valerie June, Tyla, Andre 3000, Lola Young, Kaia Kater, Joy Oladokun, Alan Sparhawk, Willi Carlisle, Kamasi Washington, Etran de L’AÏr, and Bolis Pupul.

1. “Main Title Instrumental – It’s Showtime Folks”
   from: Motion Picture Soundtrack to All That Jazz / Universal / Dec. 20, 1979
   [WMM’s theme]

2. (#90.) André 3000 – “Ninety Three ‘Til Infinity And Beyoncé”
   from: New Blue Sun / Epic Records / November 17, 2023 (3-LP Vinyl Release Mar. 22, 2024) 
   Debut solo album by American musician André 3000. It features instrumental contributions by an ensemble including Benjamin on various flutes, percussionist and producer Carlos Niño, keyboardist Surya Botofasina, guitarist Nate Mercereau, and keyboardist Diego Gaeta; as well as Leaving Records musicians V.C.R and Matthewdavid. The album represents an end to the musicians’s 17-year hiatus of new material. // In the years leading up to the release of New Blue Sun, Benjamin made media appearances playing flute in public settings; this was especially amplified online by his appearance as a flautist on the score for the Daniels’ 2022 film Everything Everywhere All at Once. He would later meet with jazz musician Carlos Niño in Los Angeles, where the two agreed to create a studio album. Ahead of its announcement, fellow rapper Killer Mike teased an impending release by André 3000. // As his first solo studio release, and the first studio material of his in a significant period of time, the 87-minute album largely consists of “experimental flute music” with both acoustic and electronic instrumentation, influenced by spiritual jazz musicians and minimalist composers. It features “a myriad” of different flutes performed by Benjamin in various styles across eight instrumental pieces. // When announcing the album on November 14, 2023, Benjamin emphasized that the project is not “a rap record”, with the packaging displaying a lighthearted disclaimer that it contains “no bars”;[6] he has additionally dismissed rumors that he was “sitting around on rap albums” that he has been characterized as refusing to release, saying instead that he felt more comfortable with the direction indicated by New Blue Sun. //The album was originally titled Everything Is Too Loud, but was renamed because André 3000 felt that it put out negative energy. // André Lauren Benjamin was born May 27, 1975, and better known as André 3000, is an American rapper, singer, musician, songwriter, record producer, and actor. Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, he is best known for being one-half of the Southern hip hop duo Outkast, alongside fellow Atlanta-based rapper Big Boi. Benjamin is widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time. // As part of Outkast, the duo released six successful studio albums which contained hit singles including “Ms. Jackson”, “Roses”, “So Fresh, So Clean” and “Elevators (Me & You)”, among others. The duo’s fifth release, a double album titled Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003), contained a solo single performed by Benjamin: “Hey Ya!”, which peaked the Billboard Hot 100 and received a Grammy Award for Best Urban/Alternative Performance. After the duo split in 2007, Benjamin became less active as a solo act compared to Big Boi, although he had a number of highly-acclaimed guest appearances on songs and albums by numerous artists. Such activity earned him an additional Grammy Award among seven nominations as a solo artist. In 2023, Benjamin released his debut studio album New Blue Sun, an instrumental recording showcasing his performances on flute. // Outside of music, Benjamin has acted in films and television series such as Families, The Shield, Be Cool, Revolver, Semi-Pro, High Life, Four Brothers, and in the lead role of Jimi Hendrix in All Is by My Side. He further played Fredwynn on the AMC series Dispatches from Elsewhere, and was featured in the 2022 adaptation of the Don DeLillo novel of White Noise.]

[Mark’s note: I saw OutKast when they opened for Lauryn Hill on her Miseducation Tour at The Midland Theatre in Kansas City on February 26, 1999. 30 feet above the main floor seating area of The Midland was a giant cloud that remained thoughout OutKast’s set that featured new songs that would end up on Stankonia, OutKast’s 4th studio album, including the song “Ms. Jackson.” ]

3. (#89) Joy Oladokun – “I’d Miss The Birds”
   from: Observations From A Crowded Room / Amigo Records – Verve Forecast / Oct. 18, 2024
   [Joy Iladokun released Proof of Life her 4th studio album on April 28, 2024. The album was supported by five singles released throughout 2022 & 2023. The album features guest appearances from Mt. Joy, Manchester Orchestra, Chris Stapleton, Maxo Kream, and Noah Kahan. In a press release about the album, Oladokun said that she intended for the songs on Proof of Life to be “helpful anthems” and to resonate with “anybody who feels normal and needs a little musical boost to get through the day”. The first single, “Keeping the Light On”, was released on January 21, 2022. The second single, “Sweet Symphony” (featuring Chris Stapleton), was released on September 23, 2022. Of the song, Oladokun said that the song was about “the vulnerability, the fear, and the ups and downs that come from loving someone.” The third single, “Changes”, was released on February 17, 2023, simultaneously with the album announcement. The fourth single, “We’re All Gonna Die” (with Noah Kahan), was released March 17, 2023. The 5th and final single, “Taking Things for Granted”, was released on April 21, 2023. // Joy Oladokun was born April 6, 1992, she is an American singer-songwriter. Oladokun’s music spans the genres of folk, R&B, rock, and pop and is influenced by her identity as a queer woman of color. Oladokun grew up in Casa Grande, Arizona, listening to country and folk music, as well as Bob Marley and Lauryn Hill. Both of her parents are Nigerian immigrants to the United States. Her family regularly attended a Christian church, where Oladokun was chosen to lead worship. Later, Oladokun left the church because it limited her creativity. // When Oladokun was 10, a video of Tracy Chapman inspired her to learn guitar.// After college, at a friend’s suggestion, Oladokun moved to Los Angeles to pursue her music career. She later moved to East Nashville, where she signed with Prescription Songs. She has released three studio albums. In 2015, Joy Oladokun self-released her debut EP Cathedrals. Her debut studio album, Carry Me was funded by Kickstarter and released on April 29, 2016 through Well Records. // Oladokun released the single “Sunday” in 2019, saying “‘Sunday’ is the song that 12-year-old Joy, seated in the back of church youth group, needed to hear. She needed to hear that you can be queer and happy. Queer and healthy. Queer and holy. She needed to see married women kissing and playing with their kids.” The music video highlights people in LGBTQ relation-ships and has a predominantly queer cast. // Oladokun’s song “Mercy” follows in the same theme, describing her experience as a Black person in the United States, while the single “I See America” criticizes systemic racism. NPR listed “I See America” on its 100 Best Songs of 2020. // On July 17, 2020, Oladokun released her 2nd studio album, In Defense of My Own Happiness (Vol. 1). Billboard described the album as a “stunningly emotional collection.” Mitch Mosk, editor-in-chief of Atwood Mag., called it a “a sweeping, soaring, and stunning sophomore record oozing heart and soul.” // In 2021, Oladokun received a grant from YouTube’s “#YouTubeBlack Voices Fund”. The same year she signed with Amigo Records, Verve Forecast Records, & Republics. http://www.joyoladokun.com Oladokun played The Truman on Sept. 12, 2024]

4. (#88.) Yola Young – “Messy”
   from: This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway / A Day One – Island records / June 21, 2024
   [Yola Young began writing her own songs at age 11. She attended the Brit School (famed alumni including Adele, Amy Winehouse, Loyle Carner and Raye) after which she briefly attempted a “proper” job, working at an ice cream shop. She built a following through open mic nights, small London pubs and venues, where labels began showing up. Signed to Island aged 18 and has released a succession of singles and EPs, including a couple songs in collaboration with Grammy-winning producer Paul Epworth (Adele, Florence and the Machine). Her songs a reflection of the often-wonky Gen Z experience, a world of weed, booze, infidelity, job insecurity, self-loathing, mental health struggles, the hazards of the digital era and a bit more weed.]

5. (#87.) Etran de L’AÏr – “Erkazamane”
   from: 100% Sahara Guitar / Sahel Sounds / September 13, 2024
   [Etran de L’Aïr is a Nigerien rock band from Agadez, Niger. The band is currently signed to Sahel Sounds. The group has released two albums, No. ] in 2018 and Agadez in 2022. The groups’ first album, No. 1, was named the number one album of the year by Amanda Petrusich of The New Yorker. Both albums by the band have received positive reviews. Discography: No. 1 (2018, Sahel Sounds) // Agadez (2022, Sahel Sounds) ]

6. (#86.) Peter Schlamb – “Fairway (feat. Logan Richardson)”
   from: Pliable Consciousness / Peter Schlamb / February 23, 2024
   [From Aug. 11, 2024 edition of Plastic San, by Bill Brownlee: “The jazz community in KC is a victim of negligence. Although released in February, Plastic Sax only recently stumbled upon Pliable Consciousness, the latest from Peter Schlamb. The excellence of the 22-minute recording compounds the oversight. // The vibra-phonist, composer & bandleader has perfected the distinctive approach first documented on Tinks (2014). The production of Pliable Consciousness is crisper and with Hermon Mehari, Mike Moreno & Logan Richardson are even more inspiring. // Schlamb has long been indifferent to self-promotion. Even so, managing to keep the superlative Pliable Consciousness a secret is a feat. The fact that Pliable Consciousness hasn’t received a smidgen of notice elsewhere doesn’t excuse Plastic Sax’s failure to keep tabs on one of KC’s preeminent artists. I apologize.”]

7. (#85.) Kamasi Washington – “The Visionary (feat. Terrace Martin)”
   from: Fearless Movement / Young Records / May 3, 2024
   [Kamasi was born in LA California, on February 2, 1981 to musical parents and educators, and was raised in Inglewood, California. He is an American jazz saxophonist, composer, producer, and bandleader. Washington is known mainly for playing tenor saxophone. He is a graduate of the Academy of Music of Alexander Hamilton High School in Beverlywood, Los Angeles. Washington next enrolled in UCLA’s Department of Ethnomusicology, where he began playing with faculty members such as Kenny Burrell, Billy Higgins and band leader/trumpeter Gerald Wilson. Washington features in the album Young Jazz Giants in 2004. He has played along with a diverse group of musicians including Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Horace Tapscott, Gerald Wilson, Lauryn Hill, Nas, Snoop Dogg, George Duke, Chaka Khan, Flying Lotus, Thundercat, Mike Muir, Francisco Aguabella, the Pan Afrikaan People’s Orchestra and Raphael Saadiq. Washington ventured into big band music when he joined the Gerald Wilson Orchestra for their 2006 album In My Time. Washington played saxophone on Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly. His debut solo recording, The Epic, was released in May 2015 to critical acclaim. His second studio album, Heaven and Earth, was released in June 2018, with a companion EP titled The Choice released a week later. // Turning his attention to dance for his latest album, Fearless Movement out this May on Young, Kamasi Washington resumes his ongoing study of music as a means of connection. His 2015 album The Epic, as well as 2018’s Heaven and Earth were received by critics and audiences as a reimagination of modern jazz showcasing Washington’s larger-than-lift compositions full of celestial grandeur and his distinct blend of jazz, Latin, funk, classical, hip-hop and soul. Fearless Movement, however, offers something different: terrestrial rhythms and collaborations from rappers, musical icons and even Washington’s own daughter. Features include: Thundercat, Taj Austin, Ras Austin, Patrice Quinn, DJ Battlecat, Brandon Coleman, D-Smoke, George Clinton, Bj the Chicago Kid, Andre 300]

8.(#84.) Alan Sparhawk – “Can U Hear” 
from: White Roses, My God / Sub Pop Records / September 27, 2024
[White Roses, My God is the upcoming second solo album by former Low guitarist/vocalist Alan Sparhawk, set for release on September 27, 2024, by Sub Pop. It is Sparhawk’s first album since the death of his wife and bandmate, Mimi Parker, and the subsequent end of their band. Sparhawk began recording for the album in late 2023. // White Roses, My God is Sparhawk’s first album since his wife and Low bandmate Mimi Parker died of ovarian cancer in 2022, and the subsequent retirement of the band. Encouraged by his friend, Lambchop’s Kurt Wagner, Sparhawk returned to live performances. He played shows with his and Parker’s daughter Hollis, opened for Lambchop and Godspeed You! Black Emperor, and played a solo set at Utrecht music festival Le Guess Who? 2023. Low had cancelled their headling set at the 2022 edition of Le Guess Who? due to Parker’s health, and she died a week before the festival. // Sparhawk also started recording around the same time, and started two new groups: punk funk band Derecho Rhythm Section, and funky electronic duo Damien with his and Parker’s son Cyrus. A second solo album, a collaborative project with Duluth, Minnesota, folk band Trampled by Turtles, began during that time. // Sparhawk first mentioned White Roses, My God in an interview with The New Yorker’s Justin Taylor, published April 11, 2024. At the time, he said the album would be released in late 2024. Sparhawk later shared on Low’s Twitter account that the album would be released by Sub Pop in “late September”, and that its first song would be released in July. // The album was officially announced on July 16, with a release date set for September 27 by Sub Pop. The lead single, “Can U Hear”, was released the same day, accompanied by a music video directed by Rick Alverson. The song is electronic and “near-industrial”. // The second single, “Get Still”, was released on August 20, accompanied by a music video directed by Ingrid Weise. Like “Can U Hear”, “Get Still” consists of electronic instrumentation, with Sparhawk’s “voice so heavily Auto-Tuned that it no longer sounds recognizably human.” // When asked on Twitter about the album name’s significance, Sparhawk said “Mim loved roses, and sometimes I think she is God.” // The album was recorded at 20 Below Studios in Duluth, Minnesota. Sparhawk produced and recorded along with Nat Harvie, who also mixed the album, and Heba Kadry mastered it. On these recordings, Sparhawk said he “was messing with this rigid stuff. There were moments where it would quickly become very visceral, very spontaneous. You’ve created the structure for it to happen and come through you, but you’re trusting the universe about what is going to come in.” Those recordings included him experimenting with improvising guitar and pitch-shifted vocals over a preset synthesizer clocked to a drum machine. // Stylistically, White Roses, My God follows Low’s last two albums, 2018’s Double Negative and 2021’s Hey What, in applying layers of distortion over otherwise-straightforward songwriting. Going further down that route, Sparhawk included synthesizers, drum machines, dance beats, and pitch-shifted vocals. All of the album’s vocals were recorded with a vocoder. Influences included Prince’s alter ego Camille and Neil Young’s album Trans. // All tracks are written by Alan Sparhawk.]

10:28:30 – Underwriting

9. (#83) Bolis Pupul – “Goodnight Mr. Yi”
   from: Letter To Yu / DEEWEE – Because Music / March 8, 2024
   [Bolis Pupul’s debut solo album touches upon some of life’s big themes – memory, loss, family and coming to terms and making peace with all of that – the album is a resounding audio triumph. It reconciles the competing sonic strands that make up Bolis’ aesthetic – his European and Asian roots, alongside the overarching presence of the twin American pillars of Detroit techno and Chicago house – in a manner that is pleasingly familiar and creatively inventive. // It’s no coincidence that Bolis Pupul’s music sounds the way it does. Born in Belgium to a Chinese mother, Belgian father, raised in the creative city of Ghent, Bolis’ music is a joyous cross-cultural assemblage. Mixing widescreen electronica. think early Mr Fingers-like techno and Yellow Magic Orchestra’s exuberant man-machine minimalism with the warm-hearted and wonky naivete of Belgian New Beat. // On March 4, 2022 Charlotte Adigéry and Bolis Pupul released the studium album, Topical Dancer co-written and produced by Soulwaxunder the label Deewee, Topical Dancer is Adigéry and Pupul’s debut album as a duo. // Pupul and Adigéry are both based in Belgium with shared heritage from Martinique, a French island. They first met while working for the soundtrack of Belgica, a 2016 Belgian drama, after being invited by Soulwax, who also co-written and produced this album. The album is influenced by experiences of racial discrimination and sexual abuse. In the album, Adigéry sings in English, Dutch, Creole, and French. The album features Charlotte Adigéry’s mother, Christiane Adigéry and was released under the label Deewee, which the duo previously released three EPs on. “Thank You” is the lead single of Topical Dancer and the second single is “Blenda”. “Blenda” was released on November 4, 2021 along with an announcement of the album and its release date. The first track of the album “Bel Deewee” is a field recording of Adigéry entering the Deewee recording complex, which is also where they recorded the album, and calling through the intercom. // On the review aggregator Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from professional publications, Topical Dancer received an average score of 85, based on six reviews, indicating “universal acclaim”. Emily Mackay of The Observer called the album “banging fusion of funk, house and techno”. Paul Simpson of AllMusic claimed the album was “catchiest and most danceable songs Adigéry and Pupul have written to date” and that the lyrics “offer a lot of food for thought”. Eric Torres of Pitchfork called the album “riveting” and reported that the album had a “roguish charm”. Jasper Willems wrote on Beats Per Minute that Topical Dancer is “spiritual palette cleanser as much as it is a physical one” and “a record for literally anyone”. In a review written for NME, reviewer Max Pilley claimed that the album “arrived bursting with positive energy”. Charlotte Adigéry and Bolis Pupul played the Empty Bottle in Chicago on Sept. 19 at 8:00 PM. Topical Dancer was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022.]

10. (#82.) Doubledrag – “Sound”
    from: Alone With Everyone / Doubledrag / March 11, 2024
    [Debut full length from the rising 4 member bone oscillating shoegaze band, Doubledrag, hailing from KC. Doubledrag played an Album Release show March 29 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO w/ Siilk, Wire Twins.]

[Doubledrag play Bottleneck, 737 New Hampshire, Lawrence KS, Sat, Dec. 21, at 6:00pm w/ When Forever Finds Me (album Release), My Escape, Fritsy, Tombseeker for Paper Anchor Media’s Not So Silent Night.]

11. (#81.) Burning Bush – “Burning Bush”
    From: Demo 2024 / Burning Bush / May 8, 2024
    [Aaron Rhodes on vocals; Harrison Hawkins on guitar; Daniel Evans on bass; Ethan Payton on drums. Recording, mixing, mastering by Alex Tunks. All songs written by Burning Bush. Instrumentals recorded on January 14, 2024 at The Space in Kansas City, Missouri. Vocals recorded on February 10, 2024 at Alex’s place in Kansas City, Missouri. Aaron Rhodes, is founder and Editor in Chief of Shuttlecock Music Magazine, and Talent Buyer & Marketer at Farewell KCMO. Shuttlecock Music Magazine started as a blog nine years ago, just after Aaron graduated from College. Aarom is a Talent Buyer & Marketer at Farewell and Howdy, KCMO, 6515 Stadium Dr, Kansas City, MO. Aaron Rhodes formerly was a music writer for The Pitch and a freelance contributing writer for http://www.Bridge909.org Aaron was also content manager at Do816.com. Aaron was also a co-host of the music blog, “In My Head Ache” with Bill Brownlee. http://www.shuttlecockmusic.com]

12. (#80.) Belle & The Vertigo Waves – “Like You Love Me (ReAligned)”
    from: (Re) Aligned / Drop Out Records / August 2, 2024
    [Belle Loux on lead vocals, Jeremiah Scott on bass, John Loux on lead guitar, Zach Nielsen on rhythm guitar, Elliott Holt on drums, Jeremiah Scott – Producer/Composer , Justin Mantooth – Engineer, Belle Loux & Jeremiah Scott on keyboard, Belle Loux, & Michaela Loux on background vocals. // \Belle Loux writes: “The songs on this EP I originally wrote when I was about 17. that’s almost a decade ago. Why are we releasing them again? Because I had put that album out with no band. I chose the artist name “Belle & The Vertigo Waves” in hopes that I would one day find a band. Pretty much the biggest homeschooled, loner kid move. The album at the time was angsty, soft indie rock. Over the years, I got my band together. My dad (John), my boyfriend at the time (Jeremiah – husband now), one of his besties (Zach) and you know… just some drummer. jk we love Elliott. // Our sound slowly evolved and got heavier. Everyone had found their own place in the music we were making putting pieces of our wildly different musical influences into one collaborative project like a weird ass potluck. From 90s grunge, 80s rock to modern pop… we made something that made us feel like a BAND. // So here we are, rock-ifying a bunch of sad girl songs, turning them into something that will make you speed down neighborhood roads to. oops.. sorry. These songs range from being about teenage breakups to experiencing death and grief for the first time. A decade later, I added some lyrical and melodic changes to give some new perspective to those stories along with the insane change my band made in composition and feel to the instrumentation. // Belle & The Vertigo Waves is the sonic brainchild of Belle Loux. She resides in KCMO, and is slowly attempting world domination. Belle & The Vertigo Waves released their debut album, ALIGNED on Drop Out Records on Oct. 6, 2017. “About the album, Belle told Michelle Bacon at The Bridge, “Many of the tunes had been written around five years prior, when I was just 15 or 16.” Belle had only played them as a solo artist with occasional accompaniment from her dad, guitarist John Loux, & keyboardist Charlie Hibberd. In 2017, she hired the two musicians and a couple other friends to track “Aligned,” dubbing the project Belle and the Vertigo Waves, in the hopes that she’d eventually assemble a live band. “Recording was a surreal and emotional experience. Playing the songs with a band was like seeing them come to life,” she said. “I knew there was no way I could be a solo artist anymore, because I fell in love with the full band sound so much.” // The music of Belle & The Vertigo Waves have been described as having an “1980s pop-laden sound.” which drew local attention in 2018. Belle has said that in the past 4 years the band has grown to have more of a darker, glam rock sound, grittier and grungier. Their sound is influenced by three generations of musicians in the band, Belle’s growth as a songwriter and singer, and through the band’s work with engineer and producer Paul Malinowski. // Belle & The Vertigo Waves released their debut album, ALIGNED on Drop Out Records on Oct. 6, 2017. Belle & The Vertigo Waves released their single, “Fear or Faith” on June 7, 2019 on Drop Out Records. Belle & The Vertigo Waves released their single, “Pulse” on April 17, 2020 on Drop Out Records. Belle & The Vertigo Waves released their single, “Beat Me To The Punch” on Drop Out Records on Oct. 29, 2021. Belle & The Vertigo Waves released their single “Stand Down” on Jan. 21, 2022 Belle & The Vertigo Waves released their album, LORELAI on May 28, 2022. Belle & The Vertigo Waves joined us on WMM on Feb 5, 2020 and June 26, 2019. More info at: http://www.thevertigowaves.com]

13. (#79.) Gossip – “Crazy Again”
    from: Real Power / Ultra Records/Sony Music Entertainment / March 22, 2024
    [Formed in 1999 in Olympia, Washington with vocalist Beth Ditto, guitarist Nathan “Brace Paine” Howdeshell and drummer Kathy Mendonca. All 3 were originally from Searcy, Arkansas; Mendonca moved to Olympia to attend Evergreen State College and Howdeshell and Ditto followed. Drummer Kathy Mendonca left the band to pursue a career as a midwife. Established punk drummer Hannah Blilie joined to replace her. Gossip’s album A JOYFUL NOISE was part of WMM’s 112 Best Recordings of 2012. // LA – Indie-pop rebels Gossip have made a triumphant return with their highly anticipated album, Real Power, marking their first album in 12 years. // The album marks a reunion with acclaimed producer Rick Rubin, who helmed the band’s pivotal 2009 album Music For Men. At the coaxing of Rubin, the band started recording in 2019 after completing a tour for the ten-year anniversary of Music For Men. Recorded at Rubin’s home studio in Kauai, the process was temporarily halted by the pandemic and resumed when restrictions lifted. The result is an 11-track testament to the galvanizing might of music, the liberating joy of creative expression, and the profound power of chosen family amidst collective and personal upheavals. “Real Power” not only marks a new chapter of maturity and purpose for the trio but also showcases Gossip’s characteristic blend of sonic diversity, spanning from propulsive rock to jubilant disco, and delving into a rich tapestry of emotions that encompass the full spectrum of the human experience. // Reflecting on the intervening years since their last collaboration, frontwoman Beth Ditto shares, “We all experienced a lot of deep loss, and we each turned 40 since we last recorded together. Those are such big moments in your lives.” Since the band were last together, Ditto and Billie each got divorced, there were losses of close friends and family, and the world went through a pandemic. Working with Rubin again gave the band space and support to reconnect and create. “Rick is pure about his creativity. He’s not interested in fads or a label’s opinions. He’s a cheerleader—he tries to pull the best out of us. He has this ability to make an artist be their best when he’s working with them, because he works with people he believes in,” says Howdeshell. The band delved further into their long-awaited reunion in a recent profile with The New York Times. // In celebration of the album’s release, Gossip will be participating in a series of special events. The band will kick off with a vinyl signing at Rough Trade NYC on March 25th followed by The Grammy Museum on March 26th, who will host the trio for their SOLD-OUT ‘A New York Evening With’ at National Sawdust in Brooklyn, New York. It will feature an intimate conversation with Beth Ditto, moderated by T. Cole Rachel, followed by a performance by the band. Additionally, on March 27th, Beth Ditto will take center stage as a chat guest on The Late Show with Seth Meyers, accompanied by a full-band performance. // Highlights on Real Power include the invigorating “Real Power,” lauded by Billboard for its “infectious melodies and stratospheric vocals,” along with the first single and blissful pop classic “Crazy Again,” praised by Consequence for its “dazzling production and radiant hooks.” // A multi-platinum selling band, Gossip have sold over 10 million records worldwide and are one of Indie Rock’s most exciting acts from the early 21st century. Gossip consists of vocalist Beth Ditto, guitarist Nathan “Brace Paine” Howdeshell and drummer Hannah Blilie. ​​The band’s 2016 breakout studio album, Standing In The Way Of Control, reached #1 on UK Indie chart (certified Gold) and solidified the band as a dynamic force in the music scene. “Standing In The Way Of Control,” the album’s battle-cry title track, is a queer anthem written in response to U.S. government’s proposition to define marriage and exclude homosexuals. The band achieved multiplatinum success with their follow up Music For Men, certified 2x platinum in Germany and France, 1x platinum in Australia and Switzerland with sales in excess of 1.5m copies. // Gossip is renowned for their high energy live performances and have delivered incredible sets at some of the world’s biggest festivals such as Glastonbury, Coachella, Pukkelpop Festival and most recently a triumphant headline set at BBC 6 Music Festival. The band’s first U.S. festival performance following the release of Real Power will be at Just Like Heaven in Pasadena, CA on May 18th. They recently launched their 30-city EU/UK tour on March 21st in Berlin, Germany, with stops planned in Milan, London, Zürich, Dublin, and many more. The tour is packed with festival appearances such as Glastonbury and All Points East. For information on upcoming tour dates, visit: https://www.bethditto.com%5D

14. (#78.) St. Vincent – “Broken Man”
    from: All Born Screaming / Total Pleasure Records / April 26, 2024
    [All Born Screaming is the upcoming seventh studio album from St. Vincent. On February 16, 2024, the musician first spoke about the record, saying how she “needed to go deeper in finding [her] own sonic vocabulary” and likes to refer to the album as “post-plague pop”. All Born Screaming marks the first studio album entirely produced by Clark herself, alongside additional mixing by Cian Riordan. The record features contributions from several artists, including Dave Grohl, Cate Le Bon, Justin Meldal-Johnsen, Josh Freese, Stella Mozgawa, Rachel Eckroth, Mark Guiliana, and David Ralicke of Dengue Fever. Trying to explain the sound of the album, Clark compared it to “taking the long walk into the woods alone” in order to find the messages of your heart. As a result, she opined that it “sounds real because it is real”. // Clark shared the lead single “Broken Man”, an “industrial menacing rock” piece, on February 29, 2024, along with a music video directed by Alex Da Corte. During the video, she bursts into flames, an image that is also depicted as the album artwork. // The song “Sweetest Fruit” includes an ode to Sophie, a music producer whom Vincent admired and who died in 2021, and is about “people trying for transcendence, and at least they were taking a big swing or trying for something beautiful”. // Anne Erin Clark (born September 28, 1982), known professionally as St. Vincent, is an American musician and singer. Her guitar playing has been praised for its melodic style and use of distortion, and she has been listed among the best guitarists of the 21st century by multiple publications. Rolling Stone named Clark the 26th-greatest guitarist of all time in 2023. // Raised in Dallas, St. Vincent began her music career as a member of the Polyphonic Spree. She was also a member of Sufjan Stevens’ touring band before forming her own band in 2006. Her debut solo album, Marry Me, was released in 2007; it was followed by Actor (2009) and Strange Mercy (2011). In 2012, St. Vincent released Love This Giant, an album made in collaboration with David Byrne of Talking Heads. Her fourth studio album, St. Vincent (2014), received widespread acclaim from contemporary critics and was named album of the year by Slant Magazine, NME, The Guardian and Entertainment Weekly. She collaborated with producer and songwriter Jack Antonoff for her albums Masseduction (2017) and Daddy’s Home (2021), which received further acclaim. // St. Vincent produced Sleater-Kinney’s 2019 album The Center Won’t Hold and co-wrote Taylor Swift’s Billboard Hot 100 number-one single “Cruel Summer”. She also directed a segment in the 2017 anthology horror film XX, and co-wrote and starred in the psychological thriller film The Nowhere Inn (2020). // Clark was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on September 28, 1982, to Sharon Christine and Richard “Rick” Clark. // Her mother is a social worker and administrator for a nonprofit organization, and her stepfather works in corporate tax administration. Her parents divorced when she was 3, and when she was 7, she moved with her mother and two older sisters to Dallas, Texas. She has said that a 23andMe DNA test revealed her ancestry to be 80% Irish and 20% Ashkenazi Jewish, via one of her grandmothers. Clark was raised Catholic and Unitarian Universalist. // Clark has four brothers and four sisters from her parents’ blended families. // As a child, Clark was fond of Ritchie Valens and the movie La Bamba. When she was five, her mother gave her a red plastic guitar from a Target store for Christmas. She began playing her first real guitar at age 12 and worked some of her teenage years as a roadie for her aunt and uncle, the guitar-vocal jazz duo Tuck & Patti. In 2001, she graduated from Lake Highlands High School, where she participated in theater and the school’s jazz band, and was a classmate of actor Mark Salling. // She attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts, studying with professor Lauren Passarelli. She left after three years, feeling that art institutions such as Berklee were sometimes focused more on the aesthetics of art than the product. In retrospect, she said, “I think that with music school and art school, or school in any form, there has to be some system of grading and measurement. The things they can teach you are quantifiable. While all that is good and has its place, at some point you have to learn all you can and then forget everything that you learned in order to actually start making music.”]

15. (#77.) Kim Gordon – “Trophies (Album Version)”
    from: The Collective / Kim Gordon – Matador Records / March 8, 2024
    [Kim Gordon is an artist, musician, producer, fashion designer, writer, and actress. She is a founding member of the experimental post-punk band Sonic Youth. Following the breakup of Sonic Youth, Gordon formed the group Body/Head. A collection of her early critical art writing entitled Is It My Body? was released by Sternberg Press in January 2014. // From kimgordon.bandcamp.com: Legendary musician and multi-disciplinary artist Kim Gordon returns with her second solo album, The Collective, which will be released March 8th on Matador. Recorded in her native Los Angeles, The Collective follows Gordon’s 2019 full-length debut No Home Record and continues her collaboration with producer Justin Raisen (Lil Yachty, John Cale, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Charli XCX, Yves Tumor), with additional production from Anthony Paul Lopez. The album advances their joint world building, with Raisin’s damaged, blown out dub and trap constructions playing the foil to Gordon’s intuitive word collages and hooky mantras, which conjure communication, commercial sublimation and sensory overload. // “On this record, I wanted to express the absolute craziness I feel around me right now,” says Gordon. “This is a moment when nobody really knows what truth is, when facts don’t necessarily sway people, when everyone has their own side, creating a general sense of paranoia. To soothe, to dream, escape with drugs, TV shows, shopping, the internet, everything is easy, smooth, convenient, branded. It made me want to disrupt, to follow something unknown, maybe even to fail.” // More info at: http://www.bodyheadmusic.com]

16. (#76.) The Matchsellers – “Marcus Aurelius Too Late!”
    from: Live at The Warehouse / The Matchsellers / May 3, 2024
    [Julie Bates is a classically trained violinist from Kansas City. Andrew Morris is a Chicago blues guitarist from Warsaw, Indiana. They met in Leipzig, Germany. During their year of living in the former East Germany, the pair began reanalyzing the songs of their homeland, and developed a tight yet gritty bluegrass style. In the summer of 2013 they left their jobs to hit the road and haven’t looked back. // In the band’s most recent iteration, mandolinist Brian McCarty brings an invaluable lifetime of experience in the Bluegrass tradition, while Brandon Day thrills audiences with his intricate bass solos. // On October 28, 2022 The Matchsellers released The Wishfuk Thinker’s Hall of Game // On February 12, 2016 they released their album, SONGS WE MADE UP, one of Wednesday MidDay Medley’s 116 Best Recordings of 2016.. In late 2014 they released their debut full length recording, “Kosciusko County,” one of Wednesday MidDay Medley’s 115 Best Recordings of 2015. The Matchsellers have toured 3 European countries and 25 US States, performing 180 shows a year, including last year for the KC Fringe Festival, Bluegrass Bazaar in Flint, Michigan, Norman Music Festival in Norman, OK, and a 1st place win at the Eddie Owen Presents songwriting competition in Atlanta, GA. The Matchsellers played an official Showcase at the 2024 Folk Alliance International Conference on Thursday, February 22, at The Westin Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center 1 East Pershing Road, KCMO. The Matchsellers play a LIVE Album Release Show at Flagship Books, 510 North 6th Street, KCK, Strawberry Hill on Friday, May 3, at 7:30pm , with opening poetry from C. Woods.]

11:00 – Station ID

17. (#75.) St. George & The Dragons – “King of Kansas City”
    from: King of Kansas City / Grand Central Bell Records / August 30, 2024
    [David George on vocals/guitar, Mike Greene on guitar, Skeet Hanks on vocals & guitar, Matt Kesler on vocals & bass, and Pat Tomek on drums. With Guest Players: Lin Buck on piano & organ, and Ken Lovern on organ. // Produced by David George. Recorded and Engineered by Pat Tomek at Largely Studios – KCMO. Mastered by Duane Trower at Weights & Measures Soundlabs – KCMO. Artwork by Jud Kite – Killer Kite Productions // A band’s lifespan is on the average two years. But after two years, St. George & The Dragons is just getting started. After four years of writing, rehearsing, and recording, St. George & The Dragons are releasing their debut album – King Of Kansas City, a ten-song album of pure rock and roll influenced by late 70s rock like the Stones and Tom Petty. // The album’s theme comes from a time when Rock ‘n’ Roll ruled the airwaves. It’s about letting go and raising your hand high into the air with your middle finger out to the world as you move on to the next big thing in your life. // Their first single “Leave It All Up To You” will be available on all streaming services June 21! The full-length album will be out August 30 with the vinyl release in September on Grand Central Bell Records. // Lead singer David George (Moaning Lisa, John Fogerty band) has been working with drummer/engineer Pat Tomek (The Rainmakers) since 2018 when they recorded three solo EPs for George. They found it easy to work together and had similar tastes which led them to produced and engineer an album for Kansas City artist David Luther. In the studio with Luther, they enlisted the help of Matt Kesler (The Pedaljets, She Said, The Doo Dads) on bass with Tomek on drums and George on guitars and keys. // George, Tomek, and Kesler hit it off and started working on material of their own, eventually bringing in guitarist Mike Greene (The Front/Bakers Pink) and vocalist/guitarist Skeet Hanks (Beatin’ Path) to round out the sound. Greene was the lead guitarist in the Front, a band known for their searing guitar and power rock sound. Hanks, from New Orleans fronted the band Beatin’ Path, tearing up the Bayou country with their progressive rock sound and soaring melodies. // Influenced by the works of The Stones, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, The Beatles, and many other classic rock bands from the 70s and the 80s, St. George & The Dragons came together during the Global Pandemic, giving them time to develop their sound. George, Greene, Hanks, Kesler, and Tomek have all had their share of greatness, from the collective albums they’ve released on major and indie labels to sharing the stage with legends like Paul McCartney, The Replacements, Soul Asylum, Doobie Brothers, The Black Crowes, Derek Trucks Band, Lumineers, Aerosmith, Smithereens, Mother Love Bone, and a list that could fill up a book! // St. George & The Dragons will be following up their release with shows around the Kansas City area later this summer and fall. More information at: http://www.stgeorgeandthedragonsband.com St. George & The Dragons Played a Vinyl Release Party, September 19, 2024 at 8:00pm at Knuckleheads, 2715 Rochester St, KCMO, with Comet Tide opening]

18. (#74.) Grady Philip Drugg – “David Died”
    from: 4 / Grady Philip Drugg / November 8, 2024
    [All songs written, performed, and produced by Grady Philip Drugg. Mixed by Joe Misterovich | Mastered by Mike Nolte. Additional Musicians: Lee “Boodrow” Zodrow – Organ, Piano, Rhodes (2, 4, 7, & 8), Rachel Oglesby Beattie – Tenor Saxophone (3, 4, & 8). Hamilton McKay Belk III – Pedal Steel Guitar (4 &8). // Grady Philip Drugg is a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter originally from Canyon Lake, Texas. Drugg began to write original music while in high school, forming several short lived bands throughout their inadequate academic career. In 2014, at 20 years old, they relocated to Springfield, Missouri to play bass in influential 4th wave emo band Grammer. Grammer released an EP, Awesome Knifes (2014), and toured the south and midwest for two years before permanently disbanding. Drugg would form the post rock band Importer/Exporter with their former Grammer bandmate Dakota Jones, which would go on to put out one album, Breathing Techniques (2018), and tour the United States and Canada. Since the end of their last tour, Importer/Exporter has been on hiatus. All the while, Drugg was simultaneously putting out solo releases, most notably three full-length albums, Grady Philip Drugg (2016), Art is Supposed to be Fun! (2017), and Real Life (2020), in support of which they toured across the United States several times. // Since 2018, Drugg has focused mainly on being a sideman, playing for artists such as Willi Carlisle, Dylan Earl, Ings, and Dreamgirl, as well as being a recording engineer in their own studio. // This new album, 4, is Drugg’s fourth full-length album, and is inspired by all of the great 4th albums that came before it (Black Sabbath 4, Led Zeppelin 4, Beyoncé 4, etc). It was self-recorded in Drugg’s converted garage studio in Springfield, Missouri, with Drugg playing most of the instruments themself. Drawing influence from their work as a sideman, Drugg decided that it was time to sit down and write some songs with substance… Songs that could be stripped away and not be reliant on any fancy studio tricks or complex instrumentation. The subject matter on this album ranges from knocking a tooth out as a child to taking a walk on acid to get a slice of pizza…a glimpse into the moments between gigs for one slacker sideman out of Missouri. // Grady Philip Drugg plays Manor Fest 6, May 24, at 5:45 PM at Flagship Books, 600 Ohio Ave., KCK in Strawberry Hill w/ The Swallowtails and Dalima Kapten]

19. (#73.) Kaia Kater – “The Witch (Feat. Aoife O’Donovan)”
    from: Strange Medicine / Kaia Kater – Free Dirt Records / May 17, 2024
    [Kaia Kater’s album, Strange Medicine, opens with a haunting vision. Accompanied by Aoife O’Donovan, Kater sings of the women burned at the stake as witches in 17th century Salem, Massachusetts and their wish to strike back: “I dreamt I moved through you and / Burned my name into your chest”. It’s an opening salvo from an album that celebrates the power of women and oppressed people throughout history as they rise up and turn the poison of centuries of oppression into a strange kind of medicine. Kater’s songs are dialogues with these historical figures and meditations on her own modern life as well. In the years since her 2018 album, Grenades, on Smithsonian Folkways, Kater has taken time to reinvent herself and hone her skills, first attending film school to learn composition, then diving deeper into her songwriting to come up with her most personal album yet. Feeling the pressure as a talented young songwriter, banjo player, and bandleader with three successful albums and an NPR Tiny Desk Concert under her belt, Kater struggled initially with the expectations of her adopted genre, Americana. “I was factoring everybody else’s perception into my songwriting,” she says. “Would I write more honestly if I knew that no one would ever hear this?” With that in mind, Kater retreated to her apartment in Montréal. Sitting at home with her banjo, the songs unfolded in personal intimacy, revealing windows into the perspective of women and revolutionaries through history. Co-producing with Joe Grass (Elisapie, The Barr Brothers), Kater invited close friends and colleagues O’Donovan and Allison Russell to sing on the album, along with longtime hero and American legend Taj Mahal. With lush arrangements and unexpected musical ideas drawn from genres as surprising as minimalist composition, jazz drumming, and film scores, Strange Medicine is the bold next step in Kater’s career. It’s an album made beyond the white gaze of Americana, unbeholden to a music industry that so often tokenizes and silences marginalized voices, a Black Feminist perspective on a genre that refuses to cede power to Black women. // Kaia Kate writes: “I specifically wanted to write about the way men historically have branded women as temptresses, harlots, sirens and shrews, and then sought to reflect this visually – the letter A for adulteress, the burning of flesh to symbolize evil. The first woman labeled a witch in Salem was a Black woman by the name of Tituba. Usually these women died nameless and scorned. In my narrative, the woman who is branded a witch and burned at the stake survives her pilgrim’s punishment, and now seeks her revenge on those who sought to destroy her.” // “One of Americana’s most thoughtful and inventive artists returns after six years with a meditation on those who’ve survived and thrived against marginalization and oppression.” – Ann Powers, NPR Music]

20. (#72.) Honeybee – “House Party”
    from: Saturn Return – EP / Honeybee / March 29, 2024
    [Honeybee started as the solo project of Singer/Songwriter Makayla Scott and now include 3 or 4 of her friends umping in… Honeybee released the songle “I Know What Love is” on January 27, 2023. Makayla Scott also played with the band Blue False Indigo Makayla Scott studied music at Drury University graduating in 2017. Honeybee played Manor Fest 6 at 6:30 PM at Arizona Trading CO. 1722 Oak Street KCMO with The Highwater, and Jass.]

21. (#71.) Making Movies – “La Sombra (En Vivo) [feat. Asdru Sierra]”
    from: Baúl De Las Movies (En Vivo En Folly Theater 2023) / 3/2 Recordings / Sept. 27, 2024
    [Making Movies is a KC based 4-piece band and made up of: Enrique Chi on guitar and lead vocals; Diego Chi on bass & vocals; Juan-Carlos Chaurand on percussion & keyboards; and Duncan Burnett on drums. The band draws their influences from the origins of their families: Santiago, Panama, and KC Missouri, and Guadalajara, Mexico. // Enrique Chi writes: “The walls of The Folly are special, it is one of the best sounding stages we’ve ever played on so it seemed like a no brainer to record our 2023 concert there. The concert featured an incredible horn section led by Asdru Sierra from Ozomatli, alongside Trevor Turla and Ryan Heinlein. Mireya Ramos was also able to join us and help us make the night truly magical. That place has history for the city and the Chaurand family so we are excited to share this moment with you.” // Making Movies – Live at the Folly Theater, Kansas City, January 28th, 2023, Produced by Ben Yonas, McKenzii Webster, Executive Producer Javier E. Carrizo, Production Assistant Nora Gibbons, Recording & Mixing Engineer Ben Yonas, Recording Engineer Paul Malinowski, Mastering Engineer, Dave Greenberg/Sonopod, Assistant Sound Engineers Josh Gomez, Ricky Menendez. Asdru Sierra on trumpet; Ryan Heinlein, Trevor Turla on trombone. // “Baúl De Las Movies: Folly Theater 2023” was also filmed. Directed by William J. Stribling. // Directors of Photography Adam Baron-Bloch, Alex Gallitano. // Camera Operators Cole Blaise, Nora Gibbons, Esai Saenz. // Production Designer Aisa Palomares. // Edited by Raymond Fraser. // Colorist Tam Le // DI Coordinator John Daniels-Riveros. // DI Services Provided by Sodalite Color // Stream “Baúl De Las Movies: Folly Theater 2023” – https://ffm.to/follyliveep.OYD. // Latin Grammy nominated band Making Movies released their specual EP EN LA SALA containing 8 of the songs recorded LIVE, on January 12, 2024. Before that they released their single “Medicina”. Most recently Making Movies released XOPA through Cosmica Artists on June 17, 2022. XOPA and was recorded in Memphis, produced by Ben Yonas and mixed by Tchad Blake. More info at: http://www.makingmovies.world. Making Movies released the 5-song EP, EN VIVO (SIN APLAUSO) on February 4, 2022. Making Movies released the 6-track EP BORING BITS, on May 7, 2021. On February 5, the band released the 7-song, La Cuarentena EP which included a brand new version of the first Making Movies song, “La Marcha” and the lullaby “Could You?” (both mixed by Jim Eno of Spoon and tracked at Memphis Magnetic studio), and the love ballad “Una Vida.” The EP also includes: covers of Talking Heads and Tears for Fears classics, plus bonus live acoustic tracks. The EP was made available on BandCamp for only three days on February 5 through February 7, 2021. Making Movies released their single “Could You” on January 12, 2021. About “Could You” lead singer Enrique Javier Chi wrote, “I was thinking about what to share for “Could You?” and I just go back to the fact that Memphis is a profound place… it is a place where you can feel what America truly is and where it comes from. I think you see and feel the reality that so much of this nation was built from exploiting people. You can see that our pop culture is driven by the Black community and yet that community is still the most oppressed in the nation. Things are still so messed up. // Memphis is the place where Elvis started singing black music with a country twang and where Martin Luther King Jr. was shot. It’s a beautiful place, it’s a charming place, it feels at times downtrodden and it’s a place that reminds me of home (both KC and Panamá) in different ways. Our experiences going to Memphis gave us the context to create “Could You?” It was filmed originally for AMERI’KANA TV..” Making Movies released their critically acclaimed album ameri’kana through 3/2 Recordings on May 24, 2019. This was #1 on WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. Produced by Steve Berlin and Ben Yonas. The notes for this album read: “ameri’kana is a canary in a coal mine, the watchman at the tower. It is a desire to remember where we come from and assure that we better ourselves in every step along our journey. Every chapter is an example, a reason to not be silent and not accept corrupt leaders as something inevitable. ameri’kana is based on faith, faith that every person on this continent carries within themselves the ability to grow, to awaken their consciousness and merits of the same rights. We were accomplices to get ourselves to this point so we will have to be accomplices in the solutions.” This was the band’s follow up release to their critically acclaimed, I Am Another You, released May 26, 2017. The quartet has toured with Arcade Fire, Thievery Corporation, Cold War Kids, Los Lobos, Ozomatli, Tennis, Sergio Mendoza of Calexico, Rodrigo y Gabriela, and Hurray for the Riff Raff. More info at: https://makingmovies.world Making Movies plays Percheron Rooftop Series at the Crossroads Hotel, 2101 Central Street, Kansas City, MO, TONIGHT on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 7:00 PM.]

22. (#70.) Danielle Ate the Sandwich – “Me-Oh-My”
    from: 2024 (The 24 Hour Album) / Danielle Ate The Sandwich / January 14, 2024
    [The 5 songs on this album were written and recorded in 24 hours on January 13th-14th, 2024, during Danielle Ate the Sandwich’s 9th annual 24 Hour Album. Patrons of Danielle Ate the Sandwich tuned in from all across the world to suggest ideas and offer support with Danielle during live streams held throughout the 24 hours. Life is short! Stay up all night and make stuff! // Danielle Anderson performs as Danielle Ate the Sandwich. Danielle is a singer/songwriter, recording artist, and comedic performer based in KCMO. Danielle grew a fanbase with her DIY videos on Youtube and by touring the US extensively from 2009-2018. Danielle has released 7 albums of original music, over 200 YouTube videos, and conducts an annual 24 Hour Album project, writing and producing new songs with the help of her patrons in only 24 hours. She is recording her 8th album in Kansas City, KS, with Fritz Hutchison and Al Hawkins of True Lions. The album received an Inspiration Grant from ArtsKC. Her project, ‘The Greatest Garage Sale Ever,’ a one woman comedy cabaret, using humor, music, and songs to challenge the labels we give each other, and our ability to change premiered at the KC Fringe Festival, in July 2024 at The Bird Comedy Theater, 103 West 19th, KCMO. // Danielle Anderson is originally from Nebraska, and moved to Colorado . From 2009 through 2018 she was on the road, touring and performing all over the country. // We first met Danielle through Erin McGrane and Jeff Freling aka Victor & Penny who met hwer out there on the road. // Danielle ended up making Kansas City her base and quickly became involved in Folk Alliance, The Heartland Song Network, Arts and Support organizations, and improv. // On February 23, 2024, Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the single, “Turtle by Jer” – Written by Jerry “Jer” Slougherman and Danielle Anderson. Performed by Jer. Mixed by David Bashford. // On January 14, 2024 Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the 6-track release, “2024 (The 24 Hour Album)”. // Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the recording “Over Again (24 Hour Album)” released February 26, 2023. The 6 songs on this album were written and recorded in 24 hours on February 25th-26th, 2023, during Danielle Ate the Sandwich’s 8th annual 24 Hour Album. This project challenges the artist to write, record, produce, and release a new album in just twenty four hours, live streaming the process to her fans. Patrons of Danielle Ate the Sandwich tuned in from all across the world to suggest ideas and offer support with Danielle during live streams held throughout the 24 hours. Life is short! Stay up all night and make stuff! // On February 20, 2022 Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the 7-track release, “Continued Curfew (24 Hour Album 2022)”. // Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the 7-song album, 24 HOUR ALBUM (2021), on April 25, 2021. The 7 songs on this album were written and recorded in 24 hours on April 24th-25th, 2021, during Danielle Ate the Sandwich’s 6th annual 24 Hour Album. // On May 28, 2021 Danielle Ate the Sandwich released, It’s Not a Burden (Original Songs from the Documentary Film) on Youngest Daughter Records. It’s Not A Burden is a powerful and brilliant film about the joys and pain of raising elderly parents. The songs are produced by Joanna Katcher. // Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the single, “A Weight, A Wall” on June 1, 2021. // Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the single, “Goodbye to You” on August 22, 2021. // Danielle Ate The Sandwich released the single, The Terrible Dinner Guest on September 9, 2016. The Terrible Dinner Guest is Danielle Ate the Sandwich’s 6th full length album, recorded in Norfolk, VA at TAPTAP Recordings and Clay Garden Studios. All Songs Written by: Danielle Anderson, Danielle Ate the Sandwich/BMI. Produced by: Skye Zentz, Jacki Paolella, Danielle Anderson. Arranged by: Danielle Anderson, Skye Zentz, Jacki Paolella. Engineered by: Jacki Paolella. Mixed by: Jacki Paolella. Mastered by: Adam Boose of Cauliflower Audio. Music. Contractor: Skye Zentz. Recorded in Norfolk, VA at TAPTAP Recordings and Clay Garden Studios. Art Direction: Ryan Anthony Martin. Photography by: Cooper James. // More info at: http://www.kcfringe.org and http://www.danielleatethesandwich.com

23. (#69) June Henry – “sega dreamcast”
    from: The Exhumation of Princess Pavement / June Henry Nation / February 14, 2024
    [June Henry is a 20-year-old is a Lawrence KS. Based, freak folk singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist.. Her music explores themes of mental illness, queerness, and growing up. // Prior to her official debut, Henry had collected her music in a Google Drive folder, shared only with a small group of friends. Bedridden in 2022, she was convinced to release this music in her first official album Class Pet. // It’s not really something I know how to do, as much as something I have to do to stop myself from exploding,“ from June Henry’s Spotify bio. // Since her debut, she hasn’t gone more than a couple months between releases- creating a niche audience and some of her most popular songs, such as Void-Adjacent and Excoriation. // In 2024 she has released 9n singles, two 4-song EPs., the 11 track album, The Exhumation of Princess Pavement, released February 14, 2024, the 14 track album Between Singles and One-Offs, exclusive CD comprised of singles and EP tracks released May 27, 2024, the 17 track album Podium, released June 30, 2024. // June Henry released the single “method act” on December 16, 2023. // June Henry released the single “fall into” on December 2, 2023. // June Henry released the 3-track EP “the light I SPIT OUT” on November 14, 2023. // June Henry released the single “vampire song” on November 3, 3023. // June Henry released the 5-song EP “flat earth romcom” on September 22, 2023. //June Henry released the 11-track album “something friend” on June 20, 2022. // June Henry released the 15-track album “class pet” on March 15, 2022. // June Henry released the 7-track album, “SOUTH RAMP” through Lotuspool Records when she was “a gay boy in high school (released as August Henry.) // June Henry has been posting a bunch of tunes on bandcamp! These are official releases along with things that have been archived from streaming platforms, AND many demos and voice memos from long ago. Her personal favorite is “the trouble i made”, which features five tracks written and recorded in high school. The first one, “straight boys, was recorded when June was fourteen. Check http://www.junehen.bandcamp.com for even more releases from June Henry.]

24. (#68.) TYLA – “ART”
    from: TYLA / FAX Records / March 2, 2024
    [Tyla Laura Seethal (born 30 January 2002), known mononymously as Tyla, is a South African singer and songwriter. Born and raised in Johannesburg, she signed with Epic Records in 2021 after the domestic success of her 2019 debut single, “Getting Late” featuring Kooldrink. // Tyla rose to international fame with the release of her 2023 single “Water”, which entered the top ten in sixteen countries including the United Kingdom and United States. “Water” was the first song by a South African soloist to enter the US Billboard Hot 100 in 55 years and was awarded the inaugural Grammy Award for Best African Music Performance in 2024. The single preceded her self-titled debut album (2024), which was released to critical acclaim and moderate commercial success, entering the top 25 in six countries including the United States. // Tyla is the youngest African artist to win a Grammy Award, and has also earned nominations for a BRIT Award, a Soul Train Music Award, a MOBO Award, and two South African Music Awards. She has been deemed the “queen of popiano”, a fusion of the pop and amapiano genres.// Tyla is the debut studio album by South African singer Tyla. It was released on 22 March 2024 through Fax and Epic Records. Capitalizing on her international breakthrough with its lead single “Water”, the album features guest appearances from Kelvin Momo, Tems, Gunna, Skillibeng, Becky G, and Travis Scott. Sonically, it blends elements of amapiano, pop, afrobeats, and contemporary R&B and includes lyrical themes of empowerment and relationships. // Recording sessions for Tyla took place in seven countries over two and a half years as Epic Records focused on fostering the singer’s formal studio experience. Production and songwriting on the album was spearheaded by the singer and her frequent collaborators Ari PenSmith, Mocha Bands, Believve and Sammy SoSo, whom she deems the “Fantastic Four”. “Water”, “Truth or Dare” and “Art” were released as singles from the album, and the Tyla Tour was announced; however multiple dates were cancelled due to injury. // Upon its release, Tyla was met with critical acclaim, with many critics praising the versatility of music genres featured. The album experienced moderate commercial success internationally, debuting at number 24 on the U.S. Billboard 200 and debuting within the top 20 in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, and Switzerland. // While at school, she had begun posting original songs and covers to her Instagram account, as well as sending them out to a number of figures in the music industry. She was subsequently discovered by her first manager, Garth von Glehn, who then organized her first recording sessions. Tyla states that she would go into the recording studio every weekend during her final year of high school.]

11:27:00 – Underwriting

25. (#67.) Big Fat Cow – “Cat Call”
    from: Behold The Soil! / Big Fat Cow / August 1, 2024
    [Big Fat Cow is a post-country band delivering cowpoke fuzz with a mix of rock, indie, and americana bold enough to get you moving and heavy enough to have you feeling. The band was formed in 2022 and includes: Noah Cassidy on lead vocals & guitar, Kole Waters on guitar & vocals, Alex May on bass guitar & vocals; and Matt Chipman on drums. Big Fat Cow \went on tour across the stomping grounds in support of Behold the Soil! with 13 shows in 14 days (8/22-9/4) in Missouri, Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. // Big Fat Cow’s first endeavor was a folk album (Glutton for Punishment) written and recorded by Noah Cassity and mastered and digitized by Kole Waters. Wanting to perform the songs live, Noah recruited the help of Kole on lead guitar alongside childhood friend Alex May to play the bass. Kole was able to bring in Matt Chipman to play drums and finish out the band. // Meeting for the first time in KA studios, the newly formed quartet ripped into Noah’s folk songs, turning them into the rock, indie, americana and country inspired pieces that you know today. Each member of the band took and ran with the folk songs that Noah recorded and made it their own, pulling in inspirations from each of their unique musical backgrounds. // Big Fat Cow has made themselves a household name in the Kansas City music scene, leaving an impression on everyone who comes out to see them play. With songs you can dance to and songs that will make you cry in the basement of a DIY show, Big Fat Cow is sure to leave their mark. // “A band this good shouldn’t get saddled with a name this bad … you’re just going to have to tell your friends that you’re going to see Big Fat Cow, and wince while you do it. – Too Much Rock // More information at http://www.bigfatcowband.com]

26. (#66.) Leah Sproul – “Devil Woman”
    from: Wild Heart Queen / Leah Sproul / July 30, 2024
    [This is first single off Leah Sproul’s WILD HEART QUEEN. // Coming from a family of European opera stars, suburban church organists, flower child Reggae guitarists, and breezy Western campfire pickers, Leah was bound to have an eclectic sound and set of influences. She has a voracious interest in music of all genres, having earned a doctorate in music composition from UMKC conservatory. But her mother tongue, the voice where she’s at her most vulnerable and honest, is that of the achy-breaky, belting balladeer. It’s found in country, folk, and those genres that give equal weight to words and music. It’s in the storytelling where some of the deepest human connections are forged. // Leah Sproul is also part of the KC 4-piece band Cowtown Country Club. // Leah Sproul played an album release party at The Ship, 1228 Union ave, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS on July 30, at 7:00pm, with Cowtown Country Club. More info at: http://www.leahsproul.com]

27. (#65.) Valerie June —“Big Dream”
    from: My Black Country: The Songs of Alice Randall / Oh Boy Records / Aspril 12 12, 2024
    [Collaborative album celebrates the Black female experience in Country & Folk music with additional contributions from Adia Victoria, Rhiannon Giddens, Saaneah Jamison, Miko Marks, Leyla McCalla, Rissi Palmer, Allison Russell, SistaStrings, Sunny War & Alice’s daughter Caroline Randall Williams, Re-recording the greatest songs from New York Times bestselling novelist, award-winning songwriter & educator Alice Randall’s catalog. Produced by Ebonie Smith (Hamilton, Cardi B’s Invasion of Privacy, Janelle Monae’s Dirty Computer, Sturgill Simpson’s A Sailor’s Guide to Earth, founder & president of Gender Amplified) // Companion album to Alice Randall’s new book: My Black Country: A Journey through Country Music’s Black Past, Present and Future. // “Growing up, we all have dreams and wishes. Alice Randall’s lyrics capture the magic of our personal dreams. In the simplest way, she invites listeners to remember the power of collective dreaming. If God can be a woman in a patriarchal society, then there are no limits to what can be achieved. Balance is restored through the sacred art of dreaming, and each dream big or small helps to shape our world. I am a dreamer. Everyone on this record is a dreamer. Together we are breaking boundaries just as so many who’ve come before have done for us.” – Valerie June // On March 12, 2021 Valerie June released her 5th full length album The Moon And Stars on June Tunes – Concord records, co-produced by Jack Splash and Valerie June. // Valerie June Hockett was born January 10, 1982), known as Valerie June, is an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Memphis, Tennessee, United States. Her sound encompasses a mixture of folk, blues, gospel, soul, country, Appalachian and bluegrass. She is signed to Concord Music Group worldwide. // Born in Jackson, Tennessee on January 10, 1982, June is the oldest of five children. As a child growing up in Humboldt, June was exposed to gospel music at her local church and R&B and soul music via her father, Emerson Hockett. As a teenager, her first job was with her father, owner of Hockett Construction in West Tennessee, and a part-time promoter for gospel singers and Prince, K-Ci & JoJo, and Bobby Womack. She helped by hanging posters in town. Her father died in late 2016. // June relocated to Memphis in 2000 and began recording and performing at the age of 19, initially with her then-husband Michael Joyner, in the duo Bella Sun. After her marriage ended, she began working as a solo artist, combining blues, gospel and Appalachian folk in a style that she describes as “organic moonshine roots music”, and learning guitar, banjo, and lap-steel guitar. She became associated with the Memphis-based Broken String Collective. // In 2009 she was a featured artist on MTV’s online series $5 Cover (following the lives of Memphis musicians attempting to make ends meet), and in 2010 she recorded the EP Valerie June and the Tennessee Express, a collaboration with Old Crow Medicine Show. // In 2011 she was honored by the Memphis and Shelby County Music Commission at the Emissaries of Memphis Music event. She raised funds to record an album with producer Craig Street via Kickstarter.com, raising $15,000 in 60 days. Later that year she relocated from Memphis to Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Shortly after, record producer Kevin Augunas introduced June to Dan Auerbach of The Black Keys, which led to the recording of June’s album Pushin’ Against a Stone in July 2011, which was co-written and produced by Dan Auerbach and Kevin Augunas. // In 2012, June performed with producer John Forté on a collaboration called Water Suites (on the hip-hop-blues song “Give Me Water”), and with Meshell Ndegeocello on the song “Be My Husband”. She contributed The Wandering’s 2012 album Go on Now, You Can’t Stay Here: Mississippi Folk Music Volume III. In 2012 she performed in the UK for the first time, playing at Bestival and appearing on Later… with Jools Holland. // She has received substantial radio play in Europe on BBC Radio 6, including a feature on Cerys on 6 with Cerys Matthews. Mary Anne Hobbs of XFM has said of June: “This woman has already touched my heart, she really, really has.” // In February 2013, June was invited to support Jake Bugg on the UK leg of his tour. In March 2013, June performed two nights at South By Southwest. The first performance was on March 14 as part of the Heartbreaker Banquet. On March 16, June performed again, this time as part of The Revival Tour. Rolling Stone June’s second album, The Order of Time one of the 50 Best Albums of 2017, citing “her handsomely idiosyncratic brand of Americana, steeped deep in electric blues and old-time folk, gilded in country twang and gospel yearning….a blend of spacey hippie soul, blues and folk with June’s pinched, modern-Appalachian voice at the center”. In a 2017 interview, Bob Dylan was asked what artists he listened to and respected; June was among the artists he mentioned in reply.More info at: http://www.valeriejune.com]

28. (#64.) Eboni Fondren – “The Late Late Show”
    from: The Journey: To Kansas City with Love / Miss Wardine Records / July 23, 2024
    [New 11-song studio album from Kansas City Jazz vocalist star. From Bill Brownlee’s blog, PLASTIC SAX (Aug. 18, 2024) “Fondren recalls her apprenticeship with the organist Everette DeVan on the autobiographical introductory song. Fondren’s vibrant personality and rich voice have since become widely admired. Kansas City standouts including James Albright, Chris Hazelton and Mark Lowrey help Fondren realize her vision on the live recording made at the Uptown Lounge.”: // Eboni Fondren is a dynamic, accomplished vocalist, actor and voice over talent who has been working in and around the Kansas City area for the past 20 years. Her voice can be heard all over the KC airwaves and in all venues entertaining for the masses! She has performed on stage at Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Coterie Theatre, Spinning Tree Theatre, and others. Eboni is one of the most highly sought after and premiere jazz vocalists in Kansas City and has become a bandleader in her own right. In addition to her own musical projects which include Eboni and the Ivories, and a member of the Lost Wax Band, Eboni collaborates with some of Kansas City’s top musicians and can be heard swinging all over the local jazz scene. On October 11, 2024 her Paris debut recording, “An American in Paris” with the Laurent Marode Orchestra will be released.More info at: http://www.ebonifondrenmusic.com]

29. (#63.) Back Alley Brass Band – “Second Line” (CD #29) (3:39)
    from: Last Chance To Dance – EP / Back Alley Brass Band / April 19, 2024
    [The Back Alley Brass Band released their debut full-length studio album Back Alley Brass Band on March 25, 2022. The Back Alley Brass Band is a Kansas City take on a funky brass band. The 10-piece band is a hard hitting music power house that starts a party wherever they play. 
Trumpets: Justin Crossman, Tom Lawlor Saxes: Eric Rothmier, Alex Toepfer Bones: Matt Hubbell, Matt Fillingham, Chacko Finn Sousa: Patrick Yeh Drums: Daniel McDill Aux Percussion: Jeremey ReynoldsThe Back Alley Brass Band plays Boulevardia, Saturday, June 15, at 7:30 PM on the Elevate Stage. More information at: http://www.backalleybrass.com ]

30. (#62.) Willi Carlisle – “Critterland”
    from: Critterland / Signature Sounds Recordings / January 26, 2024
    [For folksinger Willi Carlisle, singing is healing. And by singing together, he believes we can begin to reckon with the inevitability of human suffering and grow in love. On his latest album, Critterland, Carlisle invites audiences to join him: “If we allow ourselves to sing together, there’s a release of sadness, maybe even a communal one. And so for me personally, singing, like the literal act of thinking through suffering, is really freeing,” he says. // Rooted in the eclectic and collective world of his live shows, Carlisle’s third album, Critterland takes up where his sophomore album, Peculiar, Missouri left off, transforming Peculiar’s big tent into a Critterland menagerie and letting loose the weirdos he gathered together. The album is a wild romp through the backwaters of his mind and America, lingering in the odd corners of human nature to visit obscure oddballs, dark secrets and complicated truths about the beauty and pain of life and love. // Produced by the GRAMMY Award-nominated Darrell Scott and to be released Jan. 26, 2024 by Signature Sounds, Critterland considers where we come from and where we are going. On the album, he takes on human suffering through stories about forbidden love, loss, generational trauma, addiction, and suicide, believing that by processing the traits and trauma we inherit, he can reach a deeper understanding of what it means to succeed and to exist. // “[Critterland] is another brilliant composition from Carlisle, who has quickly established himself as one of country music’s most important and unmistakable voices.” -PASTE MAGAZINE // “One of the Top 10 “Best Things We Saw at Newport Folk Festival 2023” – Rolling Stone // Willi Carlisle is an absolute force of nature. From the moment he walks on stage you can’t take your eyes off of him and the minute he opens his mouth you can’t help but hang on every word. Even if the songs weren’t there, the showmanship alone would be worth the price of admission, but the scary part is the songs are just as good as the stories.” -BJ Barham .// Willi Carlisle released the album Peculiar, Missouri through Free Dirt Records on July 15, 2022. It was one of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. // Willi Carlisle is an “Ozark renaissance folklorist” who writes “brilliant, slice of life Americana.” (Sing Out!Magazine) A theatre artist, folksinger, poet, and square-dance caller, Willi received a BA from Knox College in Creative Writing and Performance Studies, and an MFA in Poetry at the University of Arkansas. His work has appeared in The Journal of American Folklore, The Midwest Review, and elsewhere. Willi is a co-leader of the Fayetteville Old-time Music and Dance Society and a company member with the Artist’s Laboratory Theater. Willi Carlisle played an official Showcase at the 2024 Folk Alliance International Conference on Thursday, February 22, at 6:45pm in Benton’s 20th Floor, at The Westin Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center 1 East Pershing Road, KCMO. His debut EP, “Too Nice to Mean Much,” is available at http://www.willicarlisle.com]

31. (#61.) Erin Keller & James Ward Band – “Gotta Get The White Stuff Out”
    from: Songs For Times Like These / Erin Keller / January 26, 2024
    [Erin Keller on vocals, James Ward on electric bass, Jaylen Ward on drums & cymbals, Angela Ward on keyboard, Chad Meise on electric guitar. Recorded & mixed by Chad Meise. Mastered by Collin Jordan. Artwork by David Ford. Photos & Graphic design by Kayla Haskins. // On May 9, 2016 Erin Keller released her debut solo album, DISTRACTED. // Erin Keller is originally from Waukee, Iowa. She was born in 1980. Erin has been singing on a professional level for 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 peforms with the Grammy-Award winning Kansas City Chorale. Erin has also worked as a featured soloist with Owen Cox Dance Ensemble, New Ear, KC jazz musicians, the big band at University of Colorado, a West African Highlife Ensemble, the Balkan brass band Gora Gora Orkestar. Erin also has experience writing her own music, singing in rock, folk, and free improv settings and she more recently 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 Keller & the James Ward Band play an Album Release Dinner Matinee Show, January 26, 2024, at 6:00pm, at The Ship, 1221 Union Avenue, KCMO. More info at: http://www.theshipkc.com]

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

Tune into WMM thru Dec. for WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2024 Dec 4, 11, 18, and 25.

NEXT WEEK, On December 18, we will bring you part 3 of our 4-week special: The 120 Best Recordings of 2024. We’ll count down #60 through #31 with tracks from: ALBER, elska, The Whips, Zee Underscore, RxGhost, True Lions, Quiet Takes, Lonnie Fisher, Paris Williams, Keelon Vann, Dan Camino, Danielle Nicole, Say That Again, MellowPhobia, The Fun Guy, Marty Bush,Xiu Xiu, Kali Uchis, PJ Morton, Swamp Dogg, Hermanos Gutiérrez, MJ Lenderman, Flamy Grant, Billie Eilish, Arooj Aftab, Nubya Garcia, Okay Kaya, Nilüfer Yanya, Laura Marling, and Samara Joy.

THANK YOU to our incredible KKFI Staff; Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers, KKFI Accounting & Administration – Shaina Littler

This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. Instead it is about a collective spirit of hundreds of hardworking people, unselfishly setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the gigantic goal of keeping our airwaves free, non-commercial, and open to all! Congratulations and thank you to all programmers & volunteers who went the extra effort to keep our station alive.

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

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Show #1073

Wednesday MidDay Medley’s 50 Favorite Singles of 2024

1. The Creepy Jingles – “Love Like You”

from: “Love Like You” – Single / High Dive Records / July 14, 2024
[This is the third of several new singles being released by The Creepy Jingles this year. The band released “Repeat After Me” on April 19, 2024. The band released “When Things Go Wrong” on February 23, 2024. The Creepy Jingles are a Kansas City based, rock and roll band that both honors and defies convention. Led by singer / song-writer Jocelyn Olivia Nixon, a transgender wordsmith who charms with razor wit and dazzles with her lyrical acrobatics. // Song (lyrics/melody/chords) written by Jocelyn Olivia Nixon. Mixed and Recorded by Paul Malinowski and recorded at Massive Sound Studios in Shawnee, Kansas. Mastered by Zack Hames. Jocelyn Nixon on lead vocals & rhythm guitar, Will Van Doorn on lead guitar & backing vocals, Andrew Woody on bass & backing vocals, Nick Robertson on drums & bait. // The Creepy Jingles released their album, TAKE ME AT MY WORDPLAY on March 25, 2022 through High Dive Records. Paired up with lyrics centering on themes of identity, strained relationships, social media madness, meme magic, pandemic paranoia, paid off political pundits, backyard bullies and barking up the wrong tree. Everything and the kitchen sink or swim. No stoner left unturned. The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019. The release was in the top ten of WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. ] The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019.] [The Creepy Jingles played Apocalypse Meow 17 on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at recordBar,]

2. Chase Horseman – “Silver Liner”

from: “Silver Liner” – Single / Chase The Horseman / October 25, 2024
[Silver Liner drums and additional engineering by Ian Dobyns, Additional vocals by Heidi Gluck. Mastered by Anthony Puglisi. Written, produced, performed and mixed by Chase Horseman at Element Recording. // Chase Horseman film composer, band leader, multi-instrumentalist, audio engineer, & producer. Chase Horseman has composed music for over 40 films. As musician and producer collaborated with Clairaudients, Teri Quinn, Heidi Lynne Gluck, KD Kuro, Nan Turner and more. On April 2, 2024 Chase released the 22 track Original Sound Track for Headcount, a feature film fro the Burghart Brothers, priduced by Continuance Pictures, Methoid Media, and Shout Factory. Chase created the music for two feature-length episodes of the Blum House Films and Hulu original series, “Into the Dark.” In February 2020 Chase released “Poor Song,” a cover of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs track by Karen O Chase played Sequential Circuits Prophet 600, Dave Smith MiniMopho, Korg Minilogue Xd, Moog Grandmother, Roland Alpha Juno 2, Mellotron, Guitar, Drums, Vocals pall erformed by Chase Horseman. Recorded at Element Recording Studios and Winky World. Mixed by Chase Horseman. Mastered by Joel Nanos Chase the Horseman is a band, film composer, multi-instrumentalist, audio engineer, & producer. On May 1 Chase released, a quarantine cover of “Midnight, The Stars and You” written by Harry M. Woods, Jimmy Campbell & Reg Connelly Stanley. The most famous version was recorded in 1934 by Ray Noble & his Orchestra with an uncredited Al Bowlly on vocals. This was used in the ballroom scene and closing of Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror film The Shining based on the novel by Stephen King. All of the profits of this single will be donated directly to service industry workers in Kansas City and Midwest Music Foundation on a 50/50 basis. Chase Horseman released Disinformation Blues EP on July 12, 2019. One of WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. Chase released the single “U Martyr U” June 19, 2018, and the single “Modern Ruins” on Oct 4, 2018. // More information at: http://www.chasethehorseman.bandcamp.com.]

#3. Ivory Blue – “Breathing Underwater”


from: “Breathing Underwater” – Single / IVORY BLUE / August 9, 2024
[IVORY BLUE released the single “Olé!” on October 4, 2024, Breathing Underwater” on August 9, 2024, “Bad Dreams”on June 7, 2024, “Batter Up” on April 22, 2024, “Bad Dreams”on June 7, 2024, “Batter Up” on April 22, 2024., “Flashback” on March 15, 2024, “Howl” on Feb. 16, 2024. // IVORY BLUE released their second full length album, STARLIT LOVE CHILD, on Nov. 17, 2023. The 10-track album was in the top five of Wednesday MidDay Medley’s 120 Best Recordings of 2023, and in the “Best of” lists at 90.9 The Bridge and other radio stations around the world. For STARLIT LOVE CHILD, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, & vocalist. // On October 27, 2023 IVORY BLUE released the sIngle “Ghost of Life.” This single followed IVORY’s previous releases,”In A World Like This” from September 22, 2023, ”The Best of Life” from August 4, 2023 and “Control” from May 26, 2023. IVORY released the single “All Outta Love” on February 24, 2023. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on Feb. 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2022. For COMPOUND LOVE, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, vocalist and played all instruments with the exception of: Lester Estelle on drums, Klaartje Van Lue on piano, Craig Kew on bass, Lennon Bone on drums, and Marco Pascolini on pedal steel guitar. Nick Poortman served in mixing, with Kurt Festge who also served in mixing & Mastering. IVORY BLUE’s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and give IVORY BLUE attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. // IVORY BLUE has played Crossroads Music Festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, the KCPT Screening of “Real Boy” at The KC Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium. // Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. // Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. // As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics. // By 2013, IVORY BLUE was playing regularly in and around KC and the first EP ‘Ready Get Set’ was released in 2015. IVORY BLUE released the video of “Family Table” directed by Mikal Shapiro, on Aug. 21, 2021 and the audio track was released on Sept. 7, 2021. IVORY BLUE released the single “Good Changes” on Oct 26, 2021. Ivory Blue released the singles: “Heavy,” “Bad Weather,” “It Must Have Been Me,” “Compound Love,” and “The Start” on December 14, 2021. IVORY BLUE released their debut album COMPOUND LOVE on Feb. 25, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Red Light” on July 29, 2022, “Starlit Love Child” on Oct. 28, 2022., “All Outta Love” on Feb. 24, 2023. http://www.ivorybluemusic.com]

4. Daniel Gum – “Don’t I Know”

from: Sophia – Don’t I Know – Single / Manor Records / January 24, 2024
[Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS who has been active since 2017. Daniel Gum released the single “Julia” on December 9, 2022. Daniel Gum released the single “Wolverine (ft. Rachel Cion)” on September 19, 2921. Daniel Gu, released the electronic pop EP, I’M NOT DEAD in 2017 and an acoustic EP, MOON in 2018. In addition to working on his own solo project, Daniel has been working with other local groups—playing bass and engineering for his band Pillow (a post-punk/shoegaze group) and playing drums behind singer-songwriter Chloe Jacobson, also doing some recording for her. Channeling the likes of Elliott Smith & Andy Shauf, he co-produced his new record THIRTEEN with Mike Crawford, playing almost everything you hear on the album and mixing it himself. Signing to Manor Records in the spring of 2020, he officially released THIRTEEN on cassette & CD on October 30, 2020. All songs written, performed, and.mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering. Daniel Gum is a 24 year old singer-songwriter . Since the age of 12, he has spent the majority of his time writing and recording songs by himself in his room. The Moon EP was released December 7, 2019. It was engineered by Mike Crawford and Daniel Gum and mixed by Daniel Gum with piano and accordion by Cole Crawford. Daniel Gun released his EPI’M NOT DEAD on October 25, 2017, and his 10-song album Reorient on July 31, 2015, with all songs written, recorded and mixed by Daniel Gum who also performed all vocals guitars, drums, piano, bass. harmonica, and programming. The first single from Daniel Gum’s album, Thirteen “Ruin Your Life” was released on September 4, The second single, “In The Worst Ways” was released September 28, 2020. ] [On our July 22, 2020, WMM show we played Daniel Gum’s track, “Tired Saint” from French Exit Records – Black Lives Matter Compilation, released July 6, 2020. French Exit Records was launched two years ago as an independent music label in KCMO, founded by Brad Girard. French Exit Records has released albums for No Magic and Raymond,. BLM Compilation is 22 acts from the area, with all proceeds donated to One Struggle KC’s Liberation Fund, a Black-led coalition of KC activists seeking to connect the struggles of oppressed communities, locally & globally. Daniel Gum joined us on WMM on November 11, 2020.]

5. Just Angel – “Dumb”

from: “Dumb” – Single / T.A.P. OUT MUSIC/ August 9, 2024
[Just Angel is a Kansas City based, singer, musician, songwriter, dancer. and creative artist. She recently contributed vocals to the recent Sisterbot record. More info at: /distrokid.com/hyperfollow/justangel/just-angel–pt-1: Just Angel: Pt. 2 is a followup to Just Angle Pt.1 – EP released on December 24, 2020 Just Angel is a musician, songwriter, dancer, and creative artist. Just Angel, has been seen on stages of The Barn Players Community Theatre, at Johnson County Arts & Heritage Center in BEAUTIFUL, The Carole King Musical,, The Music Theater Heritage: Ruby Room performance of “Piece of My Heart” in 2023, The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City “After Midnight” in 2022, and playing Osceola Mays in “Texas in Paris” in 2021. Her band, The Wades, can be found playing eclectic takes on pop music, and Just Angel‘s originals, from Part 1 & 2. Her new single “Dumb”, was released August 9, 2024. More at https://linktr.ee/JustAngel_TigerLilyStar%5D

6. Akkilles – “Who I Am”

from: “Who I Am” – Single / David Bennett / July 5, 2024
[Akkilles is the music project of David Bennett who makes music under the moniker Akkilles. He also helps other people make music. Akkilles released “Strange Dream” on July 10, 2024 and “Online” on April 19, 2024 written and produced by David Bennett. Performers include Nick Pickrell on bass, Ian Thompson on synth & keybopards, Baird Williams on lead guitar, Jared Bond on drums, Bryan Koehler on percussion and David Bennett on vocals & rhythm guitar. Recorded at: Aorist Studios in KC. // Akkilles released the single “Way I Feel” on May 5, 2023. Akkilles released the single “Happily” on April 21, 2023. Akkilles released three singles in 2019. “By Myself” – Single was released November 1, 2019. “Meet in the Middle” was released October 25, 2019. “Feelin’ My Self” was released February 1, 2019. Akkilles released the critically acclaimed debut record “Something You’d Say” on July 2, 2013.]

7. Epitome – “Way Up (Radio Edit) feat. Ayron Alexander)”

from: “Way Up” – Single / Syke Brand Music / July 12, 2024
[KC based rapper Glenn Robinson who is known as Epitome. Epitome released his newest 10 track album, BOUJIE TYPE BEAT on February 19, 2024. Since then has released the new single, “Way Up (feat. Ayron Alexander)” on July 12, 2024. A protest of sorts, “WAY UP” is also a celebration of life and all its struggles. The raucous anthem delves into E’s mantra of “once you reach the bottom, the only way is UP!” Featuring the silky, smooth sounds of Ayron Alexander, the layered vocals transform this gritty griot into an alternative pop confection. Since 2016, Epitome has released 3 albums, 4 EPs. 20 singles, collaborating with artists including: The Royal Chief, Domineko, Regina Del Carmen, Amira Wang, VCMN, Scotty Wu, Lex Lingo and others.]

8. Pure xtc – “Fall Apart”

from: “Fall Apart” – Single / Taylor Hughes / March 1, 2024
[Pure XTC released the iongles: “Hurt Me Bad” on Ovember 15, 2024, “Mood Ring” on July 19, 2024. Fall Apart (Soft Faith Remix) on May 17, 2024. Pure XTC released the Shed My Skin EP on November 18, 2022. Pure XTC released the single “Get Lost“ on September 9, 2022, and “Shadow” released June 1, 2022. Pure xtc released the EP Nobody’s Home on November 12, 2021. Pure xtc is the musical project of Kansas City based Taylor Hughes. Taylor is also the drummer for the band EXNATIONS. The idea of pure xtc was formed during an extremely isolating time for multi-instrumentalist, Hughes. Living truly on her own for the first time, she moved to the NYC metro in 2019. Time was spent crying on subways, climbing new rooftops, meeting new people, avoiding new people, feeling extremely fulfilled to feeling like a hollow empty shell.]

9. Stephonne – “1”

from: “1” – Single / Stephonne / August 21, 2024
[Written and Produced by Stephonne Singleton. Additional Production – Justin Mantooth. Engineering, Mixing, and Mastering – Justin Mantooth. Additional Vocal Engineering – Stephonne Singleton. Vocals – Stephonne; Synths, Drum Machine, Keyboard – Stephonne; Guitar – Zachary Arias; Bass – Carly Atwood; Drums – Adam Soliz (McKee); Trombone – Trevor Turla. Recorded, mixed and mastered at Westend Recording Studios, Kansas City. // Stephonne describes himself as the lovechild of Prince & Billie Holiday. He grew up in KCK and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Benedictine College, and Masters in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University. Singer, songwriter, actor, model, artist – Stephonne Singleton keeps very busy, organizing Tribute Shows, working as a Resident Artist at Charlottee Street studios, playing Music Festivals, Lemonade Park, Lawrence Pride, Manor Records, Midwest Music Foundation, The AIDS Service Foundation of KC, InterUrban ArtHouse, The Black Box, The Folly Theatre, collaborating with The Black Creatures, Calvin Arsenia, Miki P, Jass, Eboni Fondren, putting out EPs, and singles. Stephonne released his EP SIS: Side B on June 24, 2022 it was in the TOP TEN of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. Stephonne was a featured performer at the 23rd Annual West 18th Street Fashion Show on Friday, June 2, 2023, and also in the 24th annual West 18th Street Fashion Show.]

#10. Arson Class – “Junior” 


from: “Junior” Single Side A / Too Much Rock / May 3, 2024
[After a four-year break Too Much Rock is back with the eleventh installment of their acclaimed vinyl singles series. For this edition Too Much Rock features the Kansas City blue collar punk trio, Arson Class. This is the first vinyl release for the band. // Sid Sowder is the founder of the Too Much Rock, a music blog site he created in 1997 to share his photos, videos & comments of live music shows he attends. The Too Much Rock Singles Series is a collection of 45 rpm singles that marry great songs with great bands all for the love of vinyl. Each old-school two-song single features one unique song paired with one cover chosen by Too Much Rock who press 500 limited edition copies and then simply give them to the band. Schwervon!, Rev Gusto, Josh Berwanger Band, The Uncouth, Hipshot Killer, Witch Jail, Red Kate, Heidi Lynne Gluck, Brandon Phillips and The Condition, and in 2020 No Germ Candy have all recorded for the Too Much Rock Single Series. More info at: http://www.toomuchrock.com // Arson Class was formed in 2016 with brothers Chris Kinsley and Phil Kinsley and Marc Bollinger on bass.The 3-piece rock band released their self titled EP, Arson Class on May 6, 2017. They released the 5-track EP American Machine on May 6, 2018, recorded at Weights & Measures studio in Kansas City. Arson Class released the single “Rock & Roll” on November 21, 2020. The Band released their single “My Girl” on March 5, 2024. // For the Too Much Rock Single Series The A-Side features the band’s own song, “Junior.” The B-Side features a revved-up cover of John Cougar’s 1976 deep cut “American Dream” chosen by Too Much Rock. The limited-edition 7″ single will be out May 3, 2024 at area record stores, and directly from the band in both black and ultra-limited colored vinyl. // The A-Side features the band’s “Junior.” It’s a highly combustible rock & roll number featuring a breakneck rhythm, a driving guitar, and an anthemic gang chorus. The B-Side features a revved-up cover of John Cougar’s 1976 deep cut “American Dream” chosen by Too Much Rock. The song looks back on a gloriously misspent youth, pushes aside the stability of a 9-to-5 future, and aims for that big break. // The limited-edition 7″ single was released 5/3/24 at area record stores, online retailers, in both black and ultra-limited colored vinyl.]

11. Dragon Inn 3 – “Clock Machine”

from: “Clock Machine” – Single / American Laundromat Records / August 23, 2024
[Clock Machine: Performed by Dragon Inn 3: Drums by Nick Wilkerson. Mixed by Scoops Dardaris. Produced by Philip Dickey. Side B: “All I Know.” Performed by Dragon Inn 3. Produced and mixed by Philip Dickey. Mastered by Sean Glonek at SRG studios. Design and Layout by Emily Only Design Co. // Last year Dragon Inn 3 released Trade Secrets on American Laundromat Records on April 18, 2023, their long-anticipated sophomore release from Dragon Inn 3. Features 10 brand new songs plus a fantastic cover of Yazoo’s “Only You.” // Dragon Inn 3 is: Grace Bentley on vocals; Philip Dickey on synths, drums, guitar, bass & vocals; Sharon Hamm on synths & vocals; David Hill on vocals & synths. Recorded from 2018 to 2022 at Davey’s house and Sharon’s house. Recorded, mixed, and produced by Philip Dickey. Additional recording and mixing help from Ross Brown, David Hill, and Chase Horseman. Mastered by Sean Glonek at SRG studios. Additional musicians: Bill Belzer percussion “I Can’t Stop”, John Cardwell guitar “Finally Going Down”, Ben Collins guitar “I Can’t Stop”, Tim Gillespie saxophone “I Can’t Stop” “Out Of Control” “Trade Secrets Theme”, Anita Kitungano vocals “See It Your Way”, John O’Hallaron guitar “Teleport”, Bora Wilondja vocals “See It Your Way” “Trade Secrets Theme”, Mauwa Wilondja vocals “Trade Secrets Theme”, Pelo Wilondja percussion “I Could Never”. Additional writers: Emma Bentley Ruzicka “Not Enough”, Bora Wilondja “See It Your Way”, JR Top “See It Your Way”, and Vincent Clark “Only You”. Cover photo: Dominik Podlipniak. Design: Dustin Williams. // Kansas City based band formed in 2012 with Grace Bentley, Sharon Bowie, Philip K. Dickey, E.P. Marcus. Dragon Inn 3’s debut LP DOUBLE LINE on August 17, 2018 through American Laundromat records. DOUBLE LINE was part of WMM’s 118 Best Recordings of 2018. The band spent six years whittling away on the songs. Combining sugary pop hooks, hypnotic beats, and huge MOOG synths, Dragon Inn 3’s playful take on 80s pop could double as the soundtrack to a John Hughes movie (if John Hughes directed Blade Runner). The cinematic origins of Dragon Inn 3 can be traced back to 2012, when Philip Dickey (leader of the indie-pop group, Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin) wrote a theme song for the award-winning short film Ghoul School. “If you watch the trailer you can tell it’s the same premise and look as Stranger Things–we just accidentally made it three years before them,” Dickey says. “I had so much fun making the soundtrack with the director (E.P. Marcus) that we decided to start a band.” Dickey recruited his sister, Sharon Bowie, an occupational therapist, and his wife, children’s librarian Grace Bentley, to help with songwriting and vocal duties. The group self-released the Ghoul School Soundtrack EP in late 2012, receiving high praise from Consequence of Sound, Philadelphia’s WXPN, and The Riverfront Times, before climbing to #1 on Bandcamp’s cassette charts. Then it was back to the studio (i.e. the bedrooms, kitchens, garages, and hotel rooms that doubled as makeshift recording studios). In between full-time jobs, parenthood, graduate school classes, and cross country moves, the members of Dragon Inn 3 put Double Line to tape. “I’m a stay-at-home dad now, so I would work on song arrangements and rough mixes when our toddler was taking his naps,” explains Dickey. “Grace would come home from work and record all her parts after his bedtime. We recorded all the breathy vocals in the living room and all the yelly parts in the garage so we wouldn’t wake him up.” The result is a highly addictive album that creates “a soundtrack for the more introspective moments on and off the dance floor,” according to critic David Greenwald. With members spread out over the country (KC, LA, and Springfield, MO), the group signed to American Laundromat Records in early 2018. A demo of “Bad Boy” (co-written with Free Energy’s Paul Sprangers) landed in a commercial for Ryan Adams’ Beats 1 Radio show before the song was even completed. More Info at: http://www.dragoninn3.com] [Philip Dicky joined us LIVE on WMM on May 3, 2023.]

12. Monta At Odds – “Forget About You (Religion of Heartbreak remix)”

from: “Forget About You (R.O.H. remix)” – Single / The Record Machine / Sept. 4, 2024
Monta At Odds released their single “Forget About You” on April 12, 2024 with Mikal Shapiro on vocals, Krysztof Nemeth wielding the baritone guitar, and founding member Dedric Moore polymathing on all other sonics. // On August 9, 2024 Dedric Moore on vocals, synths, bass, guitar, programming; Mikal Shapiro on vocals; Krysztof Nemeth on baritone guitar; Delaney Moore on synth riff; Regan Moore on electronic percussion loop, released the single “Dark Hour of Meditation” as Religion of Heartbreak. // Religion of Heartbreak, an offshoot of Monta At Odds, dives deep into darkwave and EBM territories, crafting a sound that’s nostalgic and cutting-edge. For fans of Depeche Mode, Boy Harsher, and The Soft Moon, this remix offers a fresh take on the dark side of dance music.// Monta At Odds’ “Forget About You” gets a dark nightclub makeover in this haunting remix by Religion of Heartbreak. The post-punkers strip down the original’s sound and rebuilds it as a brooding synthpop masterpiece, perfect for late-night dance floors and introspective listening. The remix retains the original’s raw emotion while adding layers of pulsating beats and atmospheric synths. Mikal’s yearning vocals float above Krysztof’s ringing baritone guitar and Dedric’s mechanized rhythms, creating an ominous earworm that’s impossible to shake. Exploring themes of dangerous attraction and the transformative power of heartbreak, this one’s tailor-made for those nights when forgetting is the only option // Monta released their EP Crystal Momentum on March 24, 2023. The band released the single “Looking Back” on February 27, 2023, and “Everybody’s Baby” on January 27, 2023. Monta’s latest, the Crystal Momentum EP, hones the Kansas City band’s mastery of electrified dreamworld post-punk, presenting four spacious songs to accompany out-of-body explorations. Monta’s core players — Mikal Shapiro on vocals, Krysztof Nemeth and Lucas Behrens on guitars, Dedric Moore on electronics, Matthew Heinrich on drums, and Teri Quinn with additional vocals — accompany their visions with a groovy flow that rings with subtle tensions, introspective instrumentation, and chorus-fed uplifts. // Found within are “Everybody’s Baby,” an otherworldly adoration of unnamed strangers set to transfixing melodies and a snake-like groove; the buoyant “Looking Back,” which shines a danceable, sonic brightness through a haze of ecstatic reminiscence; the inspired “Perimeter Dancer,” an ode to those who fight for the cause, accompanied by a punky disco beat and a chorus that launches the song upward to a mirror-ball-lit sky. And then there’s “Luna Lost In Your Gaze,” a righteous desert sleepwalk of a tune that recalls the spaghetti western tones of Monta’s past while remaining on the current trajectory. // With the Crystal Momentum EP, Monta grabs the moment, further defining the distinctive mix of synth-pop and dark psychedelia that’s become the band’s trademark. Take a leap and fall into their world. // Monta means “to climb higher.” Through lineup changes and scenes ebbing and flowing, this band continues that climb. Founded by brothers Dedric and Delaney Moore, Monta (originally Monta At Odds) has grown into its own community with a rotating cast of musicians and characters. More Information at: kosmiccity.com / therecordmachine.co] [[Dedric Moore joined us on WMM on Oct. 4, 2023] [Religion of Heartbreak played minibar, 3810 Broadway KCMO, on Oct. 23, 2024, w/ Belgium-based Ultra Sunn and Juliette Frost.]

13. VCMN & Joel Leoj – “Fab (Vmix)”

from: Fab (Vmix) – Single / VCMN Music / September 2, 2024
[VCMN released the single “Fab” on July 26, 2024. VCMN release the single, “Boounce (Remix) [feat. Amira Wang & The Epitome] on August 11, 2023. VCMN released their debut album entitled “The VCMN Project” on Friday, May 13, 2022. VCMN is an American singer-songwriter duo who’s artistry is shaped by way of edgy, alternative R&B, Pop, and Rock. Victoria and Emmanuel “Manny” Cable—aka the “Vic” and “Man” of VCMN. Victoria grew up in the Bethel International Center of Worship church in Kansas City, Kansas, where her father, Cleveland Drone, was a pastor. From the ages of 10-19, she toured across the country singing gospel music. Manny came to performance via a different path: ballet and modern dance. They’ve been working it out with the rhythms and the rhymes for years now. VCMN Project was first birthed into existence when they were still dating; the album was finished after they were married. It all began on their living room sofa. The VCMN Project is just as much a party as it is a beautifully written love story. The 10-track “The VCMN Project” encompasses a song from every top 40 music genre. R&B, Rap, Pop, Alternative Rock, Ballad, Country, Hip Hop, and Dance Pop. VCMN played Lawrence Gay Pride, presented by I Heart Local Music. Fri. June 24, 2022 at Lucia, 1016 Mass with Cuee & Friends. INFOt: http://www.vcmnofficial.com%5D%5D

#14. Kemet Coleman – “Android (feat. FlareThaRebel & Kadesh Flow)”


from: “Android (feat. FlareThaRebel & Kadesh Flow)” – Single / Kemet Creative / April 26, 2024
[Kemet Coleman is a Kansas City based musicians and is a member of the Hip-Hop duo COA (Center of Attention) and is the lead singer of the Funk/Rap/Soul band The Phantastics. Kemet is also a core element of The Marcus Lewis Big Band for Brass & Boujee. Kemet is a two time Pitch Music Award nominee for “Best Hip-Hop Act.” Kemet is known for his unprecedented collaborations with UMKC, KC Streetcar and The Kansas City Royals. He is also highly regarded for his impresario role within the Sly James for Mayor Campaign in the 2010-2011 where he created the first ever KC mayoral candidate rap song. A UMKC alumnus, Kemet, created “Gold and Blue” for UMKC’s sports teams, which has garnered thousands of plays on YouTube and has been featured on prime-time television commercials for the university. In 2020 Coleman contributed his song, “The Virus” to the compilation, Kansas City Syzygy, music created by over 25 KC-based musicians in the middle of the map of a pandemic. All proceeds donated to KC Tenants, a local nonprofit organized to ensure that everyone has a safe, accessible, affordable home. Kemet Coleman released, BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL on Aug. 1, 2020. Kenet Coleman released the single “Eyes On The Srtreet” on May 21, 2021. The Phantastics released their single “All That Fine”on May 6, 2022. The Phantastics are an 8 member band from KC formed in December of 2010. Kemet the Phantom on lead vocals; originally Leigh Gibbs on lead vocals; JJ Cantrell on lead guitar & vocals; Danny Florez on electric bass; Ashley Thompson on drums, DJ Mitchell on saxophone; Ryan Jamaal Davis on Trombone and rap vocals; Austin Quick on keyboards. The Phantastics specialize in genre-blending dance floor activators. In 2015, the music group was crowned “Kansas City’s best party band” by the KC Star. Musicianship and diversity are at the core of their success. Rock, Rap, Dance, Funk, Jazz & Soul are all incorporated into their music. “The band that can do it all”, according to I Heart Local Music, has shared the stage with some of music’s most legendary acts including George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic. On Oct. 18, 2019 The Phantastics released LIVE AT THE PLAZA ART FAIR. On Aug. 24, 2018. The Phantastics released the EP, LIFE OF THE PARTY. On Dec. 14, 2013 The Phantastics released their debut album THE CLOSER. Info at: http://www.thephantastics.com]

15. Mikal Shapiro & The Musical – “Sunshine Lover”

from: “Sunshine Lover” – Single / Mikal Shapiro / November 15, 2024
[Mikal wrote to me to tell me that “The song is inspired by the counterculture, anti-establishment musicals of the 60/70s like Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar.” Recorded with The Musical. Music and lyrics by Mikal Shapiro. The Musical is: Mikal Shapiro on vocal & guitar, Chad Brothers on vocals & guitar, Johnny Hamil on bass, and Matt Richey on drums. Featuring harmonies by: Erika Cecilia Noguera, Beth Watts Nelson. Harmony arrangements by: Beth Watts Nelson. Recorded at Weights and Measure Sound Lab. Engineered by Duane Trower. Made possible with the generous support of Jean and Steve Spikes. Currently available on Bandcamp. // Mikal Shapiro & The Musical released THE MUSICAL II on May 26, 2018. It was The sequel to Shapiro’s 2015 concept album “THE MUSICAL” Mikal Shapiro, on vocals & guitar, Chad Brothers on vocals & guitar, Johnny Hamil on bass, and Matt Richey on drums. Special guests include: Hermon Mehari on trumpet, Tina Bilberry on viola & violin, Damon Parker on keyboards, and Lauren Hughes on vocals. Engineered and co-produced by Joel Nanos at Element Recording & Mastering Studios. Mikal Shapiro is a KC songwriter whose musical influences span popular songs, psych rock, lounge, classic country and old time spirituals. She has toured extensively across the U.S. and has recorded five critically acclaimed albums. KC Star and Tim Finn declared her album “The Musical” to be one of his top five releases of 2015. A third generation storyteller, she draws inspiration from her travels, love life, and the state of the Union. More info at: http://www.themusicaltheband.com]

16. The Freedom Affair – “If You Don’t Want Me”

from: “If You Don’t Want Me” – Single / Sunflower Soul Records / May 15, 2024
[The Freedom Affair is a 9 piece soul juggernaut from Kansas City, MO. The band formed in 2017 with a vision to write original soul music inspired by the traditions of the genre’s past with a universal message looking toward the future. Their new single “If You Don’t Want Me” features: Shon Ruffin on vocals, Seyko Groves on vocals, Paula Saunders on vocals, Cole Bales on guitar, Branden Moser on guitar, Chris Hazelton on bass, Dave Brick on drums, Pete Carroll on trumpet, Brett Jackson on tenor Sax, Pat Conway on congas, and Nick Howell on tambourine. Written, Recorded & Mixed by Chris Hazelton. Mastered by JJ Golden // With their debut album FREEDOM IS LOVE, The Freedom Affair has received critical acclaim and have established themselves as a force in the soul music scene across the states and abroad. Keep your eyes and ears open for their songs and album art featured in the series Bel-Air, an Apple commercial, a Netflix series, etc… This band is just getting started. // The Freedom Affair’s live shows have proven to be soul-stirring, transformative events moving audiences both physically and emotionally to joy. // The Freedom Affair released their debut album Freedom Is Love on September 25, 2020. from The album explores themes of love, heartache, empower-ment, and togetherness through a varying landscape of hard-hitting funk, luscious soul, and everything in between. The album was recorded and produced by Chris Hazelton, utilizing the best of vintage and new recording techno-logies to create an authentic experience, befitting of a soul record that would have been relevant 50 years ago as much as it will be 50 years from now. For the debut record The Freedom Affair was: Misha Roberts on vocals; Paula Saunders on vocals; Seyko Groves on vocals; Cole Bales on guitar, sitar (Track 3); Branden Moser on guitar; Chris Hazelton on bass guitar, organ (Tracks 1, 2, 9, & 10), Tambourine (Track 1), Glockenspiel (Track 3), & Chimes (Track 4); Dave Brick on drums; Pete Carroll on trumpet; Brett Jackson on tenor sax, baritone sax (Tracks 1 & 5), & tambourine (Tracks 5, 6, & 8). Additional Musicians: Pat Conway on Congas (Tracks 1, 3, & 6), Alyssa Bell on viola (Tracks 3, 4, & 7), Elizabeth Codd on violin (Tracks 3 & 4), Matt Bennett on violin (Tracks 3 & 7), John Wickersham on timpani (Track 4), Pamela Baskin-Watson on piano (Track 10), Nick Howell on tambourine (Track 10), The Freedom Family Choir (Track 10): Misha Roberts, Erica Hazelton, Seyko Groves, Paula Saunders, Jordyn Saunders, Cole Bales, and Chris Hazelton. All Horn & String Arrangements by Chris Hazelton except: “Heartaches Don’t Come Easy” and “Give A Little Love” by Pete Carroll & Brett Jackson “Don’t Shoot” by Chris Hazelton & Allyssa Bell. Produced, Recorded, & Mixed by Chris Hazelton. Assistant Produced by Dave Brick. Rhythm Section on Track 10 recorded by Chad Meise. Mastered by JJ Golden. Cover Artwork by Matthew “Mo” Manley. Front cover photograph of civil rights protesters in Kansas City, MO (April 9th, 1968). The Freedom Affair and their track “Rise Up” were selected to be part of Colemine Records 3xLP box set, “Soul Slabs Vol. 2” a Record Store Day Exclusive, released April 13, 2019. Colemine writes: “The Freedom Affair is a freight train of KC soul! Dirty, funky drums, gritty horns. The Freedom Affair played The 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest.]

17. The Forcefields – “Slip Away”

from: “Slip Away” – Single / Frickin’ Awesome Records / February 27, 2024
[The Forcefields is a brand new project, a new cosmosonic collaboration between Julia Othmer and James T Lundie AKA Aayama & Max Forcefield. The Forcefields presented TRANSMISSION where they debuted for Charlotte Street’s series, In(SITE), highlighting local, regional, and national acts at pivotal points in their practices. In a multidisciplinary collaboration with artists Simon Huntley, Sarah Hearn, and Mikal Shapiro, Transmission is an exploration of cosmic vibrations and soundscapes in a stunning one-night-only production.]

18. Lava Dreams – “Driver”

from: “Driver” – Single / Lava Dreams / May 24th, 2024
[The alternative pop anthem – produced by Spencer Hoad and written by Lava Dreams – brandishes hard-hitting drums, funky bass lines, and powerful vocals.You just heard the voice of Lava Dreams (she/they) a queer, multidisciplinary artist, performer, and songwriter based in Kansas City, Missouri – who’s been writing music for as long as they can remember.​ Flourishing dreamy vocals, vulnerable lyrics, and visceral rhythms- hooking listeners through catchy melodies and electric performances – Lava Dreams is quickly becoming a striking figure in the Alternative Pop scene. Her 2020 project “GOOD ENERGY + FOCUS,” was praised by 90.9 The Bridge as one of the best EPs of that year and was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2020. Since then, Lava has written and released a series of evolving singles – the latest of which is an alternative pop-rock anthem called “YOUR WARRIOR.” She directed and starred in the music video that accompanied its release.​ Lava Dreams is dedicated to writing songs that lift the spirit and connect to the soul. You can listen to Lava Dreams everywhere you stream music. More info at: http://www.lavadreamsmusic.com]

19. Calvin Arsenia – “Glory Box (Great Big Panda Version)”

from: Glory Box (Great Big Panda Version) / Calvin Arsenia / July 2, 2024
[While Calvin has several albums of original songs he is also know for his dynamic covers of “Toxic”, “Psycho Killer” and “Case of You.” Here he covers, “Glory Box” a song by English electronic band Portishead, released on January 3, 1994 by Go! Beat as the third and final single from their debut album, Dummy (1994). It samples “Ike’s Rap II” by Isaac Hayes and peaked at number 13 on the UK Singles Chart. Additionally, the song was a top 10 hit in Iceland, while entering the top 20 in France, Ireland and Scotland. Beth Gibbons has said it is a misinterpretation to see the lyrics as a demand for a return to more traditional masculine and feminine roles. She has said “The key line in the song really is “Move over and give us some room” because I do think that women are very much taken for granted. // On June 23 2023 Calvin released his 14 track album Paraduise. It is only available through http://www.calvinarsenia.com // A new turning point as a songwriter. His most biographical album yet, with songs about Black Lives Matter, Racism, The Police, being on probation, gay love. The album contains collaborations with Cheery, Kadesh Flow and Jametatone. Calvin Arsenia one of our most frequent guests, who first appeared on WMM on July 25, 2012. KC Magazine has hailed Calvin as ‘equal parts opera, symphony, musical theatre, rock show, all built around its creator: a charismatic 6-foot-7-inch harpist with a 3 and ½ octave range, natural stage command and knack for gilding gold and painting lilies.’ Born in Orlando, Florida, Calvin’s creative journey began when he moved to Olathe, Kansas, teaching himself the guitar, piano, banjo. He learned his signature instrument, the harp, at the age of 20. His passion for stretching the boundaries of musical expression saw him transform a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland’s Fringe Festival early in his career into a life-changing music mission, with an Edinburgh church offering him a role as musical liaison between the church and the city that would change his life. Two years and 300 shows later, Calvin returned to KC reborn as a humanistic songwriter / performer where at 24 he released his EP, Moments, in 2014, and his EP Prose in 2015, and his Folk Alliance exclusive EP Catastrophe in 2016. On February 14, 2017 Calvin released his critically acclaimed full length debut, Catastrophe, with a live show at recordBar in November 2016 that involved a company of 50 people, dancers, stilt walkers. After signing to Center Cut Records, Calvin released the albums: Cantaloupe in 2018, with a sold out gigantic spectical at The Gem Theatre on Saturday, September 15, 2018. He then released, L.A. Sessions in 2019, and the EP HONEY DEW, and the EP Goddess with Quixotic, the Holiday album, ALL IS CALM. In 2020 Calvin collaborated with Mike Dillon on the Soundtrack to “Summer in Hindsight,” a feature-length film created by The West 18th Street Fashion Show that starred Calvin as an actor. Calvin is also the co-creator of the podcast “We Were Christian Kids” created with childhood friend Justin Randall who is a stand up comedian working in New York City and now Los Angeles. Calvin is also the published author of VERY GOOD BOY DOES FINE, a collection of Poetry & Prose published on October 5, 2021, by Andrews McMeel Universal. Calvin was voted KC’s Best Musician in The Pitch 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022. He has been featured in Billboard, NPR.org. Charlotte Street Foundation announced that the recipients of the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards are The Black Creatures and Calvin Arsenia Scott.] [Calvin Arsenia played a PARADISE Album Release Party, Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24, at 7:00 PM at The Emerald, 1715 West 9th Street, KCMO, WEST BOTTOMS. Calvin Arsenia was our guest on WMM on Jan. 18, 2023, June 21, 2023, and our 1000th Show on June 28, 2923.]

20. Kadesh Flow – “Overcome (Nanami)”

from: “Overcome (Nanami)” – Single / Ryan Jamaal Davis / January 1, 2024
[Instrumental/Verses/Hook/Trombone/Mixed/Mastered by Kadesh Flow≥ On Friday, January 19, 2024 Kadesh Flow releases another new single “Stand on Business”. On November 17, 2023 Kadesh Flow released “Stakes” produced by Dominique Sanders (who received a Grammy nomination for Album of the Year for his work on Janelle Monae’s “AGE OF PLEASURE album.) // On January 6, 2023 Kadesh Flow released “Switch Up” with Instrumental Production by Dominique Sanders, Written & Performed by: Kadesh Flow, Mixed by: Kadesh Flow, Mastered by: Kadesh Flow. // In 2022 Kadesh Flow released 6 singles starting with “Move Different (feat. Gr3s0n)” on January 21, 2022, with lyrics by Kadesh Flow & Gr3ys0n. Music by Kadesh Flow. Mixing: Kadesh Flow. Mastering: Kadesh Flow and was released on January 21, 2022. :Move Different” was part of WMM’s 50 Favorite Singles of 2022. On October 21, 2022 Kadesh Flow released the single ”Chill (feat. Mir Blackwell).” On October 10, 2022 Kadesh Flow released “Dream For Me.” On September 30, 2022 Marcus Lewis Big Band released the single, “You’re Very Special (feat. Kemet Coleman, Kadesh Flow & Kevin Church Johnson).” On July 1, 2022 Kadesh Flow released the single “Away From You.”About that single Kadesh told us “I’ve been a little quiet from a release standpoint because I’ve been scoring a feature length film.” “This song is… inspired by Eren Yeager and his tragic, brutal journey in Attack on Titan but is also deeply personal to me. There’s a lot of current world problem glazing that I’m doing on it as well.” “Also, June 30, 2022, marks five years since I left my financial tech career to pursue my performing and recording artist career full time. I’m releasing this on July 1, partially in celebration of that milestone.” This was one of over nearly 30 new singles Kadesh Flow released in 24 months: In 2021 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 & 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 Marc written, produced, performed, mixed & mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released, “Your Dream Isn’t Always Yours,” on March 12, 2021, written, produced, performed, mixed & 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 & 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 & mastered by Kadesh Flow, and produced by Dominique “Bassman” Saunders. Kadesh Flow released the new single, “So Far” on April 23, 2021, written, performed, mixed & mastered by Kadesh Flow and produced by Dominique “Bassman” Sanders. Kadesh Flow released the single, “On Target” on April 30, 2021, written, produced, performed, mixed and mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released the single ”Lighten Up”on May 7, 2021, written, produced, performed, mixed & mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released the single “Elegant” on May 21, 2021. Written, Produced, Performed, Mixed & Mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released the 13-track album ROOM SERVICE 2, on July 19, 2021. Kadesh Flow released the single “Coming For Your Neck” on August 20, 2021. Written, Produced, Performed, Mixed & Mastered by Kadesh Flow. Kadesh Flow released the single “Easy” on August 27, 2021. Written, Produced, Performed, Mixed & Mastered by Kadesh Flow. This is his 18th single the year. Kadesh Flow released the single “Fiend” on Sept. 4, 2021. Written, Performed, Mixed & Mastered by Kadesh Flow. Produced by Dominique Sanders. This is his 19th single the year. le, “Gardens Out The Gutter” on Dec. 3, 2021. Written, Performed, Mixed & Mastered: Kadesh Flow. Instrumental: Dominique Sanders. Kadesh Flow released the single, “CHOICE (The Cost)” on December 17, 2021. Written, Performed, Mixed & Mastered: Kadesh Flow. Instrumental: Dominique Sanders. 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 plays with The Phantastics, Marcus Lewis Big Band, and Deshica Rage (w/ Jessica Paige). Info at: http://www.kadeshflow.com]

21. Keo & Them – “Fire”

from: “Fire” – Single / Midtopia / March 15, 2024
[Keo & Them released their 7-track album, THIS TIME AROUND on October 28, 2023. // When Neo-soul meets funk, meets R&B, meets pop, meets hip hop & even rock sometimes. Keo & Them released the single “Fool Me Once” on October 6, 2023 on Midtopia. Leo & Them released the three song single “Don’t Say” with “Be Still” and “Money Grooves (feat. Greg Spero)” on June 2, 2023 on Midtopia. And earlier “Money Grooves (feat. Greg Spero)” was release by itself on March 2, 2023. For Wichita-based, Texas-raised singer/songwriter Keo, making music is as much about the one creates and the songs one writes as it is about making deeper connections with the other people partaking in an artistic journey. From the unique flavors, perspectives, and performances they each contribute, Keo finds the “Them” that brings her project Keo & Them full circle. // First formed and conceptualized by Keo in 2018, the collective consists of Keo and a revolving door of musicians and collaborators, each of whose contributions would leave an indelible mark on the project’s ever-adapting sound that merges the worlds of 70’s pop and R&B with the moody glow of contemporary neo-soul and beyond. For Keo, the project’s sole constant member, the fluid line-up allowed her to become immersed and acquainted with a Wichita music scene she was completely new to and overwhelmed by. Through meeting, jamming, and performing with the Kansas town’s tight-knit and eclectic music scene in which Keo found something akin to a family. More info at: https://linktr.ee/keoandthem [Keo & Them played Outer Reaches Fest, on Sat, Oct. 14 at recordBar, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/ Sweeping Promises, Static Phantoms, Alyssa Murray.] [Keo & Them plays the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, Sat, Aug. 24, at 6:45 PM on the Livestock Exchange – From The Earth / Illicit Stage, 1600 Genessee St. w/ Western Cuts, Rachel Maxann, Jamogi, Back Alley Brass Band, Flight Attendant, KC March Falcons and KC Marching Cobras.]

22. Field Daze – “Hate Me”

from: “Hate Me” – Single / Solstice Audio / September 13, 2024
[1 of 10 singles Field Daze has released in the last 2 years. Field Daze, is an Indie Rock/Dreampop band, originated in KCMO when Rodd Fenton & Dan Camino responded to a Facebook call to start a Dreampop band. Their collaboration led to the creation of early demos. Shortly after, they were joined by Tracer Cauy, Kyer Lasswell, & Beau Harris, solidifying the band’s lineup. // Their magnetic sound quickly found a home in the KC music community, playing The Rino, The Ship, and The Bottleneck. Field Daze’s live performances became synonymous with an immersive musical experience, drawing in crowds with their captivating melodies. // Currently, the band channels their creativity by recording homegrown tracks within Rodd Fenton’s personal studio, honing their craft and evolving their unique sound. More Info at: http://www.fielddazekc.com Field Daze play The Ship, 1221 Union, KCMO on Nov. 15 w/ The Highwater and Black Light Animals]

23. Jamogi – “Hot Block”

from: “Hot Block” – Single / Jam Tunes / May 30, 2024
[Jamogi is also know as Byron Hyde a Kanas City based singer, songwriter, MC, producer, originally from Los Angeles, California. Jamogi released the EP, Star-Crossed Lover on March 3, 2023. Jamogi then released a “Star-Crossed Lover GALACTIC REMIX (feat. Watchman)” single on June 9, 2023.Jamogi previously released the AGE OF AQUARIUS EP on March 3, 2023, and the single “Celebration” on December 9, 2022, and the single “Anymore” on May 6, 2022.][Jamogi played the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, Saturday, Aug. 24, on the Livestock Exchange – From The Earth / Illicit Stage, 1600 Genessee St. w/ Western Cuts, Rachel Maxann, Keo & Them, Back Alley Brass Band, and Flight Attendant, KC March Falcons and KC Marching Cobras.]

24. LYXE – “Hard To Talk”

from: “Hard To Talk” – Single / LYXE / October 4, 2024
[Ryan Wise (of The Sluts) on vocals, Jimmy Girod on percussion, AJ Knudson on bass,. This indie/alternative rock band LYXE, hailing from Lawrence, Kansas, is thrilled to announce the release of their highly anticipated new single, “Hard To Talk.” This catchy track captures the essence of modern rock while weaving in nostalgic threads reminiscent of the vibrant sounds of the 80s. With its infectious guitar riffs and punchy rhythms, “Hard To Talk” is poised to resonate with fans of both contemporary hits and classic indie anthems, drawing comparisons to iconic bands like The Strokes. // “Hard To Talk” showcases LYXE’s signature sound, blending the jangly guitars and punchy drum patterns that evoke the playful energy of 80s rock while maintaining a fresh and modern vibe. The band’s unique approach to songwriting shines through as they tackle themes of communication and vulnerability. This dynamic new single encapsulates the essence of youthful exploration and the struggles of navigating relationships in today’s fast-paced world. // Lawrence, Kansas band LYXE is a band with big guitars, a driving backbeat, and a glowing purple neon sign. Formed in 2019, they’re an energetic three-piece whose music blends the best of modern rock radio with danceable ’80s New Wave. If Wavves listened to a lot of early INXS, the music they made would sound like LYXE. I Heart Local Music describes them as “…easily Lawrence’s most exciting band at the moment, and they prove it with every show.” // LYXE, a three piece pop-rock outfit formed out of the love of getting fans to sing and dance along to hip shaking rhythms reminiscent of classic 80’s and 90’s sounds. They quickly became a favorite of crowds and musicians alike with the lead of Ryan Wise’s crooning vocals and vintage guitar sounds. The trio has an undeniable chemistry that caught the local scene like wildfire. Bassist AJ Knudson brings a loveable charisma to their live presence, while drummer Jimmy Girod’s subtle, elegant delivery gives this act a sophisticated backbone. // In their debut EP, Everything You Could Ever Want, LYXE strives to create an infectious party environment that hips cannot deny. Pulling inspiration from a wide range of genres, this six-song EP has a pop-rock, new wave nostalgia that sinks its teeth into you. Luring in listeners with dramatics and lush hooks on “Wave,” yet unafraid to tap into their feral side on “I Got Everything.” The record closes with “Fit,” which makes you feel like you’re in an argument with your prom date in 1989. In July of 2022, LYXE recorded their debut EP, Everything You Could Ever Want, at Element Recording Studios in Kansas City. The new EP gave listeners a different side of Wise’s songwriting with crooning vocals and vintage guitar sounds. .The EP was released on September 15, 2022. // On June 23, 2023 LYXE released a remastered version of their song “Wave (Remastered 2023)” produced by Joel Nanos. Remaster by Jake Vertigo, with: Ryan Wise (of The Sluts) on vocals, Jimmy Girod on percussion, AJ Knudson on bass, and Chase Horseman on synthesizer. This was originally the debut single “Wave.” // LYXE release their singe ”Ice Cream” on June 23, 2023 // For additional information or inquiries please contact: wearelyxe@gmail.com ]

#25. Cavves – “Alma Mater”


from: “Alma Mater” – Single / The Cavve / September 6, 2024
[Since 2016, Wichita’s The Cavves have served as the foremost purveyors of land-locked surf music. Packing an anthemic indie rock/pop wallop within a sun-soaked package of summery guitars, vibrant soundscapes, and an undeniable lyrical bite, the band oozes with character and creativity both on and off the stage. With two albums under its belt and an expertly honed live show (which has performed alongside Together PANGEA, Silvers Pickups, The Regrettes, Slothrust, and more), the quartet of Sophie Emerson (guitar, vocals), Matt Clara Bennett (guitar), Jackson Relph (drums), Justin Labadie (bass) has established itself as a staple in Wichita’s and the greater Midwest’s bustling indie music scene.]

26. Malek Azrael – “in ur mind”

from: “in ur mind” – Single / Malek Azrael / March 1, 2024
[On October 15, 2021 Makek Azrael released his 10-track album debut. Male Azrael lives in KCMO. He has worked for Boys Grow, and is currently working with touring. Malek Azrael has been involved with Making Movies non-profit organization Art As Mentorship. He sometimes plays with Making Movies and played the Ameri-Kana Fest. Malek Azrael played KKFI’s 18th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, on Aug. 27, at The Black Box, in West Bottoms. [Malek Azrael played Manor Feet 6, Saturday, June 1, at 1:00pm at Third Place Lounge, 1744 Broadway Blvd KCMO with Mason Blaize and Nick Shoulders] [Malek & The Vibez played Boulevardia Festival at Crown Center, on Friday, June 16.]

27. Jo MacKenzie – “Newly Fallen Snow”

from: “Newly Fallen Snow” – Single / Middle of The Map Music / April 12, 2024
[Jo MacKenzie also released “infinite (DEMOS)” on August 16, 2024, “Etch a sketch” on July 19, 2024, and Magellan on June 14, 2024. Just a 20 year old girl who wants to make music forever. Jo Mackenzie released the single “So Much More” on February 14, 2024. // Jo Mackenzie released the 5-track EP RADIANCE, GIRL on July 15, 2022. // Jo Mackenzie released the single “The Cab Ride” on June 17, 2022. // Jo Mackenzie released the single “Radiator” on May 27, 2022. // Before that on March 11, 2022, Jo Mackenzie (producer and songwriter) released the EP, TOURIST. Jo Mackenzie and Dia Jane (singer/songwriter) released the EP, BRAINBABY on September 5, 2021. The two met at an open mic in Kansas City, Missouri, when Jo was in 8th grade and Dia was in 10th grade. Three years later, the two reconnected to started a musical project together that eventually turned into Baby and the Brain, a self-produced indie-pop band. In 2020 Kansas City based singer songwriter, Jo MacKenzie released this year now collected together in a 5 -song EP, written, performed and produced by Jo MacKenzie. Mixed by Harper James. Jo MacKenzie released her Debut EP Proud on November 17, 2018. Along with Proud, Jo Mackenzie released the single “Just Like Rain” on August 18, 2018; “I Should Come with a Warning Sign” on September 28, 2019; and “Alaska” on November 23, 2019 and the single “Suicide Season” on February 1, 2020, and the single “Lose My Face” on April 24, 2020. Info at http://www.jomackenzie.com]

28. Danny McGaw – “Start Over”

from: “Start Over” – Single / Danny McGaw / July 25, 2024
[Manchester, England born Danny McGaw was a footballer, then a street musician, then a bar musician, and then a husband and father living in Lawrence, Kansas, where he released one of our favorite recordings of 2012 called, “Eccles Road.” After that he formed the band, Welles The Traveler with Jason Jones, Dan Hines, Chad Brothers, and Mike West, who produced the group’s debut recording. Eventually Danny and family relocated to California. He has made over 10 records in 25 years and records his songs in his home studio.][Danny McGaw plays the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, Sat, August 24, at 4:45pm, on the The Campground – KKFI 90.1 FM Stage, 1531 Genessee St. with: Jelly Rose, Zee Underscore, Starhaven Rounders, Aztlán, and Supermassive Black Holes.]

29. Christena Graves – “One Good Thing”

from: “One Good Thing” – Single /Junco Records / February 24, 2024
[On August 3, 2023 Christena Graves released the single “Summer’s End.” // On June 28, 2023 Christena Graves released “Swingin’ On The Stars.” // Christena Graves released her album, FINDING MY FOOTING on February 11, 2021. It was one of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2021. Christena Graves writes songs in order to make sense of her world. Her lyrics are a mixture of a heartfelt acknowledgment of the pain and suffering in life, balanced by the steadying force of committed relationships. Growing up in a coastal area of western Michigan, Christena draws from her deep connection with the natural world to help frame the difficulty of the human emotional landscape. “Nature brings focus for me. I rely on it to color my lyrics.” She found her musical beginning learning to sing harmonies with her older brothers and sisters. Music was an important part of her family and they would often sing hymns together. She fondly remembers the day her oldest brother sat her on the kitchen counter and taught her to sing harmony to Jingle Bells. It was a moment that gave fuel to her love of singing. // After leaving Michigan to attend college in Missouri, she met her husband Brandon and joined the band Waterdeep as the keyboard player. After touring for several years, she stepped away from the band to raise their children. Songwriting became a release to help process the struggles of life. Eventually, she was writing songs for her church community and helping lead music on Sunday mornings. Once the kids were old enough, Christena and Brandon decided to form a new project and return to making music in a bigger way. // 2019 marked the beginning of the Christena Graves Band and the ground work being laid for her return to the music industry. In mid 2020 Greg Lafollette, a long time musical friend, moved back to KC from Nashville where he had built a successful career as an artist and producer. Greg offered his help to record a collections of songs that have become her new record. The album is titled, Finding My Footing. A nod to the difficulty of reengaging in a music business that has changed dramatically over the last 20 years but also a humble acceptance that life can be hard at times but it is important to keep moving forward. // The release of Finding My Footing marks her first full length solo album since 1996 and her first project ever as a band leader. The songs are stories of loss, fear, struggle, and joy. “This project ended up being much more than just making a good record. I spent a lot of time in self reflection—maybe I should call it a mid-life moment. I questioned my ability and worth as an artist, as a woman, and a human. It has been difficult to go through but I am learning so much about myself. I am happy with where I am and I am proud of what I’ve said with this album.” More info at: http://www.christenagravesmusic.com] [Christena Graves was guest on WMM on February 10, and on July 7, 2021.]

30. Lucy Gray Hamilton – “Sixteen and Happy”

from: “Sixteen and Happy” – Single / Lucy Gray / May 24, 2024
[Music & Lyrics by Lucy Gray Hamilton. Guitar, Vocals, Violin by Lucy Gray Hamilton. Percussion & Upright Bass by Gregory Gagnon. Produced by Gregory Gagnon- ShapeNote Studios & Robert Rebeck- Westend Recording Studios (Kansas City, MO). Original photo by Tara Duckworth Photography. This recording was made possible by the Heartland Song Network and Gregory Gagnon of ShapeNote Studios. // ‘sixteen & happy” for me is a lot of things. It’s being sad on your birthday. It’s how crushing it can be when someone you were once so close with isn’t around anymore. It reveals how hard it is to acknowledge true feelings and how it can take time to express them. My deepest gratitude to Heartland Song Network and Greg Gagnon at ShapeNote Studios for making this recording possible!” – Lucy Gray // SONGWRITER, COMPOSER, MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST – Lucy Gray grew up performing on festival stages from the young age of 7 while studying classical & fiddle style violin. By the age of 9 she was performing her own original songs leading her to 4 awards for songwriting & composition, invitations to speak at events, repeated radio spins, tv appearances & most recently a grant to record her latest single! ]

31. Krystle Warren & The Faculty– “LA DOLCE VITA”

from: “LA DOLCE VITA” – Single / Parlour Door Music / March 1, 2024
[KC born and internationally known singer songwriter Krystle Warren is one of our most played artists on the WMM radio show. Krystle is also one of our most frequent guests. In 2023 Krystle Warren released her new song, “Macca” from Krystle Warren & The Faculty, that was recorded on the heels of sessions for the band’s upcoming full length album EXTENDED PLAY. Krystle says that the song, “became equal parts: a love letter to (Paul McCartney) and a note of encouragement to me. Which is a wonderful thing if you think about it.” // Krystle Warren began performing in her native KC at the age of 16. Krystle graduated from Paseo Arts Academy in 2001 and began her musical career in collaborating with area jazz and pop musicians. // Krystle Warren moved to NYC, where she started busking on the streets and later formed her band, The Faculty. // From Diary EP to Extended Play A Truncated History of Krystle Warren & The Faculty From http://www.krystalwarren.com written by Phil Anderson: Krystle Warren met Solomon Dorsey some weekend at a high school debate competition in Kansas City. After she had trounced Solomon’s debate partner, the two ended up in an open classroom where they began playing music—Krystle had brought her guitar and was practicing chords, and Solomon, then an accomplished violinist, cellist, bassist, and singer likely had some sort of instrument on him, and even if he didn’t he had his voice. // Due to some specific details we’re not going to get into, Krystle was already living on her own; she was eighteen and he was seventeen. But she had a friend who had an apartment near hers, and this friend was having a party. “Wanna go?” she asked Solomon. And, as Solomon puts it, he has seen or spoken to Krystle every single day of his life since. // So when Solomon decided to attend the jazz program at New School in New York, he asked Krystle, “Wanna go?” And a few months after he moved, Krystle showed up. On her first night in the city, Solomon introduced her to Zach Djanikian, a saxophonist he’d become fast friends with at school. They lived in the same dorm, and Zach and Solomon took Krystle to a practice room in the basement and the three of them played musical games. According to Zach, “We’d sing as many melodies as we could over four open strings of the upright bass, plucked successively. ‘Norwegian Wood’ and the theme to ​Family Matters​ were a couple favorites.” // This led to busking as a trio, and each of them was hustling for gigs. An Italian restaurant that featured live music gave Krystle a regular night, and she often had Solomon and Zach play with her. Zach’s friend from Philadelphia, Ben Kane, would come to these nights, and he brought Mike Riddleberger. //After living in San Francisco and NYC, Krystle was signed to a French label, Because Music, who gave her a one way ticket to France. // Krystle moved to Paris to release “Circles” in 2009. Krystle played French & British TV programs, including Later with Jools Holland, garnering critical acclaim and traveling on world tours with Rufus Wainwright, Nick Cave, Norah Jones, and Joan As Police Woman. // Krystle left Because Music and created her own recording label, Parlour Door Music, to release “Love Songs: A Time You May Embrace / A Time to Refrain from Embracing” a double album recording from a 14-day session in Brooklyn, where she recorded 24 songs live with 28 musicians including her band, The Faculty, alongside choirs, horn and string sections. In 2019 The Kansas City based Owen/Cox Dance Group premiered a new dance piece titled “Love Songs” with choreography by Jennifer Owen, set to all 24 songs, in the order they appear in the recording. // Krystle Warren has collaborated with Erykah Badu, Keziah Jones, Zap Mama, Rufus Wainwright and Martha Wainwright, Brad Cox Amadou & Mariam, Lakecia Benjamin, Guarco, Teddy Thompson, Gwyneth Herbert, Hercules & Love Affair, and Joon Moon. Along with being included in the compilation “NYC Subway – Songs from the Underground,” and tribute recordings for Kate McGarrigle, and Nick Drake. // In an article in SPIN Magazine, December 6, 2020, The 35 Best Lesser-Known Artists of the Last 35 Years, Picked by 35 Well-Known Artists Krystle Was named twice! // Joan as Police Woman on Krystle Warren: “Most stellar voice, tender and strong in equal measure with a range nothing short of miraculous. Incredible writer of songs, the type of which used to get written and go on to become classics. Exquisite live performer in the way you forget completely where you are and what’s happening in your life.” // Rufus Wainwright on Krystle Warren: “Krystle Warren’s voice and performance style seared an indelible mark on me years ago when she joined Martha and I on tributes to our mom Kate McGarrigle in both London and New York. Her haunting interpretations, vocal timbre and singular look completely devastated all present, and soon after I had the honor of taking her out on the road with me. Be it covers, her own material or harmonizing with others, she is a true musician and should be considered an international treasure.” ]

32. 90 Minute Cassette – “Hold Back The Water”

from: “Hold Back The Water” – Single / Scatterplot Sounds / August 2, 2024
[Crafting jams that you can dub on a mixtape right alongside your favorite classic synth pop hits, 90 Minute Cassette is a fresh and nostalgic surprise. The duo from Kansas City, Missouri, made up of Chuck Whittington (namelessnumberheadman, Madisen Ward, Summer Breeze) on guitar/vocals and Hillary Watts (The Hillary Watts Riot) on synths/vocals, creates a vibe that fuses analog sunsets and digital sunrises. // 90 Minute Cassette weaves together dancy rhythms, shimmering synths, and infectious melodies to create a sound that transports listeners to a neon-lit retro-future. Drawing from influences like Tears for Fears, INXS, and Duran Duran, their music evokes the spirit of underground clubs and vibrant city streets of the past. From club shows to packed dance floors, their music resonates with fans of all ages, on a journey through time and sound. // 90 Minute Cassette is booking live shows to promote their two new singles, bringing their energetic and retro-futuristic music to audiences in the region. // Genre: synth pop/new wave/dream pop // RIYL: Beach House, Duran Duran, Nation of Language, Human League. // “Tunes sure to delight anyone who still cherishes their Pretty in Pink soundtrack.” -Too Much Rock // “Hold Back the Water is a perfect synth-pop jam.” -Nick Spacek, The Pitch] [90 Minute Cassette play miniBar, 3810 Broadway, KCMO on Friday, Sept. 6, at 7:00 pm with Palm Ghosts, and House of Transgressor.]

33. Religion of Heartbreak – “Dark Hour of Meditation”

from: “Dark Hour of Meditation” – Single / Religion of Heartbreak / August 9, 2024
[Dedric Moore on vocals, synths, bass, guitar, programming; Mikal Shapiro on vocals; Krysztof Nemeth on baritone guitar; Delaney Moore on synth riff; Regan Moore on electronic percussion loop. // Religion of Heartbreak, features members of Monta at Odds, and delves into the sounds of Darkwave, EBM, and darker Synth Pop. Trading in their black jeans for a darker shade of black. The songs are clever and filled with lost love as we follow our dark hearts. // “Dark Hour of Meditation creeps along with a deliberate trance-like rhythm as Dedric Moore and Mikal Shapiro’s voices drift softly above a sea of echoed guitars and spacious synths. Krystztof’s baritone guitar adds a deep undercurrent, while Dedric’s mechanized beats and brooding bass provide a steady, relentless pulse. The result is a sound both sprawling and intimate, a dark dance between the vast unknown and the familiar shadows we carry within. It’s the kind of track that lingers like a whispered confession in the dead of night, heavy with the weight of what was – and what could have been.” via Post-Punk.com] [Religion of Heartbreak play minibar, at 3810 Broadway Blvd KCMO, on October 23, 2024, with Belgium-based Ultra Sunn and Juliette Frost.]

34. Black Light Animals – “I Wanna Be Down”

from: “I Wanna Be Down” – Single / Black Light Animals / August 19, 2024
[Black Light Animals take on Brandy’s seminal classic “I Wanna Be Down”. Alex Hartmann on drums, Branden Moser on bass, Nate Hubert on Rhodes & background vocals, Cody Calhoun o guitar, and Cole Bales on lead vocals, background vocals, and Synthesizers. Produced by Cole Bales. Mixing by Cody Calhoun. Mastered by Adam Boose at Cauliflower Audio. // B.LA. Also released “nobody let to blame” on November 15, 2024, “make u mine” on October 25, 2024, “Pink Lemonade” on January 15, 2023, “Persephone” on September 23, 2022. Black Light Animals released their full length debut album, Playboys of The Western World on Groove King Records on July 3, 2020. Formed from the ashes of their last band, Instant Karma the new record contains lush pop vocals crooned over spaghetti western riffs, psychedelic synth, and hip hop drums. // Branden Moser and Cole Bales also play bass and guitar in the soul powerhouse, The Freedom Affair. // This band is also “The Boys” as in Jass and The Boys, plus Clarence Copridge on keyboards, who have been releasing their own string of singles “Daydream Girl” on August 25, 2023, “GVN2U” on July 14, 2023, and “Love U Like I Love U” on December 2, 2022.]

35. Friendly Thieves – “Get it Yourself”

from: “Get it Yourself” – Single / Friendly Thieves / June 7, 2024
[Friendly Thieves also released: “The Wolf and the Lamb” on November 12, 2024, “Let the City Burn” on October 11, 2024, “Wasted” on September 10, 2024, “Hot Summer” on August 9, 2024, “Who The F**k Cares” on July 8, 2024, The five-piece alt-funk band, Friendly Thieves are: Sam Wells on lead vocals, Jamae Breeze on lead guitar, Sam Millard on bass, John Goss on drums, and Ben Baker on saxophone. // Friendly Thieves released their debut album Til Death on October 31, 2023. // From Michelle Bacon’s piece in http://www.bridge909.org: Friendly Thieves describes themselves as if “Alabama Shakes and Young The Giant had a Vulfpeck-inspired love child,” and well, that’s pretty spot on. Their single captures that intersection of vibrant indie-rock energy and exceptional musicianship, with an intriguing funk aroma. // The bands show at ULAH is their only KC show so far this year before the ban sets off on tour to Austin, Chicago, Denver, and Nashville. // Sam Wells released her debut EP, FOR THE DEFLATED on French Exit Records on December 31, 2020. Sam Wells is a Kansas City, based singer songwriter who has shared stages with Betsy Phillips, Kelly Hunt, Andrew Ryan, The Zack Pietrini Band, and The Phantastics. She was featured as a composer and performer in the Kansas City Repertory Theater production of “Ghost Light” performed on the lawn of The Nelson Atkin Museum of Art in October, 2020. Sam has also performed in Troostival (2020), Kansas City Porchfest (2019) and Jamdemic. In 2019, Wells released her debut single “Lesson Learned.” In early 2020 Wells released her second single “Sugar” producer and engineered by Riley Corbin at the Lawrence Kansas Public Library recording studio. It was only a decade ago, Sam Wells sat in her bedroom learning the Corrine Bailey Ray classic “Put Your Records On”. This was all it took to ignite a lifetime love affair with music. With her smooth and sultry voice and the warm tones of a baritone ukulele, she shares stories of love, loss and everything in between. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, Sam Wells has lived in Lawrence, but now calls KC home. Sam Wells also contributed to The Black Lives Matter Compilation from French Exit Records that featured tracks from 22 acts from the area, and was released on July 6, 2020. Sam contributed the song, “Dear Black People”. On WMM we featured tracks from: Blackstarkids, Daniel Gum, Crystal Rose, UpKeep, Bream, Heavy Surface, Palace Intrigue, Self Harmony, and Sam Wells. All proceeds donated to One Struggle KC’s Liberation Fund, a Black-led coalition of KC activists seeking to connect the struggles of oppressed communities, locally & globally. French Exit Records launched in 2018, and is an independent music label based out of Kansas City, Missouri founded by Brad Girard. French Exit Records has released albums for No Magic and Raymond, and has organized live events. ] [Friendly Thieves played at Boulevardia Friday, June 14, at 5:05 on the Visit Missouri Stage.]

36. The Rainmakers (Bob Walkenhorst, Jeff Porter, Rich Ruth, Pat Tomek), The Nace Brothers, Kelley Hunt, Danny Cox & Family, Sunny Snoderly, Joseph Snoderly-Cox, Sunae Fisher, Kadesh Flow, Betse & Clarke – “Waiting on a Wave”

from: “Waiting on a Wave” – Single / Robert Walkenhorst / August 15, 2023
[Motivated by the importance of the upcoming election veteran KC rockers The Rainmakers’ principal Bob Walkenhorst wrote a song titled \“Waiting On A Wave” and enlisted the help of other KC artists on the studio sessions and video.  Among those he reached out to was The Rainmakers (Bob Walkenhorst, Pat Tomek, Rich Ruth, Jeff Porter), The Nace Brothers (David and Jimmy Nace), Kelley Hunt, Danny Cox and family, Sunny Snoderly, Joseph Snoderly-Cox, Sunae Fisher, Kadesh Flow and Betse & Clarke/ Last year Bob Walkenhorst released My Version Of The Story on BAT Records on November 1, 2023 For this record Bob played all instruments and sang all vocal parts and recorded this himself in his home studio. This new release follows Bob Walkenhorst’s last album A Thousand Words a 12 song album released June 1, 2021 on Bob’s 68th Birthday. Bob’s solo releases are beautiful and demonstrate the range of Bob Walkenhorst’s gifts as a master songwriter and poet. The album is also evidence of the wide open vocal range of a rock and roller who can call upon his expressive voice, giving listeners lyrics with a growl and also rising to sing the high parts of the harmony, not in a falsetto, but actually singing like a angel in a duet with Una Walkenhorst his equally talented singer songwriter daughter. With Una, Bob recorded the critically acclaimed FOR TOMORROW with that was released October 12, 2018, where they split the difference, taking turns as songwriters for the album’s songs, written individually, and recorded together, in clear beautiful harmonies, with that extra special shared musical DNA, that can be heard in the harmonies of The Carter Family, Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear, or Shy Boys. FOR TOMORROW was #2 on WMM’s 118 Best recordings of 2018. Una Walkenhorst is the youngest daughter of Bob Walkenhorst, a founding member of The Rainmakers, which had national and international hits in the 1980s and 90s, and continue to this day touring and recording new music. With The Rainmakers Bob has released over 12 albums. Bob’s solo record continues the spirit of FOR TOMORROW. // From http://www.bobwalkenhorst.com : Bob Walkenhorst has spent most of his life as a musician, as lead singer and songwriter for the critically acclaimed rock band, The Rainmakers. Hailing from Kansas City, Missouri, Bob and the band have released 9 albums over their 30+ year career, and continue to tour and record. // Bob’s songs gained attention for their lyrical content – thoughtful, humorous, witty, with insightful social commentary. This interest in the power of words eventually led to the publication of a book of Bob’s song lyrics – Scribbling On the Walls of the Mansion – published in 2019. And now Whirlybird Day – published in 2020. // Bob grew up in the small town of Norborne, Missouri, and also spent years in Maryville and Branson. These years of small town life served as the inspiration for the stories in Whirlybird Day. // Bob lives in Kansas City, Missouri, with his wife, Michele Sewell, two daughters and two granddaughters nearby. // Bob Walkenhorst is a Kansas City-based singer, songwriter, musician, and painter. After growing up in his hometown of Norborne, Missouri, he became a founding member of the popular Midwestern U.S. roots rock band The Rainmakers. In the Kansas City area, he currently gives weekly performances and participates in art gallery shows. For some shows, he is joined by his daughter Una. // As the singer/songwriter of his band, The Rainmakers, from 1986 to 1996, Walkenhorst’s discography included five full-length studio albums, one live concert recording, and one “best-of” album. After the dissolution of the band, he released his first solo album, The Beginner, in 2003. In 2009, Walkenhorst and fellow Kansas City musician Jeff Porter released an album entitled No Abandon, under the moniker Walkenhorst and Porter. The Rainmakers reformed in 2011 and have since released three more albums. // Throughout his career as a musician, Walkenhorst has maintained a reputation for producing clever and provocative lyrics, which have garnered him wide critical acclaim. In discussing the self-titled debut of The Rainmakers, Billboard called them “a band with a rarity: a genuinely witty songwriter.” A 1987 review in the Washington Post cited the cleverness while also noting irreverent humor. On a very different note, a review from later that year in the Chicago Tribune observed, “Walkenhorst’s lyrics are preoccupied with morality, although he avoids a moralizing tone.” Over three decades later, in 2018, the Richmond (Missouri) News said, “His unique vocals and viewpoints have garnered him a dedicated following, through more than 30 years in the music scene.” // Perhaps the best-known fan of The Rainmakers and Walkenhorst was Stephen King, who included lyrics from the songs “Downstream” and “Drinkin’ on the Job” in The Tommyknockers. In Gerald’s Game, King excerpted “One More Summer”—citing Walkenhorst by name—and adopted Walkenhorst’s character “The Lakeview Man” in service of the story. // More info at: http://www.bobwalkenhorst.com] [Bob Walkenhorst joined us in WMM on June 2, 2021]

37. Madisen Ward – “Hangin’ On”

from: “Hangin’ On” – Single / Madisen Ward / Video released September 23, 2024
[Not released as a single. Madisen shared this for me to play on the radio show. “Hangin’ On” is part of a video released Aug 23, 2024 and created by Madisen Ward & Bryce Veazey, The video features ill Forte, Mark Normand, Kaylin Hurley, Adam Ward, Brayden Ingram, Kri Chay, Amanda Parra, Baby, Regan Hurley, Keyo Chay, amd Madisen Ward as himself. The Video Post-Production was by Major Oak Creative. Music produced, engineered, mixed and mastered by Jeremy Wurst and Gene Abramov at B-24 Studios. Sun logo by Barry Blankenship. Filmed in Independence, MO. / Madisen Ward was born in Oklahoma, and grew up in the outskirts of Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from William Chrisman High School in 2007. Madisen’s journey to become a musician, was “melodically passed down” through the songs of his mother, where Madisen grew up watching his mom perform at local coffee shops. Eventually he began to learn to play the guitar, and poured his talent for writing into the music to create original songs. Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear have garnered international acclaim, and new fans from all over the world. They opened for BB King at The Midland. They signed with Glassnote Records in 2014 and recorded their debut full length album in Nashville with acclaimed producer Jim Abiss. They performed their debut single “Silent Movies” on The Late Show with David Letterman, they’ve toured across the United States, and Europe, more than once. They were featured on CBS Sunday Morning, NBC’s The Today Show, and “Later With Jools Holland and played Bonnaroo, Pilgramage, and the Newport Folk Festival, and the Ryman Theatre, in Nashville. Madisen Ward is now performing as his first ever solo project, still crafting his own personal brand of Americana music. The same sound which launched the careers of the Family Folk Duo Madisen Ward and the Mama Bear. / We first played your music on this radio show in early May of 2013 after our mutual friend Joel Nanos of Element Recording sent me a copy of your independent EP, “We Burned The Cane Field.”where your first recorded Madisen’s original songs. Madisen Ward plays Percheron Rooftop Series, at The Crossroads Hotel, 2101 Central Stree, KCMO, TONIGHT, Wednesday, September 4, 2024, Doors at 7:00 Show at 8:00 PM.]

38. Redder Moon – “Drown The Fire”

from: “Drown The Fire” – Single / Jarmcharm Records / October 1, 2024
[Redder Moon Unveils New Single “Drown The Fire” To Kick Off Spooky Season Featuring Bold New Direction from Founding Member Jeremiah James // Redder Moon is excited to announce the release of their latest single with accompanying music video , “Drown The Fire,” Directed by Los Angeles based Mary Chicken Soup, marking a powerful new chapter for the band. This track showcases a fresh creative direction, led by founding member Jeremiah James, who takes center stage as the band’s vocalist and primary songwriter. Known for their evocative soundscapes and dark, emotional undertones, Redder Moon elevates their artistry with *”Drown The Fire” blending raw intensity with lyrical depth. // Jeremiah James’ commanding presence and fresh perspective breathe new life into the band, adding a unique edge that fans both new and old will appreciate. With *”Drown The Fire,”* Redder Moon ventures into uncharted sonic territory, creating an anthemic and haunting track that pushes the boundaries of their signature sound. // “Drown The Fire”* is available now on all major streaming platforms // Redder Moon previously released Hell Is Other People on vinyl on March 18, 2022 (Vinyl)/ Music by Jeremiah James Gonzales and Brody Lowe. Vocals, Lyrics by Jill McKeever (additional/bg vocals: Brody Lowe, Jeremiah James Gonzales) Mixed by Ross Brown. Mastered by Eureka Mastering. The band uses layered synths & production with live bass, drums, guitars, and vocals. Redder Moon tends to skirt the line between traditional electronic act and indie avant garde. With washed out guitars, thick bass grooves, and distant reverb soaked vocals, the songs beam with the almost tactile feel of a sound track to a lost movie but with enough dance-ability to pull you out of your seat. In the last few months of 2020, the band has written and recorded an album’s with of songs, over 20 actually, without playing together, and with each member individually recording their parts at home. This was a welcome channel of creation in a time of restraint. The result is a collection that explores everything from synth pop shoegaze, to dark wave indie sounds More info at http://www.reddermoon.bandcamp.com.] [Redder Moon played recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO, October 3, with Essenger.]

39. Comet Tide – “1984EVER”

from: “1984EVER” – Single / Wonderfuzz / September 13, 2024
[New KC musical entity made up of members of Wonderfuzz[Comet Tide. Play the St. George & The Dragons play a Vinyl Release Party, September 19, 2024 at 8:00pm at Knuckleheads, 2715 Rochester St, KCMO.]

40. Run With It – “Ghost Like You”

from: “Ghost Like You” – Single / Run With It / September 30, 2024
[Miguel Antonio on lead vocals & guitar. Daniel Cole on drums, Paul Seiz on keyboards. Cody Ryan Stapleton on lead guitar, and Matt Muckenthaler on bass guitar // Ghost Like You delves into the intoxicating pull of a toxic love, where the protagonist is entranced by a ghostly presence that blurs the line between pleasure and pain. The lyrics explore the conflict between desire and self-destruction, as the protagonist grapples with the consuming nature of this almost supernatural connection. // Run With it were last on WMM seven years ago on March 22, 2017 when the band was aa three piece with Miguel Caraballo on lead vocals & guitar, Ben Byard on bass & vocals, and Daniel Cole on Drums. They joined us to promote ther nre EP How To Start A Fire release March 24,2017. // The power trio were known for their energetic live shows, leaving it all on the stage, and working their musical assets to make their audiences happy. The band was always touring. How To Start A Fire, was recorded with producer Josh Gleave. The band put together 60 songs before going into the studio last year. We sifted through them with producer Josh Gleave and found the 6 best songs that you ended up recording. // Run With It are influenced by The Black Keys, Maroon 5, Bill Withers, and more. With backgrounds in gritty rock, groovy soul, stylish R&B. // Miguel Carabello was born June 11, 1980 originally from Junction City, Kansas, Married. Ben Byard grew up in El Dorado Kansas, plays in David George and A Crooked Mile. Daniel Cole was born April 8, 1991 and graduated from Lee’s Summit West HS in 2009. // More information at: http://www.runwithitband.com]

41. Erin Eades – “The Lesser of Two Evils”

from: “The Lesser of Two Evils” – Single / Erin Eades / January 26, 2024
[Erin Eades is an Americana singer-songwriter and solo acoustic performer from Kansas City, drawing influence from indie rock, alternative, and country music. Through her music, she weaves a narrative of resilience and transformation, inviting listeners to embrace the bittersweet complexities of the human experience. Erin frequently performs in Missouri and Kansas, and plans to release her sophomore effort, a full studio project, in 2024. More info at: http://www.erineadesmusic.com]

42. Hotel Leo – “Another Low”

from: “Another Low” – Single / Hotel Leo / May 10, 2024
[Hotel Leo also released the singles: “Give It a Chance” on June 21, 2024, and “Time Apart” on August 2, 2024. Hotel Leo is the musical project of Stephen Roper who told It’s Psychedelic Baby Magazine, “ Hotel Leo has always been a studio-only project, and the idea to bring these songs to a live format is a fairly recent one. I’m lucky to have met several awesome musicians over the past year, and bringing them in to play on Hotel Leo songs feels like unlocking a whole new dimension of the band. I love the different sounds and ideas everybody brings to the table. When writing songs I don’t think about how I’m going to recreate them live – I just try and serve the song however I can. Moving those songs into a more traditional live band lineup has been a challenge. For example, how do we translate some of these synth parts to electric guitar? Or how do some of these songs recorded with a drum machine sound with real drums? I’m really enjoying the new takes on the music, and I feel like it has given new life to these songs.]

43. Lorna Kay – “What Ever Happened”

from: “What Ever Happened” – Single / Independent / October 18, 2024
[Lauren Krum solo project with Mike Stover. Follow up single to “Havin’ A Ball” released July 12, 2024. Lauren Krum is known for her work as lead singer of The Grisly Hand who had their last show on May 11, 2024 at The Ship. The band first started playing live in 2009. When The Grisly Hand released their debut album Safe House, the entire band (at that time: Lauren Krum, Jimmy Fitzner, Johnny Nichols, Chas Snyder, Mike Tuley. Ben Summers & Kian Byrne) climbed into our studios and performed live on our Nov. 10, 2010 show. // Jimmy Fitzner, Johnny Nichols, Chas Snyder were in a band called Left Behind. Lauren had played with them at The Brick, before laving Kansas City to go to Columbia College in Chicago. N Chicago Lauren created the group The Strumpettes a soul-inspired group featuring four female singers and a four-piece band. When the Strumpettes dismantled in 2008 and her life in Chicago started to fall apart, Krum decided to move back to Kansas City. She immediately began singing with From Before. // Within a few months, Krum, Fitzner, Nichols and Snyder were performing as a new group. They had brought on Andy Davis to play mandolin. Krum had found the name “the Grisly Hand” iafter coming across it in the poem “Webster Ford” from Edgar Lee Masters’ Spoon River Anthology. The most Current grouping of The Grisly Hand was Jimmy Fitzner, Lauren Krum, Ben Summers, Mike Stover, Johnny Nichols and Kian Byrne. / A super group of sorts several members have also been involved in other projects. Lauren has played and recorded wirthg Ruddy Swain (with David Regnier), and Lorna Kay, and Lorna Kay’s Country Club, as well as being a DJ.]

44. My Oh My – “I Just Don’t Understand”

from: “I Just Don’t Understand” – Single / My Oh My / June 28, 2024
[My Oh My is a three-woman, five-man band from Kansas City, Missouri, that plays a big, bear-hugging blend of Americana, classic rock and folk. The band’s second release, the 2015 EP Wouldn’t Have It Any Other Way, delivers six weighty tracks of full-throated choruses, jagged guitar, rowdy keys and tent-revival-sized anthems about life as it’s lived. // A.M. Merker on guitar & lead vocals; Stephen Berry on guitar; Grant Buell on keyboards; Sarah Wittman on vocals, Melissa Geffert on vocals; Justin Rogers on bass; Jacob Horpinjuk on drums. // Equally at home in a saloon or an outdoor festival, Kansas City’s My Oh My draws from the broad history of American song to deliver a big, bearhugging musical experience. // Crafted around the powerful songwriting and soulful vocals of A.M. Merker, My Oh My covers the entire range of emotion: from joyful, two-steppin’ dance tunes to heart-wrenching ballads and rollicking rock burners. Singers Sarah Wittman and Melissa Geffert add depth and shine to Merker’s grit. Grant Buell keeps it all cohesive with his deft keyboard skills, even while Stephen Berry’s rowdy guitar work threatens to tear everything in the place down. Jacob Horpinjuk (drums) and Justin Rogers (bass) keep everything nailed down from the backline. // With well over a decade of shows and releases, My Oh My has proven its unique approach to Americana not only has staying power but also continues to surprise, elate, and enrapture audiences.]

45. Adriana Nikole – “Unglued”

from: “Unglued” – Single / Adriana Nikole / September 13, 2024
[“Unglued is one of several new singles Adriana Nicole has released this year. Hailing from the Detroit area, Adriana Nikole carries an old sound. Channeling Motown and an early jazz vibe, she sings with soul and passion, with a touch of grit at times. Her time in Kansas City has helped her grow as an artist. Her writing is honest, raw, and will either break your heart or make you get up and dance..Adriana Nikole started performing at open mics in Michigan in her early 2000’s, and then started writing songs, and getting gigs. Adriana moved to Knoxville then to Nashville TN performing on the street for a few months then finally settled in Kansas City, MO after her parents moved here for their work. Nikole’s music is rooted in Motown, 50’s doo wop, old school country, and love of experimenting and singing with electronic music as well.]

46. The Distant Now – “Borrowed Dime”

from: The Dime Variations / The Distant Now / March 27, 2024
[Kansas City, Kansas based musical duo, The Distant Now who released “The Dime Variations,” on April 2, 2024. Anson the Ornery and Brandan Hoffman created two new songs that are two sides of the same coin. “Some Thin Dime” antes up a classic soul tune, recorded to sound live in a smokey nightclub. “Borrowed Dime” then doubles down by flipping “Some Thin Dime” to create new meaning and context. “The Dime Variations” is streaming on all platforms. Last year The Distant Now released the EP Want Not is Deth on July 29, 2023. The Distant Now is now a duo, but last year it was a trio with Jacob E.chord, Anson The Ornery, & Brandan Hoffman. More info at: http://www.thedistantnow.bandcamp.com]

47. Charlotte Bumgarner – “Never Say”

from: “Never Say” – Single / Manor Records / June 14, 2024
[Written by Charlotte Bumgarner. Produced by Kendal Osborne and Charlotte Bumgarner. Acoustic guitar by Charlotte Bumgarner, drums by Ramsey Thornton, violin by Olivia McGraw, piano by Max Helmrich, cello and bass by Matt Magerkurth, electric guitar by Kendall Osborne. Cover art by Emma Davenport. // Charlotte Bumgarner released the single, “Red With Love” on March 28, 2021. Charlotte Bumgarner released the single “Haunted House” on January 22, 2021 / Charlotte Bumgarner released the single, “Honey Touch” on December 11, 2020. All were written & performed by Charlotte Bumgarner, with harmony, synth, production, mixing & mastering by Drew Richardson.. // Charlotte is a singer/songwriter born and raised in Tulsa. She has been playing the local Tulsa scene for about 2-3 years as a solo artist and for about a year with her band Graveyard Party. Charlotte’s sound can be described as a mix of many influences, but is mostly a emo singer/songwriter & folky fusion. Charlotte is also a big activist for female equality & rights and tries to integrate that into my songwriting and my footprint in the scene in general.// In 2018 Charlotte began self-recording and releasing her own music with the single “where are you” and night blooming flowers EP. From then on Charlotte continued playing throughout the local Tulsa scene as well as branching out and touring regionally as much as possible. KOSU Radio called Charlotte a “passionate about young women being taken seriously and making the music scene a safer place for everyone.” More info at http://www.manorrecords.com]

48. The Sexy Accident – “Becoming”

from: “Becoming” – Single / The Sexy Accident / October 9, 2024
[The Sexy Accident includes: Jesse Kates on vocals & guitars, Ramone Hall on drums, Ryan Leip on keyboards, Mack McKinney on bass, Rachel Jaggard on vocals. The Sexy Accident has released 17 albums/EPs and multiple singles. More information at http://www.thesexyaccident.com%5D

49. Duncan Burnett – “Goodbye”

from: “Goodbye” – Single / R.I.O.T LLC / August 16, 2024
[Olathe, KS based hip hop artist, singer, songwriter, producer, musician, drummer. // Duncan Burnett s the drummer and member of Making Movies. He also has produced music for Lava Dreams. // From Tim Finn’s Back To Rockville (KC Star) Blog Sept. 9, 2015 – When he settled on hip-hop as his music genre, Duncan Burnett had two missions in mind: Keep the messages positive. “I’m big on spirituality and being a positive influence,” he said. “When I started, my goal was to have my nieces and nephews be able to listen to their uncle’s music and love it and be able to repeat every line and lyric but also to have people my age relate to it.” His second mission was to provide live music during his performances. Burnett has been performing live since he was 7. Live music, he said, is in his blood. Duncan released the EP One of These Days on Apppril 10, 2020, it was a follow up to his 2018 EP, The Almighty.]

50. Buck Moon – “Indigo Night”

from: Indigo Night / Buck Moon / January 25, 2024 (Full Moon)
[Produced by Ivory Blue. Buck Wimberly performs as “Buck Moon” an LGBTQ artist and singer-songwriter who started his life in rural Texas growing up Southern Baptist. Being raised in smaller communities brought challenges for a young, creative, closeted gay kid, pushing Buck to hide parts of himself to minimize bullying, be accepted by his church community, and feel loved by family and friends. // Buck eventually came out at 33 after overcoming depression and has since been on a journey of self-discovery. Now in his forties, having raised two boys, and happily living with his life partner, he has been working on healing past traumas through shamanic experiences, expanded consciousness, and discovering the power of the medicine found within. // Believing that healing the world begins by healing oneself, Buck’s music aims to challenge the listener to learn self-love, connect with the Earth and the world around them, and discover the medicine within themselves. Buck weaves together genres of folk, roots, Americana, country, indie, and electronic to share personal stories and empathy-driven messages that are mindful, conscious, motivational, and self-empowering. // In Buck’s coming music, you’ll find the universally human themes of self-discovery, personal identity, love, struggle, mental health, growth, questioning one’s purpose, redemption, and self-actualization. Buck’s first single “Indigo Night” is a sonic painting of his transformative and spiritual rites of passage experience in the mountains of North Carolina. // More information at: http://www.buckmoonmusic.com]

51. Bobcat Attack – “Pallas”

from: “Pallas” – Single / The Record Machine – Les Bon Bons Electriques / September 18, 2024
[Bobcat Attack is the alter ego of electronic musician Nathan Reusch. Reusch has a passion for blending dub, techno, and ambient electronica into his own improvised vision. His compositions, crafted with synthesizers, drum machines, and modular synths, create a pulsing soundscape that is both intimate and lush, setting him apart in the electronic music scene. // Reusch first started making electronic music influenced by emo/punk in the early 2000s, opening for acts like Taking Back Sunday, Mewihoutyou, Coheed and Cambria, to more fitting artists like Joy Electric, Atom & His Package, Casiotone for the Painfully Alone and Yacht. In 2003, he started his indie label, The Record Machine, and in 2011, he founded KC’s Middle of the Map Fest; his time and focus on making his music came to a halt. The pandemic inspired Reusch to dust off his Bobcat Attack moniker and renewed his interest in making music. After a few months of waywardly trying to figure out patches and midi cables, he joined KC’s Synth Collective and found a group of similarly-minded electronic musicians. // After a year of playing and organizing shows with the KC Synth Collective, he is regaining his footing; Reusch is ready to release his first new material in nearly two decades. Bobcat Attack bridges the gap between ambient, dub-techno, and house music. The result is a rich textural environment of blooming melodies, entrancing techno beats, and ambient soundscapes that immerses the listener in a vibrant, flooding forest of electronica. His arrangements are patient and complete, and there’s always a discovery bubbling underneath the surface. // The debut track, Pallas, will be the inaugural release on Les Bon Bons Electriques imprint. This collaboration between fellow electronic musician and collaborator Mark Ronning (Mr. Golden Sun/Pool Culure) and Reusch’s label, The Record Machine.]

52. Kate Cosentino – “Swim”

from: “Swim” – Single / Kate Cosentino / February 3, 2024
[One oif six new singles Kate Cosentino has released so far this year. Kare Costentino Well-versed in the art of puns and guitar-shredding, Kate Cosentino’s music is something of jazzy sleekness atop the lyrical precision of witty slam poetry. Whether you saw her rock the stage as a part of Niall Horan’s team for Season 23 of The Voice or saw one of her many goofy social media posts, Cosentino’s fun-loving personality, unique sense of style, and witty songwriting shine through in everything she does everything she does.][Kate Cosentino played Boulevardia, Saturday, June 15, 3:45 PM on the Visit Missouri Stage.]

53. The Canterberries – “Small Steps”

from: “Small Steps” – Single / The Canterberries / March 1, 2024
[According to their Instagram page, singers Abby Parra, Emma Vogt, and Hannah Dahlor are just “3 pals singing in our living room.” KCUR Radio writes: “Together they create a choral effect, like competing voices in your head teaming up to encourage you to have a little grace with yourself.” Small Steps describes the mental struggle against a racing mind and too many things on the to-do list.] [The Canterberries played the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, Saturday, August 24, at 4:00pm, on the Stockyards Brewing Stage, 1600 Genessee St. with: Howard Mahan & Friends, Danielle Ate The Sandwich, The Swallowtails, Beth Watts Nelson, Rural Grit All Stars, and Les Ismore & The Goats.]

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Wednesday MidDay Medley – Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning
TEN to NOON Wednesdays on 90.1 FM KKFI Kansas City Community Radio,
Streams Live + (2-week) Archives at KKFI.org

This is our celebration of the year in music based on the playlists of this little ole radio show. In 2024 we’ve played hundreds of New & MidCoastal Releases. We conducted over 120 interviews with 152 special guests.

On Wednesday, November 27, Bill Brownlee, creator of the blogs: There Stands The Glass, & Plastic Sax, Judy Mills, owner of Mills Record Company, Chris Haghirian, host of 8160 on 90.9 The Bridge, and Fally Afani – Founder & Editor of I Heart Local Music will share their Favorite Musical Releases of 2024.

In 2 weeks we begin WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2024. Tune into WMM thru Dec. for our 4-week series on Dec. 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th. This is our celebration of the year in music based on the playlists of this little ole radio show. In 2024 we’ve played hundreds of New & MidCoastal Releases. We conducted over 120 interviews with 152 special guests.

You can find our playlists at: http://www.wednesdaymiddaymedley.org
Sign up to receive our weekly announcements.
Use our search engine to learn more about musical artists we play.

Wednesday MidDay Medley in on the web:
http://www.kkfi.org,
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http://www.facebook.com/WednesdayMidDayMedleyon90.1FM
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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 20, 2024

Michelle Bacon’s Favorite Releases of 2024 +
Wednesday MidDay Medley’s Favorite 15 Singles of 2024

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]

Wednesday MidDay Medley’s Favorite 15 Singles of 2024

In our first hour we count down Wednesday MidDay Medley’s Favorite 15 Singles of 2024. 2024 was a year loaded with hundreds of single releases with many area artists releasing multiple singles. These 15 tracks are part of WMM’s Top 50 Favorite Singles of 2024. Check out http://www.WednesdayMidDayMedley.org or our WMM Facebook page and for the complete list of WMM’s 50 Favorite Singles of 2024.

2. (#15.) Mikal Shapiro & The Musical – “Sunshine Lover”
   from: “Sunshine Lover” – Single / Mikal Shapiro / November 15, 2024
   [Mikal wrote to me to tell me that “The song is inspired by the counterculture, anti-establishment musicals of the 60/70s like Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar.” Recorded with The Musical. Music and lyrics by Mikal Shapiro. The Musical is: Mikal Shapiro on vocal & guitar, Chad Brothers on vocals & guitar, Johnny Hamil on bass, and Matt Richey on drums. Featuring harmonies by: Erika Cecilia Noguera, Beth Watts Nelson. Harmony arrangements by: Beth Watts Nelson. Recorded at Weights and Measure Sound Lab. Engineered by Duane Trower. Made possible with the generous support of Jean and Steve Spikes. Currently available on Bandcamp. // Mikal Shapiro & The Musical released THE MUSICAL II on May 26, 2018. It was The sequel to Shapiro’s 2015 concept album “THE MUSICAL” Mikal Shapiro, on vocals & guitar, Chad Brothers on vocals & guitar, Johnny Hamil on bass, and Matt Richey on drums. Special guests include: Hermon Mehari on trumpet, Tina Bilberry on viola & violin, Damon Parker on keyboards, and Lauren Hughes on vocals. Engineered and co-produced by Joel Nanos at Element Recording & Mastering Studios. Mikal Shapiro is a KC songwriter whose musical influences span popular songs, psych rock, lounge, classic country and old time spirituals. She has toured extensively across the U.S. and has recorded five critically acclaimed albums. KC Star and Tim Finn declared her album “The Musical” to be one of his top five releases of 2015. A third generation storyteller, she draws inspiration from her travels, love life, and the state of the Union. More info at: http://www.themusicaltheband.com]

3. (#14) Kemet Coleman – “Android (feat. FlareThaRebel & Kadesh Flow)”
   from: “Android (feat. FlareThaRebel & Kadesh Flow)” – Single / Kemet Creative / April 26, 2024
   [Kemet Coleman is a Kansas City based musicians and is a member of the Hip-Hop duo COA (Center of Attention) and is the lead singer of the Funk/Rap/Soul band The Phantastics. Kemet is also a core element of The Marcus Lewis Big Band for Brass & Boujee. Kemet is a two time Pitch Music Award nominee for “Best Hip-Hop Act.” Kemet is known for his unprecedented collaborations with UMKC, KC Streetcar and The Kansas City Royals. He is also highly regarded for his impresario role within the Sly James for Mayor Campaign in the 2010-2011 where he created the first ever KC mayoral candidate rap song. A UMKC alumnus, Kemet, created “Gold and Blue” for UMKC’s sports teams, which has garnered thousands of plays on YouTube and has been featured on prime-time television commercials for the university. In 2020 Coleman contributed his song, “The Virus” to the compilation, Kansas City Syzygy, music created by over 25 KC-based musicians in the middle of the map of a pandemic. All proceeds donated to KC Tenants, a local nonprofit organized to ensure that everyone has a safe, accessible, affordable home. Kemet Coleman released, BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL on Aug. 1, 2020. Kenet Coleman released the single “Eyes On The Sr\treet” on May 21, 2021.] [The Phantastics released their single “All That Fine”on May 6, 2022. The Pjhantastics are an 8 member band from KC formed in December of 2010. Kemet the Phantom on lead vocals; Leigh Gibbs on lead vocals; JJ Cantrell on lead guitar & vocals; Danny Florez on electric bass; Ashley Thompson on drums, DJ Mitchell on saxophone; Ryan Jamaal Davis on Trombone and rap vocals; Austin Quick on keyboards. The Phantastics specialize in genre-blending dance floor activators. In 2015, the music group was crowned “Kansas City’s best party band” by the KC Star. Musicianship and diversity are at the core of their success. Rock, Rap, Dance, Funk, Jazz & Soul are all incorporated into their music. “The band that can do it all”, according to I Heart Local Music, has shared the stage with some of music’s most legendary acts including George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic. On Oct. 18, 2019 The Phantastics released LIVE AT THE PLAZA ART FAIR. On Aug. 24, 2018 The Phantastics released the EP, LIFE OF THE PARTY. On Dec. 14, 2013 The Phantastics released their debut album THE CLOSER. Info at: http://www.thephantastics.com]

4. (#13.) VCMN & Joel Leoj – “Fab (Vmix)”
   from: Fab (Vmix) – Single / VCMN Music / September 2, 2024
   [VCMN released the single “Fab” on July 26, 2024. VCMN release the single, “Boounce (Remix) [feat. Amira Wang & The Epitome] on August 11, 2023. VCMN released their debut album entitled “The VCMN Project” on Friday, May 13, 2022. VCMN is an American singer-songwriter duo who’s artistry is shaped by way of edgy, alternative R&B, Pop, and Rock. Victoria and Emmanuel “Manny” Cable—aka the “Vic” and “Man” of VCMN. Victoria grew up in the Bethel International Center of Worship church in Kansas City, Kansas, where her father, Cleveland Drone, was a pastor. From the ages of 10-19, she toured across the country singing gospel music. Manny came to performance via a different path: ballet and modern dance. They’ve been working it out with the rhythms and the rhymes for years now. VCMN Project was first birthed into existence when they were still dating; the album was finished after they were married. It all began on their living room sofa. The VCMN Project is just as much a party as it is a beautifully written love story. The 10-track “The VCMN Project” encompasses a song from every top 40 music genre. R&B, Rap, Pop, Alternative Rock, Ballad, Country, Hip Hop, and Dance Pop. VCMN played Lawrence Gay Pride, presented by I Heart Local Music. Fri. June 24, 2022 at Lucia, 1016 Mass with Cuee & Friends. http://www.vcmnofficial.com]

5. (#12) Monta At Odds – “Forget About You (Religion of Heartbreak remix)”
   from: “Forget About You (R.O.H. remix)” – Single / The Record Machine / Sept. 4, 2024
   Monta At Odds released their single “Forget About You” on April 12, 2024 with Mikal Shapiro on vocals, Krysztof Nemeth wielding the baritone guitar, and founding member Dedric Moore polymathing on all other sonics. // On August 9, 2024 Dedric Moore on vocals, synths, bass, guitar, programming; Mikal Shapiro on vocals; Krysztof Nemeth on baritone guitar; Delaney Moore on synth riff; Regan Moore on electronic percussion loop, released the single “Dark Hour of Meditation” as Religion of Heartbreak. // Religion of Heartbreak, an offshoot of Monta At Odds, dives deep into darkwave and EBM territories, crafting a sound that’s nostalgic and cutting-edge. For fans of Depeche Mode, Boy Harsher, and The Soft Moon, this remix offers a fresh take on the dark side of dance music.// Monta At Odds’ “Forget About You” gets a dark nightclub makeover in this haunting remix by Religion of Heartbreak. The post-punkers strip down the original’s sound and rebuilds it as a brooding synthpop masterpiece, perfect for late-night dance floors and introspective listening. The remix retains the original’s raw emotion while adding layers of pulsating beats and atmospheric synths. Mikal’s yearning vocals float above Krysztof’s ringing baritone guitar and Dedric’s mechanized rhythms, creating an ominous earworm that’s impossible to shake. Exploring themes of dangerous attraction and the transformative power of heartbreak, this one’s tailor-made for those nights when forgetting is the only option // Monta released their EP Crystal Momentum on March 24, 2023. The band released the single “Looking Back” on February 27, 2023, and “Everybody’s Baby” on January 27, 2023. Monta’s latest, the Crystal Momentum EP, hones the Kansas City band’s mastery of electrified dreamworld post-punk, presenting four spacious songs to accompany out-of-body explorations. Monta’s core players — Mikal Shapiro on vocals, Krysztof Nemeth and Lucas Behrens on guitars, Dedric Moore on electronics, Matthew Heinrich on drums, and Teri Quinn with additional vocals — accompany their visions with a groovy flow that rings with subtle tensions, introspective instrumentation, and chorus-fed uplifts. // Found within are “Everybody’s Baby,” an otherworldly adoration of unnamed strangers set to transfixing melodies and a snake-like groove; the buoyant “Looking Back,” which shines a danceable, sonic brightness through a haze of ecstatic reminiscence; the inspired “Perimeter Dancer,” an ode to those who fight for the cause, accompanied by a punky disco beat and a chorus that launches the song upward to a mirror-ball-lit sky. And then there’s “Luna Lost In Your Gaze,” a righteous desert sleepwalk of a tune that recalls the spaghetti western tones of Monta’s past while remaining on the current trajectory. // With the Crystal Momentum EP, Monta grabs the moment, further defining the distinctive mix of synth-pop and dark psychedelia that’s become the band’s trademark. Take a leap and fall into their world. // Monta means “to climb higher.” Through lineup changes and scenes ebbing and flowing, this band continues that climb. Founded by brothers Dedric and Delaney Moore, Monta (originally Monta At Odds) has grown into its own community with a rotating cast of musicians and characters. More Information at: kosmiccity.com / therecordmachine.co] [Monta played 20 Years of The Record Machine featuring The Noice FM, Black Light Animals Soultru and Pala Zolo, on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd] [Dedric Moore joined us on WMM on October 4, 2023] [Religion of Heartbreak played minibar, at 3810 Broadway Blvd KCMO, on October 23, 2024, with Belgium-based Ultra Sunn and Juliette Frost.]

6. (#11) Dragon Inn 3 – “Clock Machine”
   from: “Clock Machine” – Single / American Laundromat Records / August 23, 2024
   [Clock Machine: Performed by Dragon Inn 3: Drums by Nick Wilkerson. Mixed by Scoops Dardaris. Produced by Philip Dickey. Side B: “All I Know.” Performed by Dragon Inn 3. Produced and mixed by Philip Dickey. Mastered by Sean Glonek at SRG studios. Design and Layout by Emily Only Design Co. // Last year Dragon Inn 3 released Trade Secrets on American Laundromat Records on April 18, 2023, their long-anticipated sophomore release from Dragon Inn 3. Features 10 brand new songs plus a fantastic cover of Yazoo’s “Only You.” // Dragon Inn 3 is: Grace Bentley on vocals; Philip Dickey on synths, drums, guitar, bass & vocals; Sharon Hamm on synths & vocals; David Hill on vocals & synths. Recorded from 2018 to 2022 at Davey’s house and Sharon’s house. Recorded, mixed, and produced by Philip Dickey. Additional recording and mixing help from Ross Brown, David Hill, and Chase Horseman. Mastered by Sean Glonek at SRG studios. Additional musicians: Bill Belzer percussion “I Can’t Stop”, John Cardwell guitar “Finally Going Down”, Ben Collins guitar “I Can’t Stop”, Tim Gillespie saxophone “I Can’t Stop” “Out Of Control” “Trade Secrets Theme”, Anita Kitungano vocals “See It Your Way”, John O’Hallaron guitar “Teleport”, Bora Wilondja vocals “See It Your Way” “Trade Secrets Theme”, Mauwa Wilondja vocals “Trade Secrets Theme”, Pelo Wilondja percussion “I Could Never”. Additional writers: Emma Bentley Ruzicka “Not Enough”, Bora Wilondja “See It Your Way”, JR Top “See It Your Way”, and Vincent Clark “Only You”. Cover photo: Dominik Podlipniak. Design: Dustin Williams. // Kansas City based band formed in 2012 with Grace Bentley, Sharon Bowie, Philip K. Dickey, E.P. Marcus. Dragon Inn 3’s debut LP DOUBLE LINE on August 17, 2018 through American Laundromat records. DOUBLE LINE was part of WMM’s 118 Best Recordings of 2018. The band spent six years whittling away on the songs. Combining sugary pop hooks, hypnotic beats, and huge MOOG synths, Dragon Inn 3’s playful take on 80s pop could double as the soundtrack to a John Hughes movie (if John Hughes directed Blade Runner). The cinematic origins of Dragon Inn 3 can be traced back to 2012, when Philip Dickey (leader of the indie-pop group, Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin) wrote a theme song for the award-winning short film Ghoul School. “If you watch the trailer you can tell it’s the same premise and look as Stranger Things–we just accidentally made it three years before them,” Dickey says. “I had so much fun making the soundtrack with the director (E.P. Marcus) that we decided to start a band.” Dickey recruited his sister, Sharon Bowie, an occupational therapist, and his wife, children’s librarian Grace Bentley, to help with songwriting and vocal duties. The group self-released the Ghoul School Soundtrack EP in late 2012, receiving high praise from Consequence of Sound, Philadelphia’s WXPN, and The Riverfront Times, before climbing to #1 on Bandcamp’s cassette charts. Then it was back to the studio (i.e. the bedrooms, kitchens, garages, and hotel rooms that doubled as makeshift recording studios). In between full-time jobs, parenthood, graduate school classes, and cross country moves, the members of Dragon Inn 3 put Double Line to tape. “I’m a stay-at-home dad now, so I would work on song arrangements and rough mixes when our toddler was taking his naps,” explains Dickey. “Grace would come home from work and record all her parts after his bedtime. We recorded all the breathy vocals in the living room and all the yelly parts in the garage so we wouldn’t wake him up.” The result is a highly addictive album that creates “a soundtrack for the more introspective moments on and off the dance floor,” according to critic David Greenwald. With members spread out over the country (KC, LA, and Springfield, MO), the group signed to American Laundromat Records in early 2018. A demo of “Bad Boy” (co-written with Free Energy’s Paul Sprangers) landed in a commercial for Ryan Adams’ Beats 1 Radio show before the song was even completed. More Info at: http://www.dragoninn3.com] [Philip Dicky joined us LIVE on WMM on May 3, 2023.]

7. (#10) Arson Class – “Junior”
   from: “Junior” Single Side A / Too Much Rock / May 3, 2024
   [After a four-year break Too Much Rock is back with the eleventh installment of their acclaimed vinyl singles series. For this edition Too Much Rock features the Kansas City blue collar punk trio, Arson Class. This is the first vinyl release for the band. // Sid Sowder is the founder of the Too Much Rock, a music blog site he created in 1997 to share his photos, videos & comments of live music shows he attends. The Too Much Rock Singles Series is a collection of 45 rpm singles that marry great songs with great bands all for the love of vinyl. Each old-school two-song single features one unique song paired with one cover chosen by Too Much Rock who press 500 limited edition copies and then simply give them to the band. Schwervon!, Rev Gusto, Josh Berwanger Band, The Uncouth, Hipshot Killer, Witch Jail, Red Kate, Heidi Lynne Gluck, Brandon Phillips and The Condition, and in 2020 No Germ Candy have all recorded for the Too Much Rock Single Series. More info at: http://www.toomuchrock.com // Arson Class was formed in 2016 with brothers Chris Kinsley and Phil Kinsley and Marc Bollinger on bass.The 3-piece rock band released their self titled EP, Arson Class on May 6, 2017. They released the 5-track EP American Machine on May 6, 2018, recorded at Weights & Measures studio in Kansas City. Arson Class released the single “Rock & Roll” on November 21, 2020. The Band released their single “My Girl” on March 5, 2024. // For the Too Much Rock Single Series The A-Side features the band’s own song, “Junior.” The B-Side features a revved-up cover of John Cougar’s 1976 deep cut “American Dream” chosen by Too Much Rock. The limited-edition 7″ single will be out May 3, 2024 at area record stores, and directly from the band in both black and ultra-limited colored vinyl. // The A-Side features the band’s “Junior.” It’s a highly combustible rock & roll number featuring a breakneck rhythm, a driving guitar, and an anthemic gang chorus. The B-Side features a revved-up cover of John Cougar’s 1976 deep cut “American Dream” chosen by Too Much Rock. The song looks back on a gloriously misspent youth, pushes aside the stability of a 9-to-5 future, and aims for that big break. // The limited-edition 7″ single was released 5/3/24 at area record stores, online retailers, in both black and ultra-limited colored vinyl.]

8. (#9) Stephonne – “1”
   from: “1” – Single / Stephonne / August 21, 2024
   [Written and Produced by Stephonne Singleton. Additional Production – Justin Mantooth. Engineering, Mixing, and Mastering – Justin Mantooth. Additional Vocal Engineering – Stephonne Singleton. Vocals – Stephonne; Synths, Drum Machine, Keyboard – Stephonne; Guitar – Zachary Arias; Bass – Carly Atwood; Drums – Adam Soliz (McKee); Trombone – Trevor Turla. Recorded, mixed and mastered at Westend Recording Studios, Kansas City. // Stephonne describes himself as the lovechild of Prince & Billie Holiday. He grew up in KCK and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Benedictine College, and Masters in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University. Singer, songwriter, actor, model, artist – Stephonne Singleton keeps very busy, organizing Tribute Shows, working as a Resident Artist at Charlottee Street studios, playing Music Festivals, Lemonade Park, Lawrence Pride, Manor Records, Midwest Music Foundation, The AIDS Service Foundation of KC, InterUrban ArtHouse, The Black Box, The Folly Theatre, collaborating with The Black Creatures, Calvin Arsenia, Miki P, Jass, Eboni Fondren, putting out EPs, and singles. Stephonne released his EP SIS: Side B on June 24, 2022 it was in the TOP TEN of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. Stephonne was a featured performer at the 23rd Annual West 18th Street Fashion Show on Friday, June 2, 2023, and also in the 24th annual West 18th Street Fashion Show.]

10:29 – Underwriting

9. (#8) Pure xtc – “Fall Apart”
   from: “Fall Apart” – Single / Taylor Hughes / March 1, 2024
   [Pure XTC released the iongles: “Hurt Me Bad” on Ovember 15, 2024, “Mood Ring” on July 19, 2024. Fall Apart (Soft Faith Remix) on May 17, 2024. Pure XTC released the Shed My Skin EP on November 18, 2022. Pure XTC released the single “Get Lost“ on September 9, 2022, and “Shadow” released June 1, 2022. Pure xtc released the EP Nobody’s Home on November 12, 2021. Pure xtc is the musical project of Kansas City based Taylor Hughes. Taylor is also the drummer for the band EXNATIONS. The idea of pure xtc was formed during an extremely isolating time for multi-instrumentalist, Hughes. Living truly on her own for the first time, she moved to the NYC metro in 2019. Time was spent crying on subways, climbing new rooftops, meeting new people, avoiding new people, feeling extremely fulfilled to feeling like a hollow empty shell.]

10. (#7) Epitome – “Way Up (Radio Edit) feat. Ayron Alexander)”
    from: “Way Up” – Single / Syke Brand Music / July 12, 2024
    [KC based rapper Glenn Robinson who is known as Epitome. Epitome released his newest 10 track album, BOUJIE TYPE BEAT on February 19, 2024. Since then has released the new single, “Way Up (feat. Ayron Alexander)” on July 12, 2024. A protest of sorts, “WAY UP” is also a celebration of life and all its struggles. The raucous anthem delves into E’s mantra of “once you reach the bottom, the only way is UP!” Featuring the silky, smooth sounds of Ayron Alexander, the layered vocals transform this gritty griot into an alternative pop confection. Since 2016, Epitome has released 3 albums, 4 EPs. 20 singles, collaborating with artists including: The Royal Chief, Domineko, Regina Del Carmen, Amira Wang, VCMN, Scotty Wu, Lex Lingo and others.]

11. (#6) Akkilles – “Who Am I Am”
    from: “Who I Am” – Single / David Bennett / July 5, 2024
    [Akkilles is the music project of David Bennett who makes music under the moniker Akkilles. He also helps other people make music. Akkilles released “Strange Dream” on July 10, 2024 and “Online” on April 19, 2024 written and produced by David Bennett. Performers include Nick Pickrell on bass, Ian Thompson on synth & keybopards, Baird Williams on lead guitar, Jared Bond on drums, Bryan Koehler on percussion and David Bennett on vocals & rhythm guitar. Recorded at: Aorist Studios in KC. // Akkilles released the single “Way I Feel” on May 5, 2023. Akkilles released the single “Happily” on April 21, 2023. Akkilles released three singles in 2019. “By Myself” – Single was released November 1, 2019. “Meet in the Middle” was released October 25, 2019. “Feelin’ My Self” was released February 1, 2019. Akkilles released the critically acclaimed debut record “Something You’d Say” on July 2, 2013.]

13. (#4) Daniel Gum – “Don’t I Know”
    from: Sophia – Don’t I Know – Single / Manor Records / January 24, 2024
    [Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS who has been active since 2017. Daniel Gum released the single “Julia” on December 9, 2022. Daniel Gum released the single “Wolverine (ft. Rachel Cion)” on September 19, 2921. Daniel Gu, released the electronic pop EP, I’M NOT DEAD in 2017 and an acoustic EP, MOON in 2018. In addition to working on his own solo project, Daniel has been working with other local groups—playing bass and engineering for his band Pillow (a post-punk/shoegaze group) and playing drums behind singer-songwriter Chloe Jacobson, also doing some recording for her. Channeling the likes of Elliott Smith & Andy Shauf, he co-produced his new record THIRTEEN with Mike Crawford, playing almost everything you hear on the album and mixing it himself. Signing to Manor Records in the spring of 2020, he officially released THIRTEEN on cassette & CD on October 30, 2020. All songs written, performed, and.mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering. Daniel Gum is a 24 year old singer-songwriter . Since the age of 12, he has spent the majority of his time writing and recording songs by himself in his room. The Moon EP was released December 7, 2019. It was engineered by Mike Crawford and Daniel Gum and mixed by Daniel Gum with piano and accordion by Cole Crawford. Daniel Gun released his EPI’M NOT DEAD on October 25, 2017, and his 10-song album Reorient on July 31, 2015, with all songs written, recorded and mixed by Daniel Gum who also performed all vocals guitars, drums, piano, bass. harmonica, and programming. The first single from Daniel Gum’s album, Thirteen “Ruin Your Life” was released on September 4, The second single, “In The Worst Ways” was released September 28, 2020. ] [On our July 22, 2020, WMM show we played Daniel Gum’s track, “Tired Saint” from French Exit Records – Black Lives Matter Compilation, released July 6, 2020. French Exit Records was launched two years ago as an independent music label in KCMO, founded by Brad Girard. French Exit Records has released albums for No Magic and Raymond,. BLM Compilation is 22 acts from the area, with all proceeds donated to One Struggle KC’s Liberation Fund, a Black-led coalition of KC activists seeking to connect the struggles of oppressed communities, locally & globally. Daniel Gum joined us on WMM on November 11, 2020.]

14. (#3) Ivory Blue – “Breathing Underwater”
    from: “Breathing Underwater” – Single / IVORY BLUE / August 9, 2024
    [IVORY BLUE released the single “Olé!” on October 4, 2024, Breathing Underwater” on August 9, 2024, “Bad Dreams”on June 7, 2024, “Batter Up” on April 22, 2024, “Bad Dreams”on June 7, 2024, “Batter Up” on April 22, 2024., “Flashback” on March 15, 2024, “Howl” on Feb. 16, 2024. // IVORY BLUE released their second full length album, STARLIT LOVE CHILD, on Nov. 17, 2023. The 10-track album was in the top five of Wednesday MidDay Medley’s 120 Best Recordings of 2023, and in the “Best of” lists at 90.9 The Bridge and other radio stations around the world. For STARLIT LOVE CHILD, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, & vocalist. // On October 27, 2023 IVORY BLUE released the sIngle “Ghost of Life.” This single followed IVORY’s previous releases,”In A World Like This” from September 22, 2023, ”The Best of Life” from August 4, 2023 and “Control” from May 26, 2023. IVORY released the single “All Outta Love” on February 24, 2023. IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on Feb. 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top Ten of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2022. For COMPOUND LOVE, IVORY BLUE served as songwriter, producer, vocalist and played all instruments with the exception of: Lester Estelle on drums, Klaartje Van Lue on piano, Craig Kew on bass, Lennon Bone on drums, and Marco Pascolini on pedal steel guitar. Nick Poortman served in mixing, with Kurt Festge who also served in mixing & Mastering. IVORY BLUE’s debut EP, Ready Get Set was released in June 2015. While the EP helped spread the word and give IVORY BLUE attention from regional radio and TV stations, a big break would come in 2017. In 2017 Ivory was among 1800 artists/bands that competed in neXt2Rock. Ivory won local & regional challenges and advanced to nationals in Los Angeles to win the top prize. // IVORY BLUE has played Crossroads Music Festival, The Middle of the Map Festival, The Westport Roots Festival, the KCPT Screening of “Real Boy” at The KC Public Library, and Kauffman Stadium. // Ivory Blue was born in 1986 in Peoria Illinois, as Devin James Miclettet. Ivory’s birth mother put them up for adoption at the age of four. Ivory speaks about how it was difficult to find trust in people offering their home to someone denied it for so long, Ivory lived with eight different families, before running away at 15. // Ivory has talked with us about how in their life they have turned to music to express pain. Ivory spent most of their childhood looking for a family. In 2010 Klaartje Van Lue saw Ivory performing in a YouTube video and contacted them, flying Ivory to Kansas City, and adopting Ivory into the Van Lue family. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”. // As a multi-instrumentalist, Ivory began refining their performance style, using digital looping pedals to stack harmonies and guitar parts live on stage, giving their solo shows the feel of a full band. In 2011, Ivory settled in Kansas City, MO and quickly began attracting an intense regional following for their strong vocals and incisive, deeply personal lyrics. // By 2013, IVORY BLUE was playing regularly in and around KC and the first EP ‘Ready Get Set’ was released in 2015. IVORY BLUE released the video of “Family Table” directed by Mikal Shapiro, on Aug. 21, 2021 and the audio track was released on Sept. 7, 2021. IVORY BLUE released the single “Good Changes” on Oct 26, 2021. Ivory Blue released the singles: “Heavy,” “Bad Weather,” “It Must Have Been Me,” “Compound Love,” and “The Start” on December 14, 2021. IVORY BLUE released their debut album COMPOUND LOVE on Feb. 25, 2022. IVORY BLUE released the single “Red Light” on July 29, 2022, “Starlit Love Child” on Oct. 28, 2022., “All Outta Love” on Feb. 24, 2023. http://www.ivorybluemusic.com]

15. (#2) Chase Horseman – “Silver Liner”
    from: “Silver Liner” – Single / Chase The Horseman / October 25, 2024
    [Silver Liner drums and additional engineering by Ian Dobyns, Additional vocals by Heidi Gluck. Mastered by Anthony Puglisi. Written, produced, performed and mixed by Chase Horseman at Element Recording. // Chase Horseman has composed music for over 40 films and as musician and producer collaborated with Clairaudients, Teri Quinn, Heidi Lynne Gluck, KD Kuro, Nan Turner and more. Chase The Horseman film composer, band leader, multi-instrumentalist, audio engineer, & producer. They have composed music for over 40 films and as producer collaborated with Teri Quinn, Heidi Lynne Gluck, KD Kuro, and Nan Turner. On April 2, 2024 Chase released the 22 track Original Sound Track for Headcount, a feature film fro the Burghart Brothers, priduced by Continuance Pictures, Methoid Media, and Shout Factory. Chase created the music for two feature-length episodes of the Blum House Films and Hulu original series, “Into the Dark.” In February 2020 Chase released “Poor Song,” a cover of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs track by Karen O Chase played Sequential Circuits Prophet 600, Dave Smith MiniMopho, Korg Minilogue Xd, Moog Grandmother, Roland Alpha Juno 2, Mellotron, Guitar, Drums, Vocals pall erformed by Chase Horseman. Recorded at Element Recording Studios and Winky World. Mixed by Chase Horseman. Mastered by Joel Nanos Chase the Horseman is a band, film composer, multi-instrumentalist, audio engineer, & producer. On May 1 Chase released, a quarantine cover of “Midnight, The Stars and You” written by Harry M. Woods, Jimmy Campbell & Reg Connelly Stanley. The most famous version was recorded in 1934 by Ray Noble & his Orchestra with an uncredited Al Bowlly on vocals. This was used in the ballroom scene and closing of Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror film The Shining based on the novel by Stephen King. All of the profits of this single will be donated directly to service industry workers in Kansas City and Midwest Music Foundation on a 50/50 basis. http://www.chasethehorseman.bandcamp.com. They have composed music for over 40 films and as musician has collaborated Teri Quinn, Heidi Lynne Gluck, KD Kuro, and Nan Turner. Chase The Horseman released Disinformation Blues EP on July 12, 2019. One of WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. Chase released the single “U Martyr U” June 19, 2018, and the single “Modern Ruins” on Oct 4, 2018.]

16. (#1) The Creepy Jingles – “Love Like You”
    from: “Love Like You” – Single / High Dive Records / July 14, 2024
    [This is the third of several new singles being released by The Creepy Jingles this year. The band released “Repeat After Me” on April 19, 2024. The band released “When Things Go Wrong” on February 23, 2024. The Creepy Jingles are a Kansas City based, rock and roll band that both honors and defies convention. Led by singer / song-writer Jocelyn Olivia Nixon, a transgender wordsmith who charms with razor wit and dazzles with her lyrical acrobatics. // Song (lyrics/melody/chords) written by Jocelyn Olivia Nixon. Mixed and Recorded by Paul Malinowski and recorded at Massive Sound Studios in Shawnee, Kansas. Mastered by Zack Hames. Jocelyn Nixon on lead vocals & rhythm guitar, Will Van Doorn on lead guitar & backing vocals, Andrew Woody on bass & backing vocals, Nick Robertson on drums & bait. // The Creepy Jingles released their album, TAKE ME AT MY WORDPLAY on March 25, 2022 through High Dive Records. Paired up with lyrics centering on themes of identity, strained relationships, social media madness, meme magic, pandemic paranoia, paid off political pundits, backyard bullies and barking up the wrong tree. Everything and the kitchen sink or swim. No stoner left unturned. The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019. The release was in the top ten of WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. ] The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019.] [The Creepy Jingles play Apocalypse Meow 17 on Saturday, November 2nd at recordBar,]

You just heard the Top 15 of Wednesday MidDay Medley’s 50 Favorite Singles of 2024. Check http://www.WednesdayMidDayMedley.org or our WMM Facebook page and for the complete list of WMM’s 50 Favorite Singles of 2024.

Tune into WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2024. Tune into Wednesday MidDay Medley throughout December for our 4-week series on December 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th. This is our celebration of the year in music based on the playlists of this little ole radio show. In 2024 we’ve played hundreds of New & MidCoastal Releases. We conducted over 120 interviews with 152 special guests.

11:00 – Station ID

And Now it’s time for Michelle Bacon’s Favorite Musical Releases of 2024

Michelle Bacon, is Content Manager at 90.9 The Bridge, where she shines a light on musicians & events. Michelle has written for KC Options Magazine, The KC Star, Deli Magazine, and Folk Alliance Int. Michelle plays drums in the band Frogpond, and plays bass & drums in many other bands. Michelle is also the leader of The Band That Fell To Earth who will present the 9th Annual 3-day Tribute to Davie Bowie in January 23, 24, and 25, 2025, at recordBar. Michelle will share her Favorite Musical Recordings of 2024.

The Band That Fell To Earth: A Tribute to David Bowie, at recordBar, with: Michelle Bacon on bass, Alex Alexander on guitar, Nathan Corsi on vocals & guitar, Kyle Dahlquist on keyboards, Katy Guillen on guitar, Steve Tulipana on vocals, Stephanie Williams on drums, Havilah Bruders and Julia Haile on backing vocals, Matt Ronan on percussion, Christine Broxterman on cello, Laurel Parks on violin, Rich Wheeler on saxophone, and special guests.

Frogpond plays recordBar 1520 Grand, KCMO, Friday, Nov. 29, with Katy Gullen & The Drive and Mellowphobia, Frogpond’s last show of 2024!

Michelle Bacon, thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

17. (#9) The Highwater – “Spilling (radio edit)”
    from: Spilling EP / The Highwater / April 1, 2024
    [Kansas City band Konrad Hell & The Highwater is in pursuit of 2000s indie coolness. The song is smooth, chic, sexy, rocky, electronic and reminiscent of NYC band The Strokes. The song transports you to a glitzy lounge, where the twinkling lights of a disco ball pour over your face. Despite being dressed in suits with a full band setup and mood lighting to boot, the relaxed nature of Konrad Hell & The Highwater makes it seem like this is just an average night for the group, and they’ll keep jamming long after the camera turns off.

18. (#8) The Roseline – “Keystone of the Heart”
    from: Keystone of the Heart / RPH Records / February 2, 2024
    [Keystone of the Heart is the eighth album from the Lawrence, Kansas based band. The Roseline features: Colin Halliburton on lead vocals, Bradley McKellip on guitar, Heidi Gluck on Keyboards & backing vocals, Colin Jones on bass, Jim Piller on drums, and Chase Horseman on Mellotron. Engineered, produced, and mixed by Joel Nanos at Element Recording Studios in Kansas City, KS Mastered by Carl Saff at Saff Mastering in Chicago, IL. // Keystone of the Heart, is arguably their most distilled, elegant, and emotionally resonant album of their career. Halliburton describes it as “a protest record which protests the dissolution of a marriage, the slog of existence in late stage capitalism, and grotesque hatred and violence.” While this certainly sounds clunky and heavy-handed, Halliburton knows when to inject some levity and humor. Songs which appear dour and grim in the early verses always seem to find some hope and light by their end. Keystone of the Heart offers pure aural aloe for troubled times. // The Roseline played an Album Release Show at The Bottleneck con February 2, 2024 with Suzannah Johannes and Empty Moon. The band will be traveling back to Scandinavia in March.// The Roseline’s 7th album CONSTANCY was released November 5, 2021, was #1 on WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2021. // The Roseline are a Lawrence, KS, based alt-country, Americana, rock band, formed by Colin Halliburton with friends in 2005. The Roseline released their 6th album GOOD / GRIEF on April 3, 2020. The Roseline released BLOOD on September 29, 2017; and TOWNIE on June 19, 2015. The band has toured the US and parts of Europe. Halliburton has completed two European solo tours thus far, taking him through Poland, Germany, Belgium, and The Netherlands. // . The Roseline founder and principal songwriter, Colin Halliburton, began the project as an acoustic folk trio. It has since evolved into the five-piece heartland rock band of its current form. // Kind foreign press and high charting on the Euro Americana Chart (“Lust for Luster,” “Blood,” “GOOD/GRIEF” and “Constancy” all charted in the top 10) led to a deal in the Benelux with Dutch label King Forward Records. The band also released “Vast as Sky” in 2012 with the Bay Area label Ninth Street Opus (home to Sarah Lee Guthrie and Carrie Rodriguez). Aside from those, the project has largely been a truly DIY, independent venture. // The Roseline has had the good fortune of landing placements in indie movies and major network television shows such as ABC’s “Nashville” and “Resurrection,” as well as USA’s “Queen of the South,” Netflix’s “Virgin River” and MTV’s “Teen Mom.” The band’s work has been featured on NPR, “Pop Matters,” “American Songwriter,” “The Bluegrass Situation” and “No Depression,” among others. Colin Halliburton joined us on WMM on March 25, 2020. More info at: https://roselinemusic.com/%5D [The Roseline will tour throughout Sweden and Norway in March.]

19. (#7) The Forcefields – “Slip Away”
    from: “Slip Away” – Single / Frickin’ Awesome Records / February 27, 2024
    [The Forcefields is a brand new project, a new cosmosonic collaboration between Julia Othmer and James T Lundie AKA Aayama & Max Forcefield. The Forcefields presented TRANSMISSION where they debuted for Charlotte Street’s series, In(SITE), highlighting local, regional, and national acts at pivotal points in their practices. In a multidisciplinary collaboration with artists Simon Huntley, Sarah Hearn, and Mikal Shapiro, Transmission is an exploration of cosmic vibrations and soundscapes in a stunning one-night-only production.]

20. (#6) Krystle Warren & The Faculty – “I Had A Crush on Julie”
    from: Extended Play / Parlour Door Music / November 1, 2024
    [Following their double album LOVE SONGS (2012) and their single “Rising” released May 31, 2019, and written especially for Ava DuVernay’s critically acclaimed television mini series WHEN THEY SEE US, “Macca” is the newest release from Krystle Warren & The Faculty, released Macca on May 22, 2023, recorded on the heels of sessions for the band’s upcoming full length album EXTENDED PLAY. // The Faculty was formed with Krystle Warren, Solomon Dorsey, Zach Djanikian, Mike Riddleberger, and Dave Moore. While the four boys had classes and gigs, Krystle floated around New York and made a lot of friends. She busked and wrote songs, and, with the help of her band members and Ben Kane, who had an internship at Electric Lady Studios and was sneaking them in at odd hours, Krystle turned those songs into an e.p. called Diary. // Diary led to Circles, which Ben Kane co-produced with Voodoo engineer Russell “The Dragon” Elevado. Circles was bought by Because Music in France, but Krystle still recorded Love Songs in New York, a double album that invokes a Blakean duality with its two subtitles, ‘A Time to Refrain from Embracing’ and ‘A Time You May Embrace’. // Love Songs​ was produced with most of the Faculty (Zach was on tour with Amos Lee) and a slew of guest musicians in Brian Bender’s Brooklyn studio, The Motherbrain. Bender’s assistant, Jonathan Anderson, would later go on to replace Dave Moore on keys. // The Faculty has always been a tenuous project for everyone involved because of the distance and the schedules. While everyone remains close friends, the band members are spread across the globe. Krystle in France. Riddleberger in New York and Zach in Woodstock. Jonathan in Los Angeles. And then they are all working musicians, touring, recording, and collaborating with an impressive list of artists. Musicians like, in no particular order: D’Angelo, Hercules and Love Affair, Donald Fagen and the Nightfliers, Joan As Police Woman, Jonathan Wilson, Emily King, Janet Jackson, Ron Sexsmith, Amy Helm, Taylor Swift, Rufus Wainwright, Natalie Merchant, Graham Nash, The Knights, Bleachers, Emmylou Harris, Amos Lee, Mayra Andrade, Lana Del Rey, Broken Social Scene, Teddy Thompson, Lakecia Benjamin, and honestly that’s less than the half of it. // So they have been busy, and they have gained a lot of experience since the days of sneaking into ElectricLady late night or playing for meager pay and free wine at an East Village Italian resto. And while Diary, Circles, and Love Songs​ were recorded with everyone in the same room (​Three the Hard Way, Krystle’s solo album, was pared down to her and Kane collectively), Extended Play​ was recorded disparately and assembled together by the steady hands and ears of Kane and Krystle. There is distance between the musicians in the recording process, but there is still a close emotional connection that can be heard in these songs. // The songs that make up ​Extended Play​ are songs of experience—the lyrics reflect on a crush from high school, a departed musical hero, and others who live in memory. There is nostalgia in Extended Play, and a forlornness. // Krystle describes “When I Look Back,” the last song of the album, as “an apology to my teenage self.” Twenty years ago she was writing songs about what happened day-of because being young is about immediacy and living in the present tense. Now the songs are about years past because life slows down, and we are allowed the time to “look back.”// But as Krystle sings in “Rising,” “Future lingers while past is present.” She’s writing about the past because we are all our collected histories—or as she puts it in “When I Look Back”: “there’s still something of her that stays.” The future, of course, still lingers, always there waiting for us, for the next move. The album ends with a recording of Audre Lorde’s gravelly voice. She says, // I’m going on to something else, the shape of which, I have no idea. ‘Only thing I know is, it’s going to be quite different. What I leave behind has a life of its own – I’ve said this about poetry … Well in a sense, I’m saying it about the very artifact of who I have been. // Krystle Warren & The Faculty still have more to come. They have built twenty years of memories, experiences, recordings, and shows, and with the release of Extended Play,​ they continue to show a commitment to growing as musicians together, even if apart. The Extended Play bio written by Phil Anderson]

21. (#5) Lava Dreams – “Driver”
    from: “Driver” – Single / Lava Dreams / May 24th, 2024
    [Lava Dreams releases their first new music of the year – a single titled “DRIVER.” The alternative pop anthem – produced by Spencer Hoad and written by Lava Dreams – brandishes hard-hitting drums, funky bass lines, and powerful vocals.You just heard the voice of Lava Dreams (she/they) a queer, multidisciplinary artist, performer, and songwriter based in Kansas City, Missouri – who’s been writing music for as long as they can remember.​ Flourishing dreamy vocals, vulnerable lyrics, and visceral rhythms- hooking listeners through catchy melodies and electric performances – Lava Dreams is quickly becoming a striking figure in the Alternative Pop scene. Her 2020 project “GOOD ENERGY + FOCUS,” was praised by 90.9 The Bridge as one of the best EPs of that year and was part of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2020. Since then, Lava has written and released a series of evolving singles – the latest of which is an alternative pop-rock anthem called “YOUR WARRIOR.” She directed and starred in the music video that accompanied its release.​ Lava Dreams is dedicated to writing songs that lift the spirit and connect to the soul. You can listen to Lava Dreams everywhere you stream music. More info at: http://www.lavadreamsmusic.com]

11:27 – Underwriting

22. (#4) Flight Attendant – “Therapy Couch (Radio Edit)”
    from: Under The Power Lines / Flight Attendant / November 15, 2024
    [“Flight Attendant delivers an experience,” – Rolling Stone Magazine. Flight Attendant belongs to that breed of rock bands made in Nashville, USA; where their sound is nothing less than a sonic unicorn. Blending sounds of grunge with power-pop hooks, viola and light synth textures, they have begun to create a hypnotic sound and energy all of their own. Glide Magazine says that Lead Singer Karalyne, “Commands your attention like Freddie Mercury working the crowd in an arena.” Flight Attendant band has been compared to Haim and Fleetwood Mac, or as TurnuptheVolume puts it, “Think Warpaint having a dance with Best Coast,” – This “Nashville based eclectic-indie band….is ready for take off”, Velvet Thunder. // Karalyne Winegarner lead singer of Flight Attendant, a Nashville based five piece band that formed while in the service of food and beverage. Karalyne, a certified sommelier from Kansas City, crossed paths with Vinny, an award-winning bartender from Boston, while they were working and making music together for fun. They were soon joined by their co-worker Nikki from Los Angeles, Derek from Boston, and Peyton, all fellow bartenders. Since their inception, Flight Attendant has released standout singles like “Man of Chaos” and “Therapy Couch,” which has received significant radio play. They’ve played sold-out shows from Austin to Nashville to Munich Germany, and at major festivals including SXSW, Boulevardia, Tomato Arts Fest, and the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest. Their eagerly awaited sophomore album, Under The Powerlines, \will be released on November 15. 2024. Flight Attendant is a five piece band that includes: Karalyne on lead vocals & keyboard, Vinny Maniscalco on vocals & guitar, Nikki Christie on vocals & viola, Derek Sprague on drums, anmd Peyton Rodeffer on vocals & bass. ]

23. (#3) The Freedom Affair – “If You Don’t Want Me”
    from: “If You Don’t Want Me” – Single / Sunflower Soul Records / May 15, 2024
    [The Freedom Affair is a 9 piece soul juggernaut from Kansas City, MO. The band formed in 2017 with a vision to write original soul music inspired by the traditions of the genre’s past with a universal message looking toward the future. Their new single “If You Don’t Want Me” features: Shon Ruffin on vocals, Seyko Groves on vocals, Paula Saunders on vocals, Cole Bales on guitar, Branden Moser on guitar, Chris Hazelton on bass, Dave Brick on drums, Pete Carroll on trumpet, Brett Jackson on tenor Sax, Pat Conway on congas, and Nick Howell on tambourine. Written, Recorded & Mixed by Chris Hazelton. Mastered by JJ Golden // With their debut album FREEDOM IS LOVE, The Freedom Affair has received critical acclaim and have established themselves as a force in the soul music scene across the states and abroad. Keep your eyes and ears open for their songs and album art featured in the series Bel-Air, an Apple commercial, a Netflix series, etc… This band is just getting started. // The Freedom Affair’s live shows have proven to be soul-stirring, transformative events moving audiences both physically and emotionally to joy. // The Freedom Affair released their debut album Freedom Is Love on September 25, 2020. from The album explores themes of love, heartache, empower-ment, and togetherness through a varying landscape of hard-hitting funk, luscious soul, and everything in between. The album was recorded and produced by Chris Hazelton, utilizing the best of vintage and new recording techno-logies to create an authentic experience, befitting of a soul record that would have been relevant 50 years ago as much as it will be 50 years from now. For the debut record The Freedom Affair was: Misha Roberts on vocals; Paula Saunders on vocals; Seyko Groves on vocals; Cole Bales on guitar, sitar (Track 3); Branden Moser on guitar; Chris Hazelton on bass guitar, organ (Tracks 1, 2, 9, & 10), Tambourine (Track 1), Glockenspiel (Track 3), & Chimes (Track 4); Dave Brick on drums; Pete Carroll on trumpet; Brett Jackson on tenor sax, baritone sax (Tracks 1 & 5), & tambourine (Tracks 5, 6, & 8). Additional Musicians: Pat Conway on Congas (Tracks 1, 3, & 6), Alyssa Bell on viola (Tracks 3, 4, & 7), Elizabeth Codd on violin (Tracks 3 & 4), Matt Bennett on violin (Tracks 3 & 7), John Wickersham on timpani (Track 4), Pamela Baskin-Watson on piano (Track 10), Nick Howell on tambourine (Track 10), The Freedom Family Choir (Track 10): Misha Roberts, Erica Hazelton, Seyko Groves, Paula Saunders, Jordyn Saunders, Cole Bales, and Chris Hazelton. All Horn & String Arrangements by Chris Hazelton except: “Heartaches Don’t Come Easy” and “Give A Little Love” by Pete Carroll & Brett Jackson “Don’t Shoot” by Chris Hazelton & Allyssa Bell. Produced, Recorded, & Mixed by Chris Hazelton. Assistant Produced by Dave Brick. Rhythm Section on Track 10 recorded by Chad Meise. Mastered by JJ Golden. Cover Artwork by Matthew “Mo” Manley. Front cover photograph of civil rights protesters in Kansas City, MO (April 9th, 1968). The Freedom Affair and their track “Rise Up” were selected to be part of Colemine Records 3xLP box set, “Soul Slabs Vol. 2” a Record Store Day Exclusive, released April 13, 2019. Colemine writes: “The Freedom Affair is a freight train of KC soul! Dirty, funky drums, gritty horns] [The Freedom Affair play The 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest Saturday,]

24. (#2) Waxahatchee – “Lone Star Lake”
    from: Tiger’s Blood / Merge Records / March 22, 2024
    [Kansas City based Katie Crutchfield’s southern roots are undeniable. The name of her solo musical project Waxahatchee comes from a creek not far from her childhood home in Alabama and seems to represent both where she came from and where she’s going. // Tiger’s Blood was produced by Brad Cook. Engineered & mixed by Gerardo “Jerry” Ordonez. Assistant engineering by Natalia Chernitsky. Mastered by Emily Lazar. Recorded and Mixed at Sonic Ranch Recording Studios. // On March 27, 2020 Waxahatchee released SAINT CLOUD which was in the TOP 20 of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2020. On Saint Cloud all songs were written by Katie Crutchfield. Recorded & mixed at Sonic Ranch in Tornillo, TX & Long Pond in Stuyvesant, NY. Produced by Brad Cook. Engineered by Jerry Ordonez. Additional engineering by Jon Low. Mixed by Jon Low. Mastered by Brent Lambert at The Kitchen. KATIE CRUTCHFIELD on vocals, acoustic guitar, piano, keys; BRAD COOK on bass, acoustic guitar, piano, keys, synth; BOBBY COLOMBO on electric guitar, acoustic guitar, keys; BILL LENNOX on electric guitar, acoustic guitar, keys, percussion; NICK KINSEY on drums, percussion; JOSH KAUFMAN on electric guitars, piano, organ, percussion. More info at: http://www.waxahatchee.com.] [Waxahatchee plays the Uptown Theatre on April 18, 2024]

25. (#1) Sampha & Little Simz – “Satellite Business 2.0”
    from: Lahai (Deluxe) / Young / October 1, 2024
    [Satellite Business 2.0″ is a song by the British musicians Sampha and Little Simz, which was released on 16 July 2024 as the first single from the deluxe edition of Sampha’s Lahai album. It is a reworking of the Lahai track “Satellite Business”, and was first performed with Little Simz at Sampha’s sold out Alexandra Palace shows last year. // Speaking about the collaboration with Simz, Sampha said that “Satellite Business was one of the last tracks to be recorded for Lahai and I’d always imagined a guest verse to expand on it. Simz’s music has been close to my heart and ears for sometime now which makes her being on this song that more special. She’s one of my favourite artists.” // Little Simz added that she was “so honoured to be a part of this record with Sampha”, labeling him “one of the most important voices in music today”. She added: “We have great musical chemistry and respect of each other’s process. Glad I got to stand alongside him on this. // Sampha Lahai Sisay (born November 16, 1988) is a British singer, songwriter, musician and record producer from Morden, South London. Sampha has collaborated with Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Frank Ocean, SBTRKT, Jessie Ware, Gorillaz, Travis Scott, Kanye West, Solange and others. Sampha has released two solo EPs: Sundanza (2010) and Dual (2013). Sampha’s debut album, Process, was released on 3 February 2017 by Young and won the 2017 Mercury Prize. His second album, Lahai, was released on 20 October 2023. // Simbiatu “Simbi” Abisola Abiola Ajikawo (born 23 February 1994),better known by her stage name Little Simz, is an English-Nigerian rapper. She rose to prominence with the independent release of her first three albums: A Curious Tale of Trials + Persons (2015), Stillness in Wonderland (2016) and Grey Area (2019), the last of which was shortlisted for the Mercury Prize and won the awards for Best Album at both the Ivor Novello Awards and the NME Awards. // Her fourth album, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert (2021), received widespread critical acclaim, with several publications deeming it the best album of 2021. It went on to win the 2022 Mercury Prize. It also earned her the 2022 Brit Award for Best New Artist and the Libera Award for Best Hip-Hop/Rap Record. Her fifth album, No Thank You (2022), was released to critical acclaim. Most recently, she dropped her EP Drop 7 on 9 February 2024. // Outside of music, Ajikawo has starred in the Netflix revival drama series Top Boy.]

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

Michelle Bacon, is Content Manager at 90.9 The Bridge, where she shines a light on musicians & events. Michelle has written for KC Options Magazine, The KC Star, Deli Magazine, and Folk Alliance Int. Michelle plays drums in the band Frogpond, and plays bass & drums in many other bands. Michelle is also the leader of The Band That Fell To Earth who will present the 9th Annual 3-day Tribute to Davie Bowie in January 23, 24, and 25, 2025, at recordBar. Michelle will share her Favorite Musical Recordings of 2024.

The Band That Fell To Earth: A Tribute to David Bowie, at recordBar, with: Michelle Bacon on bass, Alex Alexander on guitar, Nathan Corsi on vocals & guitar, Kyle Dahlquist on keyboards, Katy Guillen on guitar, Steve Tulipana on vocals, Stephanie Williams on drums, Havilah Bruders and Julia Haile on backing vocals, Matt Ronan on percussion, Christine Broxterman on cello, Laurel Parks on violin, Rich Wheeler on saxophone, and special guests.

Frogpond plays recordBar 1520 Grand, KCMO, Friday, Nov. 29, with Katy Gullen & The Drive and Mellowphobia, Frogpond’s last show of 2024!

Michelle Bacon, thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

NEXT WEEK, on Tuesday, November 26, at 6:00 pm I will be on Eight One Sixty w/ Chris Haghirian on 90.9 The Bridge sharing some of my own Favorite Releases of 2024.

NEXT WEEK on Wed., Nov. 27, Bill Brownlee, creator of the blogs: There Stands The Glass, & Plastic Sax, Judy Mills, owner of Mills Record Company, Chris Haghirian, host of 8160 on 90.9 The Bridge, and Fally Afani – Founder & Editor of I Heart Local Music will share their Favorite Musical Releases of 2024.

In 2 weeks we begin WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2024. Tune into WMM thru Dec. for our 4-week series on Dec. 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25th. This is our celebration of the year in music based on the playlists of this little ole radio show. In 2024 we’ve played hundreds of New & MidCoastal Releases. We conducted over 120 interviews with 152 special guests.

Thank you to all who have donated during our two Fall Fund Drive Show on Wednesday MidDay Medley and our WMM Facebook Fundraiser, we received donations from 46 individuals who donated a total of $3436.00. That is 97% of our ambitious goal, I call that a success!!!

THANK YOU to our incredible KKFI Staff; Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers, KKFI Accounting & Administration – Shaina Littler

This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. Instead it is about a collective spirit of hundreds of hardworking people, unselfishly setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the gigantic goal of keeping our airwaves free, non-commercial, and open to all! Congratulations and thank you to all programmers & volunteers who went the extra effort to keep our station alive.

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

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Use our search engine to learn more about musical artists we play.

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Show #1070

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 20, 2024

Michelle Bacon’s Favorite Releases of 2024 +
Wednesday MidDay Medley’s Favorite 15 Singles of 2024

We’ll spin releases from: Kemet Coleman ft. Flare Tha Rebel & Kadesh Flow, Akkilles, IVORY BLUE, Chase Horseman, The Epitome, The Creepy Jingles, Mikal Shapiro & The Musical, VCMN & Joel Leoj, Daniel Gum, Just Angel, Dragon Inn 3, Arson Class, Stephonne, pure xtc, Monta At Odds, The Highwater, The Roseline, The Forcefields, Krystle Warren & the Faculty, Lava Dreams, Flight Attendant, The Freedom Affair, Waxahatchee, and Sampha with Little Simz.

At 10:00 Mark counts down Wednesday MidDay Medley’s Favorite 15 Singles of 2024. 2024 was a year loaded with hundreds of single releases with many area artists releasing multiple singles These 15 tracks are part of WMM’s Top 50 Favorite Singles of 2024

At 11:00 AM we welcome Michelle Bacon, Content Manager at 90.9 The Bridge, where she helps to shine a light on area musicians and events. Michelle has also written for The Kansas City Star, The Deli Magazine KC, and Folk Alliance International. Michelle plays drums in the band Frogpond, and plays bass and drums in many other bands too. Michelle is also the organizer and leader of The Band That Fell To Earth who in 2025 will present the 8th Annual 3-day Tribute to Davie Bowie at recordBar. Michelle Bacon joins us to share her Favorite Musical Recordings of 2024.

NEXT WEEK, on November 27, Bill Brownlee – Music Writer for the blogs: There Stands The Glass, and Plastic Sax, Judy Mills – owner of Mills Record Company, Chris Haghirian – Host of Eight One Sixty on 90.9 The Bridge, and Fally Afani – Founder & Editor of I Heart Local Music will share their Favorite Musical Releases of 2024.

In two weeks we begin the WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2024. Tune into Wednesday MidDay Medley throughout December for our 4-week series on December 4th, 11th, 18th, and 25th. This is our celebration of the year in music based on the playlists of this little ole radio show. In 2024 we’ve played hundreds of New & MidCoastal Releases. We conducted over 120 interviews with 152 special guests.

Tune in on 90.1 FM KKFI
or streaming live at kkfi.org

Show #1070

Wednesday MidDay Medley
Produced and Hosted by Mark Manning
90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio
TEN to NOON Wednesdays – Streaming at KKFI.org

Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Apocalypse Meow 17 + Krystle Warren + Scott Heidmann & Ken Petti + Rachel Yturralde

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. Dan Camino – “Dreamgirl”
   from: Rock Dreams / Camino Records / October 4, 2024
   [Released as a single with “Connections” on September 6, 2024. Solo debut album from Kansas City-based artist Dan Camino who is also the frontman of Field Daze. Dan Camino wrote that he put at least 1000 hours of his life into the production of this album, almost two years, and did all the heavy lifting besides drums on the first two songs. // Field Daze, is an Indie Rock/Dreampop band, originated in Kansas City, Missouri when Rodd Fenton and Dan Camino responded to a Facebook call to start a Dreampop band. Their collaboration led to the creation of early demos. Shortly after, they were joined by Tracer Cauy, Kyer Lasswell, and Beau Harris, solidifying the band’s lineup. // The band has packed venues like The Rino, The Ship, and The Bottleneck. Field Daze’s live performances became synonymous with an immersive musical experience, drawing in crowds with their captivating melodies. // Currently, the band channels their creativity by recording homegrown tracks within Rodd Fenton’s personal studio, honing their craft and evolving their unique sound.]

3. Adriana Nikole – “Unglued”
   from: “Unglued” – Single / Adriana Nikole / September 13, 2024
   [“Unglued is one of several new singles Adriana Nicole has released this year. Hailing from the Detroit area, Adriana Nikole carries an old sound. Channeling Motown and an early jazz vibe, she sings with soul and passion, with a touch of grit at times. Her time in Kansas City has helped her grow as an artist. Her writing is honest, raw, and will either break your heart or make you get up and dance..Adriana Nikole started performing at open mics in Michigan in her early 2000’s, and then started writing songs, and getting gigs. Adriana moved to Knoxville then to Nashville TN performing on the street for a few months then finally settled in Kansas City, MO after her parents moved here for their work. Nikole’s music is rooted in Motown, 50’s doo wop, old school country, and love of experimenting and singing with electronic music as well.]

4. Krystle Warren & The Faculty – “Without U”
   from: Extended Play / Parlour Door Music / November 1, 2024
   [Following their double album LOVE SONGS (2012) and their single “Rising” released May 31, 2019, and written especially for Ava DuVernay’s critically acclaimed television mini series WHEN THEY SEE US, “Macca” is the newest release from Krystle Warren & The Faculty, released Macca on May 22, 2023, recorded on the heels of sessions for the band’s upcoming full length album EXTENDED PLAY. // The Faculty was formed with Krystle Warren, Solomon Dorsey, Zach Djanikian, Mike Riddleberger, and Dave Moore. While the four boys had classes and gigs, Krystle floated around New York and made a lot of friends. She busked and wrote songs, and, with the help of her band members and Ben Kane, who had an internship at Electric Lady Studios and was sneaking them in at odd hours, Krystle turned those songs into an e.p. called Diary. // Diary led to Circles, which Ben Kane co-produced with Voodoo engineer Russell “The Dragon” Elevado. Circles was bought by Because Music in France, but Krystle still recorded Love Songs in New York, a double album that invokes a Blakean duality with its two subtitles, ‘A Time to Refrain from Embracing’ and ‘A Time You May Embrace’. // Love Songs​ was produced with most of the Faculty (Zach was on tour with Amos Lee) and a slew of guest musicians in Brian Bender’s Brooklyn studio, The Motherbrain. Bender’s assistant, Jonathan Anderson, would later go on to replace Dave Moore on keys. // The Faculty has always been a tenuous project for everyone involved because of the distance and the schedules. While everyone remains close friends, the band members are spread across the globe. Krystle in France. Riddleberger in New York and Zach in Woodstock. Jonathan in Los Angeles. And then they are all working musicians, touring, recording, and collaborating with an impressive list of artists. Musicians like, in no particular order: D’Angelo, Hercules and Love Affair, Donald Fagen and the Nightfliers, Joan As Police Woman, Jonathan Wilson, Emily King, Janet Jackson, Ron Sexsmith, Amy Helm, Taylor Swift, Rufus Wainwright, Natalie Merchant, Graham Nash, The Knights, Bleachers, Emmylou Harris, Amos Lee, Mayra Andrade, Lana Del Rey, Broken Social Scene, Teddy Thompson, Lakecia Benjamin, and honestly that’s less than the half of it. // So they have been busy, and they have gained a lot of experience since the days of sneaking into ElectricLady late night or playing for meager pay and free wine at an East Village Italian resto. And while Diary, Circles, and Love Songs​ were recorded with everyone in the same room (​Three the Hard Way, Krystle’s solo album, was pared down to her and Kane collectively), Extended Play​ was recorded disparately and assembled together by the steady hands and ears of Kane and Krystle. There is distance between the musicians in the recording process, but there is still a close emotional connection that can be heard in these songs. // The songs that make up ​Extended Play​ are songs of experience—the lyrics reflect on a crush from high school, a departed musical hero, and others who live in memory. There is nostalgia in Extended Play, and a forlornness. // Krystle describes “When I Look Back,” the last song of the album, as “an apology to my teenage self.” Twenty years ago she was writing songs about what happened day-of because being young is about immediacy and living in the present tense. Now the songs are about years past because life slows down, and we are allowed the time to “look back.”// But as Krystle sings in “Rising,” “Future lingers while past is present.” She’s writing about the past because we are all our collected histories—or as she puts it in “When I Look Back”: “there’s still something of her that stays.” The future, of course, still lingers, always there waiting for us, for the next move. The album ends with a recording of Audre Lorde’s gravelly voice. She says, // I’m going on to something else, the shape of which, I have no idea. ‘Only thing I know is, it’s going to be quite different. What I leave behind has a life of its own – I’ve said this about poetry … Well in a sense, I’m saying it about the very artifact of who I have been. // Krystle Warren & The Faculty still have more to come. They have built twenty years of memories, experiences, recordings, and shows, and with the release of Extended Play,​ they continue to show a commitment to growing as musicians together, even if apart. The Extended Play bio written by Phil Anderson]

5. Krystle Warren – “Rising”
   from: Extended Play / Parlour Door Music / November 1, 2024
   [Krystle Warren & The Faculty released “Rising” as a single through Parlour Door Music on May 31, 2019. We didn’t know about this single until 2020 so we made if part ot WMM’s 50 Favorite Singles of 2020. This single was produced by co-founding member of The Faculty, bassist Solomon Dorsey. I was texting with Krystle over the weekend after the KC Bands Together weekend 6-hour streaming concert where Krystle shared three songs including a cover of Gerry Raferty’s “The Ark” from his 1978 album, City to City. Krystle was currently doing over dubs on “Rising” that will be included on the new Krystle Warren & The Faculty album called, “Extended Play.” Krystle told me that they had wanted to do album cover photos during a concert that was scheduled in Kansas City in March, but was cancelled due to COVID-19. Getting everyone together has not been possible. Krystle was hoping for a late 2020 release, but plans were put on hold and the band released an EP call The Crew covering 4 songs to inspire the Black Lives Movement of 2020. Krystle Warren learned to play the guitar by listening to Rubber Soul & Revolver from The Beatles. Krystle graduated from Paseo Arts Academy in 2001 and began her musical career in collaborating with area jazz and pop musicians. After living in San Francisco and NYC, Krystle was signed to a French label, Because Music, and moved to Paris to release “Circles” in 2009. Krystle played French and British television programs, including Later with Jools Holland, garnering critical acclaim and traveling all over the world with Rufus Wainwright, Nick Cave, Norah Jones, and Joan As Police Woman. Krystle created, Parlour Door Music, to release “Love Songs: A Time You May Embrace” a recording from a 13-day session in Brooklyn, where she recorded 24 songs live with 28 musicians including her band, The Faculty, alongside choirs, horn and string sections. Krystle Warren played KC Bands Together – A Livestream Concert Saturday, May 16. Krystle was our guest on WMM on September 23, 2020. Krystle Warren was our most played artist of 2020 on WMM Krystle was our guest on WMM on July 28, 2021, April 26, 2023, May q7, 2023, May 24, 2023, June 12, 2024, and today October 30, 2024. Krystle has been on WMM 19 times.]

10:18 – Interview with Krystle Warren

Thanks for tuning into WMM on 90.1 FM KKFI. I’m Mark Manning. Today on WMM we are so excited to welcome back to the show, KC born and internationally known singer songwriter Krystle Warren who joins us live on the phone from France to shares details about her band The Faculty’s new album, Extended Play to be released on Friday, November 1, 2024.

Krystle is one of our most played artists, of all time, on this radio show. Krystle is also one of our most frequent guests, today is her 19th appearance on our show.

Krystle Warren began performing in her native KC at the age of 16. Krystle graduated from Paseo Arts Academy and in 2001 began her musical career collaborating with area jazz and pop musicians. After moving to New York City, she started busking on the streets and later formed her band, The Faculty. After her independent EP release, Diary, Krystle was signed to Paris based music label Because Music who sent her a one-way ticket. Krystle Warren & The Faculty released the album CIRCLES in 2009. The epic double album release, LOVE SONGS… followed in 2011, and contained twenty-four songs about love, and was recorded in New York City over the span of two weeks, with close to thirty musicians. Around this time, Krystle joined forces with one of her musical idols, Rufus Wainwright, on his world tour as an opener and bandmate. Krystle Warren then released her solo album THREE THE HARD WAY, in 2017 where she played every instrument and reunited with producer Ben Kane. On May 31, 2019 Krystle Warren & The Faculty released heir single “Rising” written especially for Ava DuVernay’s critically acclaimed television mini series WHEN THEY SEE US. When the pandemic put The Faculty’s new album on hold, Krystle released the 4-song EP, THE CREW on September 15, 2020. Last year Krystle released the single “Macca” on May 22, 2023, and the single “La Dolce Vita” This year on March 1, 2024. Her band The Faculty will finally release their album, EXTENDED PLAY on November 1. More info at: http://www.krystlewarren.com

Krystle Warren, thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

The Faculty was formed in 2006 with Krystle Warren, Solomon Dorsey, Zach Djanikian, Mike Riddleberger, and Dave Moore. Jonathan Anderson, would later go on to replace Dave Moore on keys. the band members are spread across the globe working musicians, touring, recording, and collaborating with musicians like: D’Angelo, Hercules and Love Affair, Donald Fagen and the Nightfliers, Joan As Police Woman, Emily King, Janet Jackson, Ron Sexsmith, Taylor Swift, Rufus Wainwright, Natalie Merchant, Graham Nash, Emmylou Harris, Amos Lee, Lana Del Rey, Broken Social Scene, Teddy Thompson, Lakecia Benjamin, and more.

Last time you were with us was in June when you were back here in KC to perform at The Percheron Rooftop Series at Crossroads Hotel and Boulevadia.

You played live on WMM w/ Jean Fabien Dijoud aka “Jeff” doing “Macca”

Krystle Warren’s song “Macca” arrived unexpectedly and was recorded on the heels of sessions for the band’s upcoming full length album EXTENDED PLAY. Following their double album LOVE SONGS (2012) and their single “Rising” written especially for Ava DuVernay’s critically acclaimed television mini series WHEN THEY SEE US, “Macca” is the newest release from Krystle Warren & The Faculty, that was recorded on the heels of sessions for the band’s upcoming full length album EXTENDED PLAY.”Macca” arrived unexpectedly. // “A Pal contacted me to help work on the music for an advertisement he was piecing together. My job was to find a melody and put words to it, so I set up my mic and started trying out ideas. And then POW! ‘ ‘Hang then upon the moon…’ – it sounded so distinctly Paul. Immediately I worried that the client would accept my buddy’s sunm,ission; thankfully, they didn’t.” // The “Paul” Krystle is referring to is Paul McCartney, whose famous nickname entitles the song. // “He is such a huge inspiration for me. As a songwriter – my love of melody, the little quirks that come out lyrically – that’s all thanks to him. Nd singing that chorus — it evoked for me those gorgeous ballads he composed in the 80s – ‘Wanderlust,” ‘Tug Of War’…There’s a bit of Wings there as well, I think, with a nod to ‘I’m Carrying.’ // “What’s wild to me is that, though I decided. ‘This is for Paul,’ it became equalk parts: a love letter to him, and a note of encouragement to me. Which is a wonderul thing when you think about it: Paul’s music so often encourages us to keep going, keep trying, and in using hs language (so to speak), unwittingly, he was giving me strength.” // “What’s wild to me is that, though I decided. ‘This is for Paul, it became equal parts a love letter to him, and a note of encouragement to me. Which is a wonderful thing when you think about it: Paul’s music so often encourages us to keep going, keep trying, and in using his language so to speak, unwittingly, he was giving me strength.”]

Krystle Warren & Solomon Dorsey headlined the KC Folk Fest 2023 on Saturday, May 20, in Washington Square Park, Kansas City, MO.

Earlier this year Krystle Warren & The Faculty released the 6:16 “LA DOLCE VITA” – Single / Parlour Door Music / March 1, 2024

The Faculty formed in 2006 w/ Krystle Warren, Solomon Dorsey, Zach Djanikian, Mike Riddleberger, and Dave Moore. With the help of Ben Kane, who had an internship at Electric Lady Studios and was sneaking them in at odd hours, Krystle created Diary an EP.

Diary led to the full length, Circles, which Ben Kane co-produced with Voodoo engineer Russell “The Dragon” Elevado.

Krystle Warren then recorded Love Songs, a double album, ‘A Time to Refrain from Embracing’ and ‘A Time You May Embrace’ in NYC, with most of the Faculty and a slew of guest musicians in Brian Bender’s Brooklyn studio. Bender’s assistant, Jonathan Anderson, would later go on to replace Dave Moore on keys.

While everyone remains close friends, the band members are spread across the globe. Krystle in France. Riddleberger in New York, and Zach in Woodstock. Solomon and Jonathan in Los Angeles. And then they are all working musicians, touring, recording, and collaborating with musicians like: D’Angelo, Hercules and Love Affair, Donald Fagen and the Nightfliers, Joan As Police Woman, Emily King, Janet Jackson, Ron Sexsmith, Taylor Swift, Rufus Wainwright, Natalie Merchant, Graham Nash, Emmylou Harris, Amos Lee, Lana Del Rey, Broken Social Scene, Teddy Thompson, Lakecia Benjamin, and more. More info at http://www.krystlewarrenandthefaculty.com

Krystle Warren & The Faculty Discography

Krystle Warren & The Faculty has released the EP “Diary” on May 1, 2007

Krystle Warren released “The Up Series – EP” on November 10, 2008

Krystle Warren releases the 13-song Album CIRCLES on March 13, 2009

Krystle Warren & The Faculty released “A Time To Keep – Love Songs EP”, Aug. 12, 2011

Krystle Warren & The Faculty released the double album 24-song “Love Songs” released on vinyl in Europe on April 9, 2012 as “Love Songs: A Time to Embrace,” and “Love Songs: A Time to Refrain from Embracing. ” And released on separate digital and CD albums in the United States as: “Love Songs: A Time to Embrace,” on March 13, 2012 and “Love Songs: A Time to Refrain from Embracing” on February 27, 2015

Krystle Warren released the album THREE THE HARDWAY on August 18, 2017

Krystle Warren & The Faculty released the single “Rising” on May 31, 2019

Krystle Warren & The Crew released the 4-song EP, THE CREW on September 15, 2020

Krystle Warren & The Faculty released the single “Macca”on May 22, 2023
Krystle Warren & The Faculty released the single “LA DOLCE VITA” on March 1, 2024

---

From Diary EP to Extended Play A Truncated History of Krystle Warren & The Faculty
From http://www.krystalwarren.com written by Phil Anderson:

Krystle Krystle Warren met Solomon Dorsey some weekend at a high school debate competition in KC. After she had trounced Solomon’s debate partner, the two ended up in an open classroom where they began playing music—Krystle had brought her guitar and was practicing chords, and Solomon, then an accomplished violinist, cellist, bassist, and singer likely had some sort of instrument on him, and even if he didn’t he had his voice.

Due to some specific details we’re not going to get into, Krystle was already living on her own; she was eighteen and he was seventeen. But she had a friend who had an apartment near hers, and this friend was having a party. “Wanna go?” she asked Solomon. And, as Solomon puts it, he has seen or spoken to Krystle every single day of his life since.

So when Solomon decided to attend the jazz program at New School in New York, he asked Krystle, “Wanna go?” And a few months after he moved, Krystle showed up. On her first night in the city, Solomon introduced her to Zach Djanikian, a saxophonist he’d become fast friends with at school. They lived in the same dorm, and Zach and Solomon took Krystle to a practice room in the basement and the three of them played musical games. According to Zach, “We’d sing as many melodies as we could over four open strings of the upright bass, plucked successively. ‘Norwegian Wood’ and the theme to ​Family Matters​ were a couple favorites.”

This led to busking as a trio, and each of them was hustling for gigs. An Italian restaurant that featured live music gave Krystle a regular night, and she often had Solomon and Zach play with her. Zach’s friend from Philadelphia, Ben Kane, would come to these nights, and he brought Mike Riddleberger.

In Philly, Zach was in a band called The Brakes, and Ben Kane was producing an album for Zach’s band in a windowless apartment that he shared with Riddleberger. Kane and Riddleberger had become friends a year earlier at NYU, bonding over their love of D’Angelo’s album Voodoo. Riddleberger says that even though he saw Krystle perform, he didn’t speak to her until after she saw him play with his band, Quintus. Zach had brought her, and she approached him after the show to play in a band she was starting.

The Faculty was formed with Krystle, Solomon, Zach, Riddleberger, and Dave Moore, a keyboardist from Kansas who was at New School, too. While the four boys had classes and gigs, Krystle floated around New York and made a lot of friends. She busked and wrote songs, and, with the help of her band members and Ben Kane, who had an internship at ElectricLady Studios and was sneaking them in at odd hours, Krystle turned those songs into an EP called DIARY.

And it was a diary. The songs were about her daily experiences in this new place and with these new people. “I’ve Seen Days” has a title that implies a reflection, but it’s about how the world is new to her, how she’s “a frightened child” in a new city. “The New Astrologer” is about a new and exciting love, one that remains a good friend of hers. “A Song For Holly” is a letter to family explaining her new quotidien life (“your big sister / out in New York on some subway / your big sister, out trying to get paid”). And “Central Park” is a document of a night she had in Central Park with Zach and his boyfriend (now husband) Jesse, and how she is coming to embrace this new city, these new people, and this new chapter of her life.

If DIARY, the Faculty’s first recordings, is Krystle’s “Songs of Innocence,” then EXTENDED PLAY, the Faculty’s latest, is Krystle’s “Songs of Experience.”

Diary led to CIRCLES, which Ben Kane co-produced with Voodoo engineer Russell “The Dragon” Elevado. Circles was bought by Because Music in France, and Krystle had her next move. She stayed in France even when her relationship with Because ended because she found Vanessa, and Vanessa was worth staying in France for. But Krystle still recorded ​LOVE SONGS in New York, a double album that invokes a Blakean duality with its two subtitles, “A Time to Refrain from Embracing” and “A Time You May Embrace.” LOVE SONGS was produced with most of the Faculty (Zach was on tour with Amos Lee) and a slew of guest musicians in Brian Bender’s Brooklyn studio. Bender’s assistant, Jonathan Anderson, would later go on to replace Dave Moore on keys in the Faculty.

The Faculty has always been a tenuous project for everyone involved because of the distance and the schedules. While everyone remains close friends, the band members are spread across the globe. Krystle in France. Riddleberger in NYC and Zach in Woodstock. Solomon and Jonathan in LA. And then they are all working musicians, touring, recording, and collaborating with an impressive list of artists. Musicians like: D’Angelo, Hercules and Love Affair, Donald Fagen and the Nightfliers, Joan As Policewoman, Jose James, Emily King, Janet Jackson, Ron Sexsmith, The Dixie Chicks, Amy Helm, Stevie Wonder, Taylor Swift, Rufus Wainwright, Kylie Minogue, Sara Bareilles, Natalie Merchant, Kesha, Bleachers, Emylou Harris, Amos Lee, Lana Del Rey, Broken Social Scene, Teddy Thompson, Lakecia Benjamin, Jenny Lewis, that’s less than the half of it.

So they have been busy, and they have gained a lot of experience since the days of sneaking into ElectricLady late night or playing for meager pay and free wine at an East Village Italian resto. And while DIARY and CIRCLES and LOVE SONGS were recorded with everyone in the same room (THREE THE HARDWAY was just Krystle & Kane together), EXTENDED PLAY was recorded disparately and assembled together by the steady hands and ears of Kane and Krystle. There is distance between the musicians in the recording process, but there is still a close emotional connection that can be heard in these songs.

And Krystle is writing with a close emotional connection to the distant past. The songs that make up Extended Play are songs of experience—the lyrics reflect on a crush from high school, a departed musical hero, and others who live in memory. There is nostalgia in ​EXTENDED PLAY and a forlornness. These songs are filled with references, musical and otherwise, to those who have inspired Krystle over the years, from Les Mis (specifically the song adopted by ACT UP) to Gregory Djanikian, Zach’s poet father, and Audre Lord.

Krystle describes “When I Look Back,” the last song of Extended Play​ as “an apology to my teenage self.” Seventeen years ago she was writing songs about what happened day-of because being young is about immediacy and living in the present tense. Now the songs are about years past because life slows down, and we are allowed the time to “look back.”

But as Krystle sings in “Rising,” “Future lingers while past is present.” She’s writing about the past because we are all our collected histories—or as she puts it in “When I Look Back”: “there’s still something of her that stays.” The future, of course, still lingers, always there waiting for us, for the next move. The album ends with a recording of Audre Lorde’s gravelly voice. She says,

“I’m going on to something else, the shape of which I have no idea. ‘Only thing I know, is it’s going to be quite different. What I leave behind has a life of its own. I’ve said this about poetry… Well in a sense, I’m saying it about the very artifact of who I have been.”

Krystle Warren & The Faculty still have more to come. They have built seventeen years of memories, experiences, recordings, and shows, and with the release of ​Extended Play​, they continue to show a commitment to growing as musicians together, even if apart.

Written by Phil Anderson
______________________________________________________________…

Krystle Warren and 90.1 FM KKFI

Mark first interviewed Krystle Warren for The Tenth Voice, back 2002. Mark waited several hours, during a winter snow storm, at a huge party, where Krystle played with her band including her longtime friend Solomon Dorsey on bass, in a packed, smoke filled apartment near Community Christian Church across the hall from where Solomon lived, to be given a 2 song demo CD, that contained Krystle’s first recorded music, including a song called “Chanel #5.” Krystle has since gone on to be known all over the world, but still maintains contact with her hometown of Kansas City.

Krystle was on WMM on June 29, 2016 as “Guest Producer” to share inspirations for her new record, THREE THE HARDWAY playing early gospel recordings, that crossed over into Jazz from: Pharoah Sanders, Edwin Hawkins, and The Swan Silvertones. Krystle’s critically acclaimed album, Three The Hard Way was #1 on WMM’s 117 Best Recordings of 2017. Wednesday MidDay Medley was the first to play tracks from Krystle’s album, before it was released. Krystle came on the show months before the release, to share music that was the inspiration for the recording. Released on Parlour Door Music, on August 18, 2017 and Produced by Krystle Warren and Ben Kane. Recorded, engineered, and mixed by Ben Kane. Written & performed by Krystle Warren. Mixed at The Garden, Brooklyn. Mastered & cut by Alex DeTurk at Masterdisk. In 2015 in Krystle Warren premiered new songs from this album at the Middle of the Map Fest in a packed room at Californos in Westport and later at The Polsky Theatre for the Performing Arts Series of Johnsons County Community College. For this record Krystle decided to play every instrument and vocals & back up vocals, “playing bass, drums, lap steel, piano, guitar, and vocals directly to analog tape. She and Ben Kane recorded in Villetaneuse, France, a small town on the outskirts of Paris in a vintage 70s era studio that offered just the right, rich sound to suggest the musical foundation for the record, and to do justice to the duo’s carefully balanced arrangements.” On the Wednesday MidDay Medley radio show in 2016 Krystle shared inspirations for this record, early gospel recordings, that crossed over into Jazz from: Pharoah Sanders, Edwin Hawkins, and The Swan Silvertones. // Krystle was on the show on Oct. 16, 2019 with Brad Cox when she was in KC to present LoveSongs with Owen/Cox Dance Group at Oct 19 & 20, 2019 at Polsky Theatre at JCCC.

We talked with Krystle on September 23, 2020 about The Crew EP where Krystle and friends recorded unique versions of four classic songs with the hope of encouraging the rallying cries of the moment: the movement of the people. Warren embarked on the project after her newest album, with her band The Faculty, was stalled due to COVID-19
11:31
Krystle Warren, thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

11:34 – Underwriting

10:36 – Interview with Rachel Yturralde (with Zach Phillips)

Rachel Yturralde joins us to talk about her new collection of short spooky stories for Halloween titled, The Bone Collection: A Small Collection of Short Stories to Keep You Up At Night. Rachel Yturralde-Bock is a writer and yoga teacher. Rachel is a mom living in the midwest with two beautiful teenage kids, a dog, two black cats and a loving partner. She loves to travel and vista Spain. Rachel has been writing stories and playing make believe all her life. Imagination, creativity and spirituality are the hallmarks of her work. The Bone Collection: A Small Collection of Short Stories to Keep You Up At Night is a new hardcover work of fiction with illustrations by Lauren Kyanka, that was published on September 27, 2024.

Rachel Yturralde Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.

The Bone Collection: A Small Collection of Short Stories to Keep You Up At Night

hardcover work of fiction with illustrations by Lauren Kyanka

Rachel Yturralde-Bock is a writer and yoga teacher.

Rachel is a mom living in the midwest with two beautiful teenage kids, a dog, two black cats and a loving partner.

She loves to travel and vista Spain. Rachel has been writing stories and playing make believe all her life. Imagination, creativity and spirituality are the hallmarks of her work.

Rachel Yturralde Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley.

The Bone Collection: A Small Collection of Short Stories to Keep You Up At Night a new hardcover work of fiction with illustrations by Lauren Kyanka, Published on September 27, 2024. More info at: https://www.amazon.com/author/amazon.comrachelyturralde-bock

10:53

6. Lone Stranger – “It’s Nice To Meet Ya!”
   from: “It’s Nice To Meet Ya! / Lone Stranger / October 26, 2022 (Unreleased)
   [Lone Stranger is the musical project of Zachary S. Phillips known for his longtime work in the bands, Gadjits and Architects where he played bass guitar and toured all over the country with his brothers Brandon, and Adam. For the Lone Stranger Zach works on mixing, mastering, and manufacturing his own solo music, playing almost all of the instruments himself, mixing genres of Ska, Reggae and hip hop.]

7. Jessica Harp – “Lonely Anywhere”
   from: A Woman Needs / Warner Records Inc. / March 16, 2010
   [On February 4, 2008, she married The Wreckers’ fiddle player Jason Mowery. She started recording her second solo country album for Warner Bros. Nashville in July 2008 and announced in January 2009 that it would be titled A Woman Needs. Songwriter Jerry Flowers produced the album and co-wrote several of the songs. The lead-off single, “Boy Like Me,” was released to country radio on March 9, 2009. It became her first Top 30 country hit, reaching a peak of No. 30 in June 2009. The album’s second single, the title track, was released to radio on January 19, 2010, and the music video was filmed on November 19, 2009. On March 2, 2010, Harp announced that she would retire as a recording artist to focus on becoming a full-time songwriter. Warner Bros. Records released her second album digitally on March 16, 2010. Over a year and a half later, on October 11, 2011, Harp announced on Twitter that Warner Bros. released her from her contract and that she would record music again, either independently or with a label. Harp’s solo album, A Woman Needs, features Vince Gill and Keith Urban in guest spots Jessica Leigh Harp was born February 3, 1982 and is an American songwriter from Kansas City, Missouri. Jessica Harp is best known for being one half of the Grammy Award Nominated country roots duo The Wreckers with friend Michelle Branch. Harp was focused on music from childhood. While working as a singer and songwriter in Nashville, Harp began singing backup for Branch, and when Branch opted to take a break from her solo career in 2004, joined her in the duo The Wreckers. Harp’s country edge meshed nicely with Branch’s pop approach, and the Wreckers were a fast success with the #1 debut single, Leave the Pieces. A debut album, Stand Still, Look Pretty, appeared in 2006 from Maverick Records, followed by a live set, Way Back Home: Live from New York City, a year later. In 2007 Harp and Branch announced that they were putting the Wreckers on hold and concentrating on solo projects. After taking a step back from recording to focus on songwriting and other pursuits, Harp currently resides in KC with her family. ]

[Jessica Harp plays recordBar 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO on Friday, Nov. 1, 7:00 with Kristin Hamilton & The Heat. Jessica has put together a local band with Marco Pascolini, Kandi Kos, JB Moreland, Kristen Conkright and Matt Brahl.]

11:00 – Station ID

11:00 – Interview with Scott Heidmann and Ken Petti

Scott Heidmann a longtime architect & Art Collector, who has worked on National and International projects including London, Singapore and every major US city. and Ken Petti a fashion advertising veteran with 30 years of experience in New York City working for Fashion Show Production Co. and Calvin Klein.

Together they pursue joy through their process and presentation, and by celebrating others’ talents while benefitting from the human connections and the enjoyment of art in its many forms. They exist together in fascinating synchronicity, both in life and their work collaborations. They are the master minds behind the Heidmann Art Salon which is a series of special art events they create and produce four times a year. The Two conceptualize unique, thematic, exhibitions that go beyond mere art viewing, rather they invite guests in for an experiential evening where art.performance, food, drink and atmosphere all merge.

The fourth event of each year being the fundraising “Santa Clause” with proceeds of art sales and food donations going to Operation Breakthrough.

Scott Heidmann and Ken Petti served as Event Chairs for ArtPop 2024 raising nearly $300,000 for student scholarships to the Kansas City Art Institute. Scott and Ken have been involved with the event since its inception and continue to elevate the party with their creative themes and celebratory ideas.

Scott Heidmann and Ken Petti thanks for being with us on WMM.

Scott Heidmann grew up in Washington, Missouri. He originally when to school at SMU and then transferred to The University of Kansas. Scott has spent over 40 years working as an Interior Designer in Architecture firms. He has worked on National and International projects in multiple cities including London, Singapore and every major US city. Projects included Workspace, Hospitality, Education and Sports. Art has always been a part of his projects as well as personal collecting.

Ken Petti grew up in New Jersey. After High School he attended FIT – Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. After graduating from FIT he spent 309 years in New York working for Fashion Show Production Co., Calvin Klein. Ken also worked for an in house Ad Agency for Gitano Group. Ken was a star I’m the Fashion and marketing world.

In 2012 Scott met Ken through Facebook and they became friends and partners in life. Early on in their relationship Ken encouraged Scott to create HEIDMANN ART SALON.

Together they are the masterminds behind the Heidmann Art Salon which is a series of special art events they create and produce four times a year. The Two conceptualize unique, thematic, exhibitions that go beyond mere art viewing, rather they invite guests in for an experiential evening where art.performance, food, drink and atmosphere all merge.

The fourth event of each year being the fundraising “Santa Clause” with proceeds of art sales and food donations going to Operation Breakthrough.

Scott Heidmann and Ken Petti served as Event Chairs for ArtPop 2024 raising nearly $300,000 for student scholarships to the Kansas City Art Institute. Scott and Ken have been involved with the event since its inception and continue to elevate the party with their creative themes and celebratory ideas.

Scott Heidmann and Ken Petti thanks for being with us on WMM.

11:23

8. Julia Haile – “Heavy Rotation”
   from: “Heavy Rotation” – Single / Julia Haile / September 30, 2022
   [One of two new singles released by Jullia Haile and September 30, 2022. Julia Haile is a singer and songwriter based in Kansas City, MO. Her natural talent and musical education have fueled a career of exciting performances and beautiful music. From leading Neo-Soul band Hi-Lux and international collaborations to solo works, Julia’s goal is create meaningful musical experiences for all. Julia’s work with Hi-Lux included Tim Braun on guitar, Nick Howell on keys, Dan Loftus on bass, (and prior to that Pete Leibert on bass) and Kian Bryne on drums. Hi-Lux is a Modern-Soul band that blends and bends the boundaries between soul, rock n roll, reggae, and funk. This group aims to create music that pays tribute to their myriad of influences (Amy Winehouse, The Meters, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings). but also claims a spotlight of its own in the musical world. Hi-Lux released the singles, “Revolution” and “Get What You Give” on February 28, 2020, through The Record Machine. Hi-Lux released the single. “Don’t Blame Lee” (featuring Lee Scratch Perry) on April 20, 2018. Hi-Lux released the 7” vinyl single, “”Dance With My Baby” b​/​w “Don’t Blame Me” on January 5, 2018 through Sunflower Soul Records. Hi-Lux released their 6-track, self-titled EP, Hi-Lux on January 2, 2018. All 6 songs had previously been released as singles..]The band brings together elements of soul, reggae and funk for a unique and dance inspiring sound. More info at: http://www.juliaHaile.com]

[Julia Haile plays Apocalypse Meow 17 on Saturday, November 2nd at recordBar, 1520 Grand, Blvd. KCMO, Doors at 6:00pm / Show at 7:00pm. Featuring: FlareThaRebel, The Creepy Jingles, Nathan Corsi & My Atomic Daydream.]

11:28 – Underwriting

9. Nathan Corsi and My Atomic Daydream – “State of The Union”
   from: Shangri La / myowndamnrecords / July 8, 2023
   [Debut album from Nathan Corsi’s new rock band featuring Kansas City veterans Chris Meck, Tom Hudson, and Benjamin Hart. Nathan Corsi and My Atomic Daydream released their second single, “Hits You Twice” on September 28, 2022. Nathan Corsi has one of the best voices in Kansas City music. With Steve Tulipana he fronts The Band That Fell To Earth paying tribute to David Bowie in this annual project created by Michelle Bacon. Nathan toured for nearly a decade with his band Not A Planet who released critically acclaimed EP, NAP on December 1, 2011; the album, THE FEW, THE PROUD, THE STRANGE on May 10, 2013; SMOKE BOMBS & CIGARETTES: THE HISTORY OF NOW (EP) on September 9, 2016.] [Nathan Corsi and My Atomic Daydream play recordBar, at 1520 Grand Boulevard, KCMO, on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 7:00 PM for their Record Release Party, w/ The Philistines and Friendly Thieves.]

[Nathan Corsi and My Atomic Daydream play Apocalypse Meow 17 on Saturday, November 2nd at recordBar, 1520 Grand, Blvd. KCMO, Doors at 6:00pm / Show at 7:00pm. Featuring: FlareThaRebel, Julia Haile, The Creepy Jingles More info at: http://www.midwestmusicfoundation.org]

11:33 – Interview with Sondra Freeman

Sondra Freeman is Director of Promotions & Artist Relations for Midwest Music Foundation, a nonprofit created to support music and musicians in Kansas City and the surrounding areas, founded in 2008 by a collective of musicians and music lovers. The Midwest Music Foundation (MMF) unites and empowers the greater KC music community by providing programs and resources to area musicians through outreach, support, education, and health care opportunities. After meeting Executive Director, Rhonda Lyne, while buying raffle tickets at an MMF function, Sondra was immediately interested in the organization’s mission and quickly became an active volunteer. Sondra’s extensive fundraising background and her lifelong love of music made her an immediate asset. Her duties have grown, and she functions as a band liaison by managing booking, promotions and many other aspects of event planning. Sondra has owned and operated Big Mac’s Fireworks South for over 15 years.

Apocalypse Meow 17, is Sat, Nov 2, Doors at 6:00pm / Show at 7:00pm. Featuring: FlareThaRebel, Julia Haile, The Creepy Jingles, Nathan Corsi & My Atomic Daydream. Apocalypse Meow is MMF’s main fundraiser for Abby’s Fund For Musicians’ Health Care, which provides local musicians & music workers with essential health care resources.

Sondra Freeman thanks for being with us again on WMM.

In addition to live music, the RockDocs will be on site to offer flu shots and COVID boosters (provided by the Kansas City Indian Center), screenings, wellness programs, opportunities to discuss health conditions and concerns, and arrange follow-ups. We’ll also have live raffles that feature an assortment of items donated by local businesses, and an online auction running November 1st-22nd, 2024: http://www.32auctions.com/AM17

Apocalypse Meow started in 2008, when musician Abigail Henderson faced daunting financial hurdles after being diagnosed with breast cancer. Friends rallied to her side, holding the first Apocalypse Meow concert to cover her medical expenses. To pay this forward to her community, Abigail co-founded MMF. Since its inception, Apocalypse Meow has become the central fundraising event for Abby’s Fund for Musicians’ Health Care. Abigail passed away in 2013, but we continue the mission to connect musicians with health care in the greater Kansas City area. We have given out health care assistance totaling over $600,000 to Kansas City area musicians since the inception of this fund. We have also provided much needed preventative care services through our health clinic events and partnerships with local providers.

The demand for grants continues to grow each year, MMF needs help to make Apocalypse Meow a huge success to replenish Abby’s Fund. WMMF has given out over $77,000 in Abby’s Fund grants so far this year!

MMF has given out over $95,000 grants from Abby’s Fund for Musicians’ Health Care so far this year. Over $600,000 total since inception of the fund.

*RockDoc (Dr. Allen Greiner) willl be available from 6:00 – 10:00 pm with FREE flu shots, COVID boosters with Gina McClain, RN assisting. Thank you to Justin Nichols of the KC Indian Center for supplying the covid and flu vaccines available at our Apocalypse Meow on Nov. 2nd at the recordBar. Those who receive a vaccine during our event will receive a $25 gift card!

MMF has several Major Sponsors (full list of sponsors on MMF website)
recordBar
Tito’s
The Pairing
Seen Merch
Bridge
Boulevard
Sarpino’s

MMF Thanks all performers, crew, volunteers and MMF Staff and Board that have made this event possible! XO Blackwater (Steve Gardels & Regina) for visuals

Thanks to all the businesses that have made monetary contributions or donated items for our auction & raffles

32.auctions.com/AM17 (Auction runs through Nov 22)

There are lots of great raffle prizes!

RESOURCES AND ASSISTANCE THROUGH ABBY’S FUND

If you or a family member needs healthcare assistance, please apply for an Abby’s Fund grant. This resource is available to active KC area musicians and music personnel. LEARN MORE AND APPLY at: http://www.midwestmusicfoundation.org

Please email Executive Director, Rhonda Lyne, for more information. rhonda@midwestmusicfound.org

Midwest Music Foundation offers the following services:

-Mental Health Grants to assist with counseling and treatment

-Free Dental Screenings at the UMKC School of Dentistry

-Free COVID-19 Tests

-Mammogram Grants

11:41

10. The Creepy Jingles – “Love Like You”
    from: “Love Like You” – Single / High Dive Records / July 14, 2024
    [This is the third of several new singles being released by The Creepy Jingles this year. The band released “Repeat After Me” on April 19, 2024. The band released “When Things Go Wrong” on February 23, 2024. The Creepy Jingles are a Kansas City based, rock and roll band that both honors and defies convention. Led by singer / song-writer Jocelyn Olivia Nixon, a transgender wordsmith who charms with razor wit and dazzles with her lyrical acrobatics. // Song (lyrics/melody/chords) written by Jocelyn Olivia Nixon. Mixed and Recorded by Paul Malinowski and recorded at Massive Sound Studios in Shawnee, Kansas. Mastered by Zack Hames. Jocelyn Nixon on lead vocals & rhythm guitar, Will Van Doorn on lead guitar & backing vocals, Andrew Woody on bass & backing vocals, Nick Robertson on drums & bait. // The Creepy Jingles released their album, TAKE ME AT MY WORDPLAY on March 25, 2022 through High Dive Records. Paired up with lyrics centering on themes of identity, strained relationships, social media madness, meme magic, pandemic paranoia, paid off political pundits, backyard bullies and barking up the wrong tree. Everything and the kitchen sink or swim. No stoner left unturned. The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019. The release was in the top ten of WMM’s 119 Best Recordings of 2019. ] The Creepy Jingles released their Debut EP on High Dive Records on May 3, 2019.]

[The Creepy Jingles play Apocalypse Meow 17 on Saturday, November 2nd at recordBar, 1520 Grand, Blvd. KCMO, Doors at 6:00pm / Show at 7:00pm. Featuring: FlareThaRebel, Julia Haile, Nathan Corsi & My Atomic Daydream. ]

10:44 – More Interview with Sondra Freeman

We are talking with Sondra Freeman about Apocalypse Meow 17, on Saturday, November 2, Doors at 6:00pm / Show at 7:00pm. Featuring: FlareThaRebel, Julia Haile, The Creepy Jingles, Nathan Corsi & My Atomic Daydream. Apocalypse Meow is MMF’s main fundraiser for Abby’s Fund For Musicians’ Health Care, which provides local musicians and music workers with essential health care resources.

Sondra Freeman thanks for being with us again on WMM.

In addition to live music, the RockDocs will be on site to offer flu shots and COVID boosters (provided by the Kansas City Indian Center), screenings, wellness programs, opportunities to discuss health conditions and concerns, and arrange follow-ups. We’ll also have live raffles that feature an assortment of items donated by local businesses, and an online auction running November 1st-22nd, 2024: http://www.32auctions.com/AM17

More info at http://www.midwestmusicfoundation.org

The event features live performances by notable Kansas City-area bands as a donation of their time and talents to their community; local businesses and artisans donate products and services to the event for auction. All monies raised during Apocalypse Meow go directly to Abby’s Fund for Musician’s Health Care and the production costs of Apocalypse Meow. Performances, business donations, and services are purely voluntary.

“Abby believed that music can take you to where you need to be and that it’s important, and the people that do that need to be taken care of.” – Sondra Freeman

Abby’s Fund for Musicians’ Health Care was named for Abigail Henderson (1977-2013).

Death Notice from St. Louis Post Dispatch: Abigail Hope Henderson the Kansas City vocalist who started a nonprofit organization to help musicians pay health-care costs, died on Tuesday, August 27, 2013 of cancer at her home. She was 35. For more than a decade, Abigail was the lead singer of several area bands: Trouble Junction, The Gaslights, Atlantic Fadeout, and Tiny Horse. In 2008 she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She had health insurance, but the cost of the treatments prompted her and husband Christopher Meck, to start the Midwest Music Foundation which raised funds to help area musicians pay health care costs. “Medical bills can throw you into poverty in a week – in one day,” she said. “There’s nothing like standing in your kitchen opening a hospital bill for $63,000.00 in one day and $47,000.00 the next. After a while you don’t want to open them anymore. Who can pay that?”

Apocalypse Meow is the primary event for Abby’s Fund For Musicians’ Health Care — providing area musicians and industry workers with essential health care grants.

Midwest Music Foundation Staff

Rhonda Lyne, Executive Director
Sondra Freeman, Director of Promotions and Artist Relations
Canyon McClung, Production Specialist
Danielle Anderson, Media Manager

Midwest Music Foundation Board

Chris Meck, Founder, Musician and CM2 Audio
Amber Hulet, President
Eric Barton, Treasurer, General Counsel
Julia Haile, Secretary, Education Chair, Musician
Dr. K. Allen Greiner, MD, MPH, Chair of Health + Wellness, University of KS Med Center
Dr. Erin Corriveau, MD, MPH, Public Health Officer, University of Kansas Med Center
Michelle Bacon, Co-Chair Mental Health for Musicians, Diversity Chair, Musician
Molly Gotobed, Insurance Program Research Chair, Kansas Assistance Network, Community Health Council of Wyandotte County
Jerry Jones JD, Director of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion – Health Programs, Movember Foundation
Eddie Moore, Musician
Sonia Hall, President & CEO BioKansas
Skeet Hanks, Marketing Chair Web Administrator

Rhonda Lyne is Executive Director of Midwest Music Foundation. She is a scientist by day and avid supporter of the arts by night. Rhonda has had an active role with the MMF since the inaugural fundraiser, Apocalypse Meow, in 2008. Inspired by MMF founder, Abigail Henderson, Rhonda is dedicated to the mission of the MMF a nonprofit created to support music & musicians in KC and the surrounding areas, founded in 2008 by a collective of musicians & music lovers. Rhonda is instrumental in MMF’s fundraising, volunteer, event coordination, overseeing the health care fund, and day to day activities of the organization.

Sondra Freeman thanks for being with us again on WMM.

Apocalypse Meow 17, is Saturday, November 2, Doors at 6:00pm / Show at 7:00pm. Featuring: FlareThaRebel, Julia Haile, The Creepy Jingles, Nathan Corsi & My Atomic Daydream. Apocalypse Meow is MMF’s main fundraiser for Abby’s Fund For Musicians’ Health Care, which provides local musicians and music workers with essential health care resources.

In addition to live music, the RockDocs will be on site to offer flu shots and COVID boosters (provided by the Kansas City Indian Center), screenings, wellness programs, opportunities to discuss health conditions and concerns, and arrange follow-ups. We’ll also have live raffles that feature an assortment of items donated by local businesses, and an online auction running November 1st-22nd, 2024: http://www.32auctions.com/AM17

More info: midwestmusicfoundation.org

11:54

11. FlareThaRebel – “Playground (feat. The Belief Cycle & Leigh Adams)”
    from: Summer You, Summer Me. / Shafer / October 21, 2022
    [“Rosé All Day” was the lead single from FlareThaRebel’s EP. 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 summer nights, 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 FlareThaRebel 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, FlareThaRebel 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, FlareThaRebel’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. FlareThaRebel & 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. Summer You, Summer Me was in the top 10 of WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022.]

[FlareThaRebel plays Apocalypse Meow 17 on Saturday, November 2, at recordBar, 1520 Grand, Blvd. KCMO, Doors at 6:00pm / Show at 7:00pm. Featuring: Julia Haile, Nathan Corsi & My Atomic Daydream, and The Creepy Jingles.]

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

On The Next Show! On November 6, (the day after), at 10:30 we welcome Katie Gilchrist who returns to the show to give us updates on her year long 1994 Project involving, musical concerts, shows, and staged readings of films from 1994. At 11:00 we talk with Karalyne Winegarner – lead singer songwriter and front woman of the band Flight Attendant. And at 11:30 we talk with Destiny Atkinson and Kate Hall of Afterword Tavern and Shelves.

“Thank you” to ALL OF YOU who donated during our Fall Fund Drive, and our 2 Wednesday MidDay Medley shows and our WMM Fall Facebook Fundraiser, for KKFI 90.1 FM. We received donations from 46 listeners, who gave a total of $3478.00 That is 97% of our ambitious “show goal.” I call that a success! Thank you to all my very special and fabulous co-hosts: Betse Ellis, Joelle St Pierre, Rachio Head, Beth Barden, and guests: Christena Graves, Miguel Caraballo, Daniel Cole, and Paul Seiz, and honorable mention to Marion Merritt with very special thanks and respect to Lincoln Dreher, J Kelly Dougherty, Darryl Oliver, Chad Brothers, Mark Andruss, Valerie Rose Andruss, Kathy Peters and Julie Dahlquist! All the phone room volunteers!

THANK YOU to our incredible KKFI Staff; Director of Development & Communications – J Kelly Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator – Darryl Oliver, Chief Operator – Chad Brothers, KKFI Accounting & Administration – Shaina Littler

This radio station is more than the individual hosts of each individual radio show. Instead it is about a collective spirit of hundreds of hardworking people, unselfishly setting aside ego, to work for the greater good of community building and the gigantic goal of keeping our airwaves free, non-commercial, and open to all! Congratulations and thank you to all programmers & volunteers who went the extra effort to keep our station alive.

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

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Show #1067