WMM Playlist from February 19, 2025

Posted on February 19, 2025 by Mark Manning

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

Wednesday, February 19, 2025

WMM welcomes Les Izmore as Guest Producer

Mark welcomes Les Izmore, who joins us as Guest Producer. Les Izmore is a Africanfurist, a multi-disciplinary artist, a lover of music. Les Izmore is a musician, spoken word artist, producer, director, curator, poet, DJ, writer, percussionist, songwriter, music composer, beat maker, emcee and vocalist. Les Izmore is a creative centered around experimentation and love. His current project is now known as Les Izmore & The GOATS, it is a project that opens a portal to decolonized worlds using the technology of live looping, hand percussion, vocalization, collaboration and improvisation based off lyricism and heartfelt structured vibrations. Les is part of Arquesta Del SolSoul, a Kansas City-based, cosmic music collective, teleporting through indigeneity, decolonization, love and freedom.

Les Izmore will spin tracks from: Santigold, Lady Wray, Combo Chimbita, Adeta Marie, MFR Souls, Canalón de Timbiquí, The Black Creatures, serpentwithfeet with Ambré, & Alex Isley, Kelela, keiyaA, Amaarae, Bikini Kill, Death, Sweeping Promises, Tierra Whack, Gloria Jones, Lilblackkids, Georgia Anne Muldrow & Keith Rice, Los Rakas & Big Klef, AKU, The Roots, Outkast with Cee-Lo, Mach-Hommy, and Teedra Moses.

Les Izmore has shared the stage with such acts as: Kendrick Lamar, Shabazz Palaces, Public Enemy, Seun Kuti and the Egypt 80, Tank and the Bangas, Femi Kuti & The Positive Force ft. Mádé Kuti, KRS-ONE, dead prez, SOUL GLO, Lupe Fiasco, Mobb Deep, Reflection Eternal (Hi-Tek & Talib Kweli), Sadat X, Slick Rick, Snoop Dogg, Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Tef Poe, Hermon Mehari, Joc Max, Deejay Platinum, Emcee Reach, The Roots, Chance the Rapper, Del the Funky Homosapien, Combo Chimbita, Earthgang, Fashawn, Exile, Bahamadia, Georgia Anne Muldrow, Clipping, Mobb Deep, Radkey, Ozomatli, Making Movies, Las Cafeteras, Gio Chamba, Busdriver, Milo, Nocando, Open Mike Eagle (Hellfyre club), and The BUHS.

“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. Santigold – “L.E.S. Artistes”
from: Santigold / Downtown Music / April 29, 2008
[]Santogold is the debut studio album by musician and singer Santigold (who performed as Santogold at the time of the album’s release). The album was recorded within eight weeks in New York City at Schoolhouse and Pitch Black Studios. It was written and produced primarily by Santigold and former Stiffed bandmate John Hill, alongside contributions from other producers, including Diplo, Switch and Disco D, and vocal appearances from Spank Rock and Trouble Andrew. // This album incorporates a variety of musical styles, such as new wave, punk, electro, reggae and dub, with the aim of defying boundaries and genre classification. This genre-defying approach awarded the album with praise from music critics. It earned multiple spots on music publications’ year-end lists of the best albums of the year, as well as on several decade-end lists. The record charted in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, Netherlands, France and Belgium, and spawned the singles “Creator”, “L.E.S. Artistes”, “Lights Out”, and “Say Aha” // Santi White was born September 25, 1976 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to parents Ron White, an advisor to mayor John F. Street and Aruby Odom-White, a psychiatrist. She attended Germantown Friends School in Philadelphia, and later attended college at Wesleyan University, where she double-majored in music and African-American studies. Santi has described herself as “super-social and a connector of people” in her youth, growing up in Philadelphia. // She is known professionally as Santigold (formerly Santogold). She obtained her pseudonym in the 1990s after a friend gave it to her as a nickname. She worked for Epic Records as an A&R representative but left the position to co-write and executive produce How I Do, the singer Res’s debut album. // She was the singer of Philadelphia-based punk rock band Stiffed, which released the EP Sex Sells (2003) and the album Burned Again (2005). Both records were produced by Bad Brains bassist Darryl Jenifer. While in the band, White was offered a solo contract by Martin Heath of London-based independent label Lizard King Records. // Her debut studio album, Santogold (2008), was released by Atlantic Records and met with widespread critical praise for its cross-genre blending of dub, new wave, and hip hop music. Its second single, “L.E.S. Artistes”, peaked within the top 40 of the UK Singles Chart. // Her second album, Master of My Make-Believe (2012), was met with continued positive reception and peaked at number 21 on the Billboard 200. It spawned the single “Disparate Youth”, which entered the Bubbling Under Hot 100 and moderately entered charts in several countries. Her third album, 99¢ (2016), her second mixtape, I Don’t Want: The Gold Fire Sessions (2018), and her fourth album, Spirituals (2022), were each met with continued praise. The latter was described by The Guardian as a “whirlwind album full of feeling and fervour”. // Additionally, Santigold has collaborated with artists including Beastie Boys, Jay-Z, Kanye West, David Byrne, Mark Ronson, Karen O, ASAP Rocky, and Diplo. Her awards include “Best Breakthrough Artist” at the 2008 NME Awards, and the Vanguard Award at 2009 ASCAP Awards.]

Lady Wray – “Under The Sun”
from: Piece of Me Big Crown Records / January 28, 2022
[Lady Wray’s 2022 album Piece Of Me is one of my favorite releases for the year. Incredible vintage, sounding heartfelt R&B/ Soul music. With modernized takes on classic love songs. / Virginia-born singer/songwriter Nicole Wray has everything you’d want in a singer: an infectious Jackson-5-family-member flare, a range like Aretha’s, and a church upbringing that’s brought a pure, healing texture to her voice.]

Combo Chimbita – “Babalawo”
from: IRE / Anti / January 26, 2022
[Continuing their mystical saga, Combo Chimbita roar back onto the global stage with their cathartic new album, IRÉ, channeling the fear, rage and empathy of a world in flames into an urgent spirit of musical dissidence. The album’s evocative title is forged upon double-edged meaning: on one hand embracing the divinely inspired blessings and prosperity foretold by our spiritual elders, and on the other a brazen, propulsive affirmation of revolutionary futures in the making. Afro-Caribbean transcendance, bewildering chants, booming drums and psychedelic distortion lay the rhythmic foundation for IRÉ; a testament to the ever expanding scope of Combo Chimbita’s sonic palette and their modes of resistance in realms both spiritual and terrestrial. // Described by NPR’s Alt.Latino as an “otherworldly presence,” Combo Chimbita is the creative unity of Carolina Oliveros (vocals, guacharaca), Niño Lento es Fuego (guitar), Prince of Queens (bass, synthesizers) and Dilemastronauta (drums), who together transcend common concepts of time and nationality. As self-described Abya-yalistas seeking meaning beyond a Latin American framework, they carry the burning torch of an unbroken, insubmissive people, unshackling their essence from the cruelty of conquest throughout Abya Yala. “Music is a tool of connection across time, territory and generations,” says Prince of Queens, echoing the visual metamorphosis for single “Memoria” and Combo Chimbita’s own decolonial shedding of skin.]

Adeta Marie – “Community Ties”
from: Passionfruit Flowers / Adeta Marie / June 28, 2023
[Adeta Marie is a Kansas City based music maker and vocalist. She started playing out in 2019. She told Voyage KC magazine in September 9, 2021 that “Creating was a way to heal from life trauma and speak gently to myself and my experiences. Music was a way for me to feel and validate my struggle. My very first songs are very somber and talk a lot about sad things. If you follow my songs, they tell a story of how I feel and how much I’ve grown from my loneliest times. It took a while for me to feel comfortable expressing my art freely and openly, but I felt like the burden of judgment was lifted when I did. Ever since then, I’ve loved performing my art as much as I love creating it.” // Adeta Marie is also a licensed esthetician and self-taught MUA. She got her license in 2019, and has worked for Sephora and Lancôme. More info at: https://linktr.ee/AdetaMarie%5D

MFR Souls – “Love You Tonight (feat. DJ Maphorisa, Sha Sha & Kabza De Small)”
from: The Beginning / South Africa – Sony / October 25, 2019
[MFR Souls is a South African amapiano music duo founded in 2012 by Tumelo Nedondwe and Tumelo Mabe, both of whom are DJ and music producers from Katlehong in the East Rand of Johannesburg. They are regarded as being part of the pioneers of the ama piano sound, alongside Kabza de small, Jazzidiciples. Their hit single “Love You Tonight” was commercial success certified platinum in South Africa. // They met in 2009 at an event in Tokoza and eventually formed their group in 2013, Ma-Ero & Force Reloaded and later was named MFR Souls. // In December 2015, their 5 tracks Extended Play Bless The Souls was released. // In 2016 they released ama piano mixtapes. // On October 4, 2019, they released a single “Love You Tonight” featuring Sha Sha, Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa. The song was certified platinum in South Africa. At the 26th ceremony of South African Music Awards “Love You Tonight” was nominated for Best Collaboration and Best Music Video. Their collaborative album Scorpion Kings with Kabza De Small, Virgo Deep and DJ Maphorisa won Best Produced Album of the Year at SAMA 26 awards. On November 8, 2019, their Extended Play The beginning was released. // In early 2020, their single “Amanikiniki” featuring Kamo Mphela and Bontle Smith was released. The song debuted number 3 on RAM charts and was certified platinum with sales of 50 000 units. “Amanikiniki” was nominated for Record of the Year (fan-voted) and Music Video of The Year at 27th South African Music Awards and Song Of the Year at MAMA awards. On August 14, 2020, their second studio album Musical Kings was released. The album features Bontle Smith, Tshego, Zano, J’Something and Manu Worldstar. // On May 14, 2021, they released a single “Abahambayo” featuring Mzulu Kakhulu, Khobzn Kiavalla and DJ T-Man SA. // In October 12, they teased their second studio album Healers Of The Soul, released on November 12, 2021. In November 4, album pre-order were made available. // On April 1, 2022, their EP T-squared was released in South Africa. // In early May 2022, they were featured on Freedom Sounds: From Kwaito to Amapiano documentary by Spotify. // On May 5, 2023, the duo released their long-awaited single, “Bawo” featuring Russell Zuma, Shane907 & Locco MusiQ.]

Canalón de Timbiquí – “Qué Pena”
from: Arrullando / Canalón de Timbiquí / January 30, 2016
[The sweetly exuberant chanting of 5 female voices, the marimba, the drums & guasa percussion surrounding Nidia Góngora, Canalón embody the rich musical mix of African and Latin- American traditions unique to Colombia’s Pacific coast. // Canalon’s music echoes the ancestral sounds of the Afro-Colombian Pacific Coast, recreating the power and rhythm with the chonta marimba, the percussion instrument guasa and the bombs drum. The melodies of the marimba and voice reflect the sounds of the pacific coast, and the lyrics are about the jungles, rivers, miners and all of their surroundings in the town they are from – Timbiqui. Timbiqui, located in the Cauca state on the Pacific Coast, is where the group hails from. The group of female singers are led by Nidia Góngora (long-time Quantic collaborator) and are supported by a band using a range of traditional percussive instruments such as the tambora drum and the xylophone-style marimba with its unique, light sound. // With international interest in this traditional ‘pacifico’ music, Nidia Góngora has worked with producer, band leader, and DJ Quantic for the past five years in collaborations and tours across Europe. In 2012, Sofrito Records included in its compilation record the song LA ZORRA Y EL PEROL, one of Canalón’s classic songs. In the same year, the group made a cover of La Jeanne from renowed and beloved French artist George Brassens. // More info at: https://canalondetimbiqui.wixsite.com.%5D

10:33 – Underwriting

The Black Creatures – “TRUE FRIENDS”
from: “TRUE FRIENDS” – Single / The Black creatures / September 17, 2021
[The Black Creatures followed this single with their last full length record, By Thy Hand / from Center Cut Records on August 12, 2022. By Thy Hand was #1 on WMM’s 120 Best Rercordning of 2022. This new album follows their singles: “Criminal” on June 24, 2022, “Loud For Nothin” on May 27, 2022, and “True Friends” on September 17, 2021. After being signed to Center Cut Records the label remastered and reissued their album WILD ECHOES in 2020 and was named Album Of The Year from The Pitch Magazine. the original 2019 release of WILD ECHOES was #2 in WMM’s 119 Favorite Releases of 2019 (Albums & EPs). The Black Creatures fuse dark-pop hip-hop, soul, jazz, and electronic music with elements from science fiction to tell inter-dimensional stories of love, community, life, culture, history. Xavier & Jade have made an impression in the KC music community with their live shows in clubs, galleries, record stores, and area music festivals. The Black Creatures released their debut single “Mouth 2 Mouth” June 5, 2016. // Jade Green & Xavier Martin of The Black Creatures began working together in 2013. The Black Creatures blur the boundaries of hip-hop, dance, R&B, soul, and EDM, telling stories of real life, and the struggle for equality. Jade’s incredible vocals reveal their background in opera, and their honest lyrics are both personal and political. Jade can interpret soul, jazz, hiphop, and pop. Xavier Martin started music as a violinist, and has transitioned into a co-songwriter, producer, beat-maker, keyboardist, vocalist, engineer, and style maker. // From Center Cut Records Promo Materials: The Black Creatures blend contemporary styles of pop, hip-hop, dance, R&B, EDM and soul with cinematic and storytelling sci-fi/fantasy elements and themes. With the complex and creative approach The Black Creatures take to their art, a diverse audience regularly flocks to their gripping and intensely enchanting performances. // Representing the strange land of Kansas City, Missouri, Jade Green and Xavier began working together around the end of 2013 after meeting on-line talking about cosmetics. After Jade stumbled upon Xavier’s SoundCloud, they asked if they could put their vocals on it, and this led to future collaborations with no more than the intention to dabble. They couldn’t stop and eventually dubbed the project The Black Creatures. // Both Jade & Xavier write and perform vocals, with Xavier at the helm of production and composition. Jade Green has a vocal background in opera and a penchant for theatrics, and both are the foundation of their ever-evolving approach to writing and performing in The Black Creatures. While the instrumentals may set the tone for the show, Jade’s voice captivates the audience from beginning to end. Originally a violinist, Xavier unfurled into a producer and vocalist, maintaining the same air of intrigue and mystery throughout his compositions and performances in The Black Creatures. // After releasing Wild Echoes in the fall of 2020, and receiving Album Of The Year from The Pitch Magazine, high praise came from around the world for the four released singles and accompanying videos. “Wretched (It Goes)” was featured in the NPR Live Sessions “Songs For Change” when The Black Creatures were selected as one of 12 national artists, and included in 90.9 The Bridge’s Top 100 singles along with their song “D’ummm” which was in heavy rotation in the winter. Nuance Magazine wrote, “The Black Creatures take their musical talents and use them in such a way that forces listeners to not only tap their foot to a catchy tune, but pay attention and feel something about what is going on in the world around them. Tackling fascism, police brutality, and the deep-rooted effects of slavery in a rhythmic fashion is one thing. Simultaneously making it a good listen is another. However, The Black Creatures make it happen.” // Mark’s brief review: “Being named “Album of The Year” from The Pitch Kansas City was the recognition this young band deserved, because there is really no other band in Kansas City creating incredibly beautiful and painful protest songs in multi genre styles of beats, vocal styles, textures. The immediate personal and poetic lyrics of Jade Green and tribal, dance floor and soulful beats and melodies of Xavier bring the listener into a multicultural, mixed, gender fluid, soul celebration of life and an honest indictment of the racist, homophobic, and sexist world they are navigating through to survive. Listen carefully to these young music makers, they are wise beyond their years. They sound beautiful and speak the truth to power. They are beautiful. They are The Black Creatures.” Charlotte Street Foundation announced that the recipients of the 2022 Generative Performing Artist Awards are The Black Creatures and Calvin Arsenia Scott. Jade and Xavier completed performances in the world premiere of Christian A. Walker’s “What Came With Spring” for the Owen/Cox Dance Group October 7, 8, and 9 at City Stage Theatre, Union Station, 30 W Pershing Rd, KCMO ]

The Black Creatures Discography
The Black Creatures “Mouth 2 Mouth” – Single, June 5, 2016.
The Black Creatures released their debut album, See No Evil, Dec. 6, 2017.
The Black Creatures “Elements” – Single, February 14, 2018
The Black Creatures “Silver Tears” – Single, June 19, 2018 w/ additional voices from: AniMal (Ana Marcela Maldonado Morales) , Barbara Solomon , Kassidee, Quaranta , Adres Va Cortas
The Black Creatures “Dare” (Gorillaz Cover)” – Single, August 8, 2019
The Black Creature – Wild Echoes – September 30, 2019
The Black Creatures – “Turn” – Single, October 30, 2019
The Black Creatures – “Quartz (Twilight)” – Single, November 13, 2019
The Black Creatures – “SHINE” – Single, December 11, 2019
The Black Creatures- “Ghost Bustin’ Dead Prezidentz” – Single, January 8, 2020
The Black Creatures – “To Whom It May Concern” – Single, January 22, 2020
The Black Creatures – “Arcade Love” – Single, February 5, 2020
The Black Creatures – “Run Up” – Single, February 19, 2020.
The Black Creature – Wild Echoes – September 30, 2019
The Black Creatures – “wretched (it goes)”- Single [Center Cut], July 17, 2020 [remastered]
The Black Creature – Wild Echoes – Album (Remastered] August 28, 2020 [Center Cut]
The Black Creatures – “Negative Zero” – Single/Video [Center Cut]
The Black Creatures – “FRIENDS” – Single/Video [Center Cut]
The Black Creatures – BY THY HAND – album August 12, 2022

serpentwithfeet, Ambré, & Alex Isley – “Fellowship (Remix) ft. Ambré & Alex Isley (feat. Ambré & Alex Isley)”
from: DEACON’S Grove – EP / Secretly Canadian / November 5, 2021
[Jonathan Josiah Wise was born July 9, 1988 and is known as serpentwithfeet, is an R&B singer based in Brooklyn, NYC. Wise signed with the English record label Tri Angle to release his debut EP, Blisters (2016). He entered a joint venture with Secretly Canadian to release his debut studio album, soil (2018), which was met with critical acclaim. His second EP, Apparition (2020), and his second and third albums, Deacon (2021) and Grip (2024), were each met with continued critical praise. // Wise was raised in Baltimore, Maryland. He grew up in a religious family; his father owned a Christian bookstore and his mother was a choir director. Wise joined the church choir as a child and grew up with classical and gospel music as a primary influence. // When he was 11 years old his mother asked him if he wanted to audition for the Maryland State Boychoir and, ignoring his refusal, she signed him up anyway and he ended up loving it. This was his introduction to classical vocal music. He realized from this experience that there was a lack of diversity in the choir and there was “not much room for the black voice.” // He attended high school at Baltimore City College, a school for gifted and talented students that was known for their internationally competitive choir. At the age of 14, he competed in choir competitions with his school choir in Europe and won trophies. He said in an interview with Loud and Quiet: “It was all black kids, but our repertoire was predominantly classical. And that blew my mind.” After this, Wise decided that he wanted to become a world-class performer and he started taking vocal lessons to become a classically trained opera singer. // He later moved to Philadelphia, where he attended the University of the Arts. Although Wise was initially interested in becoming a classical opera singer, he was rejected from conservatories he applied to. // After leaving the University of the Arts, Wise spent time in Paris and in Philadelphia’s neo-soul scene. However, his voice was seen as closer in tone to opera than to his peers in neo-soul. Wise then moved to New York, where he released his first single “Curiosity of Other Men” in 2014. // The song led to Wise’s eventual signing with Tri Angle in 2015 and the release of Wise’s debut EP, Blisters, in 2016. The EP featured production from the Haxan Cloak, who has worked with artists including Björk and the Body. Blisters debuted to extremely positive reviews from critics. // Wise began work on his debut studio album Soil in 2017 with producers including Clams Casino, Katie Gately, and Adele collaborator Paul Epworth. The album was released on June 8, 2018, to positive reviews from critics.AllMusic observed that serpentwithfeet brought avant-garde elements into his usual mix of R&B, gospel and classical sounds to create a sense of aching sadness. // In 2017, Wise went on tour with the band Grizzly Bear as their opener. On the Brockhampton album Iridescence (2018), Serpent-withfeet features on the song “Tonya”, which was first performed live on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He appeared on a remix of Björk’s “Blissing Me” (2017), and performed in concert with Björk on her 2019 Cornucopia tour. In 2019, he also served as the opening act in selected dates of Rosalía’s El Mal Querer Tour. // On June 26, 2019, he released a song “Receipts”, which featured Ty Dolla Sign. In 2020, Wise was featured in a track titled “Start” in Ellie Goulding’s fourth studio album Brightest Blue, and collaborated with Ty Dolla Sign again by singing background vocals and writing on Ty Dolla Sign’s song “Ego Death”, a collaborative track with Kanye West, FKA Twigs, and Skrillex, and additionally appeared on an interlude on Ty Dolla Sign’s 2020 album, Featuring Ty Dolla Sign. // He also announced his upcoming EP Apparition, via Secretly Canadian. Apparition was released on April 29, 2020. Made up of three songs, it includes the single “A Comma”, “This Hill”, and “Psychic”. // On January 8, 2021, he was featured in Virgil Abloh’s single titled “Delicate Limbs”. // In January 2021, Serpentwithfeet announced his second studio album Deacon, and release the lead single “Fellowship”, co-produced with Sampha and Lil Silva. The album released on March 26. In August 2022, Serpentwithfeet released “On Air”, a collaboration with Moby, released on the Always Centered at Night label. On September 30, 2022, he was featured on “Fungal City”, one of the songs on Björk’s album Fossora, marking their second collaboration. //Wise is gay and from a young age used gospel music to express his sexuality.]

Kelela – “LMK”
from: Take Me Apart / Warp Records / October 6, 2017
[Kelela Mizanekristos (Amharic: ከለላ ሚዛነክርስቶስ, käläla mizanäkərəsətosə, [kələla mizanəkrɨstos]) was born June 4, 1983. She is an American singer. She made her debut in the music industry with the release of her 2013 mixtape Cut 4 Me. In 2015, she released Hallucinogen, an EP which deals with the beginning, middle, and end of a relationship in reverse chronological order. Her debut studio album, Take Me Apart, was released in 2017 to critical acclaim. After a nearly 5-year hiatus, Kelela released her second album, Raven, in February of 2023. // A second-generation Ethiopian American and an only child, Mizanekristos was born in Washington, D.C., on June 4, 1983. Growing up in Gaithersburg, Maryland, she learned to play the violin in fourth grade and sang in her school’s choir. In 2001, she graduated from Magruder High School. After transferring from Montgomery College to the American University, Mizanekristos began singing jazz standards at cafés. In 2008, she joined an indie band called Dizzy Spells and sang progressive metal after meeting Tosin Abasi, whom she later dated. In 2010, she moved to Los Angeles, where she currently lives, in addition to London. // In November 2012, Mizanekristos began work on her debut mixtape with already two recorded songs. She later quit her job as a telemarketer to fully pursue her career as a musician. Having moved to Los Angeles, Mizanekristos connected with Teengirl Fantasy and contributed to the group’s 2013 album Tracer on the song “EFX”, which led her to meet Prince William from the label Fade to Mind. He introduced her to the sound of the record label and its sister imprint from London, Night Slugs. In May 2013, she appeared on Kingdom’s “Bank Head”, and five months later released her mixtape Cut 4 Me for free. Harriet Gisbone of The Guardian described the mixtape as “an experiment for the production team, the first time the production crew had used vocals on their club tracks.” Her track “Go All Night” was included on Saint Heron, a multi-artist compilation album released by Solange Knowles. The mixtape was heavily influenced by grime music, a popular electronic genre based in the UK, and helped revive the subgenre known as rhythm & grime. // In December 2013, DJ Kitty Cash released her Love the Free mixtape, which featured her song “The High”. Mizanekristos later released the track herself on February 4, 2014, on her SoundCloud.She also featured on Bok Bok’s song “Melba’s Call”, which was released on March 5. On March 3, 2015, Mizanekristos announced the release of her first EP, Hallucinogen, alongside the release of the lead single, “A Message”, and its accompanying music video. The second single, “Rewind”, was released on September 2. The EP covers the beginning, middle, and end of a relationship in reverse chronological order, and includes the previously shared “The High”. // In 2016, Mizanekristos was featured on “A Breath Away” from Clams Casino’s 32 Levels, “From the Ground” from Danny Brown’s Atrocity Exhibition, and “Scales” from Solange’s A Seat at the Table. In February 2017, she took part in Red Bull Sound Select’s 3 Days in Miami. Later that year, she was featured on the track “Submission” alongside rapper Danny Brown and provided additional vocals on the track “Busted and Blue” from Gorillaz’s album Humanz. // On July 14, 2017, Mizanekristos announced her debut studio album, Take Me Apart. It was made available for pre-order on August 1 alongside the release of the lead single, “LMK”. Three more singles preceded the album, “Frontline”, “Waitin” and “Blue Light”, before it was released on October 6, 2017. The album received widespread acclaim from music critics and featured on various year-end lists. It was also included in the 2018 edition of the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. The music critic Craig Jenkins noted heavy electronic instrumentation on the album with “deconstructed dubstep wubs in ‘Blue Light’ and used the Roland synth that gave ‘Jupiter’ its name—an instrument famous for its blaring leads—to play sultry chiptune instead.” // On June 13, 2018, Mizanekristos was featured on the Girl Unit remix of the song “WYWD”, which served as the lead single from his upcoming album, Song Feel. The two have previously worked together on Cut 4 Me’s “Floor Show” and Hallucinogen’s “Rewind”. // On September 12, 2018, Mizanekristos announced Take Me a_Part, the Remixes, a remix album consisting of remixes from her debut album, and shared a remix for “LMK” featuring Princess Nokia, Junglepussy, Cupcakke and Ms. Boogie. The album features contributions from Kaytranada, Rare Essence, Serpentwithfeet and others. On September 26, Mizanekristos shared Kaytranada’s “Waitin” remix as the second single from the album. The album was released on October 5, 2018, making it a year since the release of Take Me Apart. // On September 13, 2022, Mizanekristos released “Washed Away”, her first single in five years along with a music video. On November 15, 2022, Mizanekristos announced her second studio album, Raven, would be released in early 2023. “Happy Ending”, “On the Run”, “Contact”, and “Enough for Love” were also released as singles prior to the release of the album. // On February 10, 2023, Raven was released. She performed “Enough for Love” on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon the same day. // Raven includes collaborators such as Asmara from Fade to Mind’s NGUZUNGUZU, Philadelphia-based DJ and producer LSDXOXO, German ambient duo OCA, and Toronto DJ BAMBII. The album showcases Black futurist art and electronic music sharing inspiration with Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, and Sun Ra to Janelle Monáe, Solange, Beyoncé, Drexciya and Aaliyah. // On November 10, 2023, Mizanekristos was featured on PinkPantheress’ debut album, Heaven Knows, on the song “Bury Me”. // On December 6, 2023, Mizanekristos announced the release of her second remix album Rave:N, the Remixes, a compilation of remixes from her album Raven released earlier that year. The album was released on February 9, 2024. “Contact (Karen Nyame KG Remix)”, “Closure (Flexulant x BAMBII Remix feat. RahRah Gabor & Brazy)”, “Happy Ending (A.G. Remix)”, and “Holier (JD. Reid Remix) [feat. Shygirl]” were singles leading up to the release of Rave:N, the Remixes. A music video was released for “Closure (Flexulant x BAMBII Remix feat. RahRah Gabor & Brazy)” along with vignettes for the other singles. // Kelela openly identifies as queer. In 2020, the artist made a reading primer that contained essays and literature, podcasts and videos, and documentaries as reference material for her friends, family and business partners. Resources included Reader on Misogynoir by Kandis Williams, The will to change by bell hooks and Algorithms of Oppression by Safiya Umoja Noble; the Seeing White podcast and IGTV videos from Sonya Renee Taylor about Black labour called Are you stealing from Black folks? and More on Stealing from Black People: Right Relationship Beyond Capitalism; and The Last Angel of History (1996), which features interviews from the late Octavia E Butler and Greg Tate. The material inspired similar primers created and shared during the George Floyd protests and uprisings in 2020.]

KeiyaA – “Do Yourself a Favor”
from: Forever, Ya Girl / Forever Recordings / March 27, 2020
[This album was part of WMM’s 120 Best recordings of 2020. The debut album from KeiyaA originally from Chicago, now based in NYC. Written and produced by keiyaA, featuring additional production from dj blackpower & dj cowriiie. Mixed & mastered by BSTFRND. // Chakeiya Camille Richmond was born July 28, 1992. She is known professionally as Keiyaa (stylized as KeiyaA), is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and a record producer. She independently released her debut album Forever, Ya Girl in 2020. // Chakeiya Camille Richmond was born and raised in Chicago on the city’s south side. During childhood she sang in the Chicago Children’s Choir until switching to the alto saxophone in seventh grade. She cited soul artists including Chaka Khan, Patrice Rushen, jazz musicians like John Coltrane and Miles Davis and R&B groups such as SWV as early musical influences. She also finds inspiration in goth and post-punk/alternative rock artists like Nirvana and Siouxsie and the Banshees. // Richmond attended University of Illinois at Chicago and Columbia College to study jazz and play alto sax before leaving due to disillusionment with the program’s hierarchical nature, as well difficulty balancing school with working full-time. Shortly after she decided to pursue music professionally. // While still playing and performing on alto sax, she collaborated with Chicago musicians including Noname and Vic Mensa. She decided to switch her focus to solo work producing and singing R&B and electronic music. Perform-ing under the name Keiya, she released her debut EP, WORK, in July 2015. It was described as “emotional, sleepy, and yet strikingly optimistic” by These Days magazine. Shortly after its release she moved to New York. She added an additional “A” to her name (KeiyaA) in order to differentiate herself from other performers on streaming sites. // KeiyaA’s debut album Forever, Ya Girl was released in March 2020 and self-produced under her personal label Forever Recordings. It was reviewed by Olivia Ovendon for KEXP as featuring “powerful mantra-esque lyrics, and woozy, heady, immersive beats in captivating fashion.” Esquire described the sound as “downcast grime and smooth R&B.” Pitchfork writer Clare Lobenfeld rated the album an 8.2/10 and praised its “resolute realness that can only happen outside the major label gaze.” Forever, Ya Girl was named to Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and The Guardian’s “Best Albums of 2020” lists. // She performed an NPR Tiny Desk concert at her home on February 11, 2021. // Keiyaa resides in Brooklyn.]

Amaarae – “Sex, Violence, Suicide”
from: Fountain Baby / Golden Angel LLC – Interscope / June 9, 2023
[Ama Serwah Genfi was born July 4, 1994. She is formerly known as Petrah and currently known as Amaarae, an American-Ghanaian singer & songwriter. She is known for her fusion of pop, R&B, afrobeats, and alté, as well as her fluid representation of gender and sexuality. After collaborating with local artists and putting out a few singles, she released her debut EP, Passionfruit Summers, in 2017. // In 2020, Amaarae released her debut album The Angel You Don’t Know to critical acclaim. The song “Sad Girlz Luv Money” featuring Moliy gained popularity on TikTok. In 2021 the song was remixed with a feature from Kali Uchis and charted globally. Pitchfork labeled the album “Best New Music” and named it the 19th best album of 2020. // On June 9, 2023, she released her highly anticipated second album Fountain Baby to rave reviews. // Amaarae was born in the Bronx, New York to Ama Bawuah and Kwadwo Boateng Genfi and was raised between Atlanta, United States and Accra, Ghana. She is the eldest of two children. Amaarae wrote her first song at the age of 13. During her teenage years, she enjoyed watching music videos and said that one of her most vivid memories was watching the music video for the Kelis song “Young, Fresh n’ New”. She recalls Kelis’ unique expression being an inspiration for her. // During high school, she started making mixtapes. By the age of 17, she took up an internship at a music studio. At a tertiary institution, she undertook voice training and honed her songwrit-ing skills while studying English literature. She returned to Ghana in June 2017. // Amaarae released her debut project Passionfruit Summers in 2017. The album features the song “Fluid”, which was complemented by a music video. // Amaarae was named one of Apple Music Africa’s Favourite New Artists in April 2018 and later that year became an Apple Music Beats 1 featured artist[16] for her debut project Passionfruit Summers which she released through her independent record label, Golden Child LLC on November 30, 2017. In Nov. 2018 she performed with Teni, BOJ and Odunsi (The Engine) at ART X Lagos, an art fair in Lagos, Nigeria. // Amaarae has also been acknowledged for her style and fashion sense. In 2018, she was featured in Vogue online in an article on four women across the globe with buzz haircuts and was mentioned as one of Vogue online’s Top 100 Style Influencers of 2018. She was nominated as Artist of the Year at the Glitz Style Awards in Ghana. She has also patronized Ghanaian fashion brand Free The Youth. On March 23, 2019, Amaarae was chosen to perform at the first Boiler Room event in Accra alongside La Meme Gang (A Collective comprising Nxwrth, RJZ, KwakuBS, Darkovibes, Kiddblack and $pacely) and rapper Kwesi Arthur. // Amaarae has since collaborated with Stonebwoy, Kojey Radical, M3NSA, Santi, Blaqbonez, Buju, Odunsi, B4bonah. In 2019, she collaborated with the Nigerian singer-songwriter Wande Coal. // On Nov. 12, 2020, Amaarae released her debut studio album, The Angel You Don’t Know. Owen Myers of Pitchfork wrote that it “crackles with innovation, a pacesetter at a time when industry bigwigs are waking up to the long-held truth that Africa is setting the global tempo for pop music.” // In May 2022, Amaarae, with Black Sherif, Stonebwoy and Smallgod met Kendrick Lamar when he visited Ghana and held a album listening party in Accra for his album, Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers. // On June 9, 2023, she released her 2nd album Fountain Baby. The release also came with the news that she’d become the first Ghanaian to appear on NPR Tiny Desk.]

11:00 – Station ID

Bikini Kill – “Rebel Girl”
from: The Singles / Bikini Kill Records / June 23, 1998
[Bikini Kill is an American punk rock band formed in Olympia, Washington, in October 1990. The group originally consisted of singer and songwriter Kathleen Hanna, guitarist Billy Karren, bassist Kathi Wilcox, and drummer Tobi Vail. // The band pioneered the riot grrrl movement, with feminist lyrics and fiery performances. Their music is characteristically abrasive and hardcore-influenced. // After two full-length albums, several EPs and two compilations, they disbanded in 1997. The band reunited for tours in 2019 and 2022, with Erica Dawn Lyle on guitar in place of Karren. // Bikini Kill formed in Olympia, Washington, in October 1990, by Kathleen Hanna (vocals), Billy Karren (guitar), Kathi Wilcox (bass), and Tobi Vail (drums). Hanna, Vail, and Wilcox met while attending The Evergreen State College in Washington. Hanna also published a fanzine called Bikini Kill for their first tours in 1991. The band wrote songs together and encouraged a female-centric environment at their shows, urging women to come to the front of the stage and handing out lyric sheets to them. Hanna would also dive into the crowd to personally remove male hecklers. Such male concertgoers would often verbally and physically assault Hanna during shows when the tickets were still inexpensive and easily procured. However, the band’s reach included large male audiences as well as young women. // Fellow riot grrrl musician Lois Maffeo originally adopted Bikini Kill as a band name, inspired by the 1967 B-movie The Million Eyes of Sumuru. She and her friend Margaret Doherty used the name for a one-off performance in the late 1980s where they donned faux fur punk cave girl costumes. Vail liked the name and appropriated it after Maffeo settled on the band name Cradle Robbers. // After an independent demo cassette, Revolution Girl Style Now, Bikini Kill released the Bikini Kill EP on the indie label Kill Rock Stars. Produced by Ian MacKaye of Minor Threat and Fugazi, the released help establish the band’s audience. The band’s debut album, Pussy Whipped, was released in September 1993. Bikini Kill toured in London, England to begin working with Huggy Bear, releasing a split album, Our Troubled Youth / Yeah Yeah Yeah Yeah, and touring the UK. The tour was the subject of a documentary film by Lucy Thane titled It Changed My Life: Bikini Kill in the U.K. Upon their return to the United States, the band began working with Joan Jett of the Runaways, whose music Hanna described as an early example of the Riot Grrrl aesthetic. Jett produced the single “New Radio”/”Rebel Girl” for the band, and Hanna co-wrote several songs on Jett’s Pure and Simple album. // By the following year, Riot Grrrl was receiving constant attention in the media, and Bikini Kill were increasingly referred to as pioneers of the movement. Hanna called for a “media blackout” amongst Riot Grrrls, as they felt the band and the movement were being misrepresented by the media. The pioneer reputation endures but, as Hanna recalls, “[Bikini Kill was] very vilified during the ’90s by so many people, and hated by so many people, and I think that that’s been kind of written out of the history. People were throwing chains at our heads – people hated us – and it was really, really hard to be in that band.” // The band’s final album, Reject All American, was released in 1996. After the band’s breakup in 1997, a compilation of singles recorded between 1993 and 1995 was released in 1998 under the name The Singles. // During the summer of 1992, Karren, Wilcox, and Vail, along with Molly Neuman of Bratmobile, formed The Frumpies, touring as late as the early 2000s along with a similar Italian punk rock band Dada Swing. // Vail, notorious for her numerous side projects and being in several bands at a time, later resurfaced in a band called Spider and the Webs, and played with the Old Haunts until the band broke up in 2009. Kathi Wilcox played in the Casual Dots, who released albums in 2004 and 2022, and Billy Karren played in Ghost Mom. Hanna first contributed to an LP called Real Fiction as a member of the Fakes, and then turned to more dance-based new wave music (with similar feminist lyrical themes) on her solo debut, Julie Ruin. She then became a member of the political new wave outfit Le Tigre. After Le Tigre broke up, Hanna became the front woman of a band named after her solo project, The Julie Ruin, for which Wilcox plays bass. // In February 2016, a pro-Hillary Clinton clip utilizing the Bikini Kill song “Rebel Girl” began to go viral, but was taken down by Vail (who supported Bernie Sanders in the primary). // In 2017, Kathleen Hanna, Kathi Wilcox and Tobi Vail reunited to play one song at a book-release concert for Jenn Pelly’s book about the Raincoats. On January 15, 2019, Bikini Kill announced four U.S. shows, in New York and Los Angeles. The lineup for these shows included Hanna, Wilcox, Tobi Vail and touring guitarist Erica Dawn Lyle, who replaced Billy Karren in the lineup. The first show was April 25 at the Hollywood Palladium with Alice Bag as opener. In June the band played two European dates, in London at Brixton Academy, supported by Big Joanie, and with the Tuts and Child’s Pose opening. On September 15, they headlined the third day of the Riot Fest event in Chicago. /// On November 6, 2019, Bikini Kill announced a 13-date North American Tour for 2020, beginning in Olympia, Washington. The lineup for these shows was the same for the previous dates in 2019, and was scheduled to start March 13, 2020 at Olympia’s Capitol Theater. The remainder of the West Coast tour included shows in Victoria, B.C., where they were to be supported by Mecca Normal, and in Portland supported by the Lithics. The tour also included some European dates in June & August, including Oslo’s Øya Festival. The tour was rescheduled to 2022 in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. // In Oct. 2022 the band announced an Australian tour for March 2023, their first Australian shows in 26 years, touring to Hobart, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, the Golden Plains Festival in country Victoria, Perth and at the Sydney Opera House. Hanna, Wilcox and Vail were joined by touring guitarist Sara Landeau, who played with both Hanna and Wilcox in The Julie Ruin. Vail also fell ill for part of the tour, leaving the band’s Australian drum tech Lauren Hammel (also of Tropical Fuck Storm) to fill in on drums for the Victorian shows. // Early in 2020, in an interview with Pitchfork, Hanna stated that the band had no plans at the time to create new material. // Current members: Kathleen Hanna – lead vocals, bass, Tobi Vail – drums, occasional lead vocals; and Kathi Wilcox – bass guitar, backing vocals, guitar, occasional drums.]

Death – “Politicians In My Eyes”
from: …For The Whole World To See / Drag City Records / February 17, 2009
[…For the Whole World to See is a studio album by the Detroit band Death, released in 2009 and consisting of various demos originally recorded in the mid 1970s. // In 1975 the band entered a studio to record a 12-song album. After refusing to change their group’s name, Death was turned away by Clive Davis of Columbia Records. Only seven songs were completed and the album was never released. The surviving songs were released as …For the Whole World to See in 2009 by Drag City. // Just prior to and right after the record’s release, the songs on …For the Whole World to See were performed live by Rough Francis, a band formed by the three sons of Death’s original bassist. With the record’s critical acclaim and praise from many other musicians, the two surviving members of Death reformed the band with a new guitarist to promote the record themselves. // Death is an American musical group formed in Detroit, Michigan, in 1971 by brothers Bobby (bass, vocals), David (March 19, 1952 – October 9, 2000) (guitar), and Dannis Hackney (drums, percussion). // The trio initially started as a funk group but quickly switched their style to rock after seeing concerts by the Who and Alice Cooper. Music critic Peter Margasak retrospectively wrote that David “pushed the group in a hard-rock direction that presaged punk, and while this certainly didn’t help them find a following in the mid-70s, today it makes them look like visionaries” – David himself having been called “the visionary of the group”. Publications such as Gawker have named them as one of the first punk rock bands. The band broke up in 1977, but unexpected interest in their music resulted in independent record label Drag City releasing their unreleased recordings from 1975 in 2009, and the band reforming. // In 1964, the three young Hackney brothers (David, Bobby and Dannis) watched the Beatles’ first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show with their father. The following day, David found a discarded guitar in an alley and used it to start learning to play. Brothers Bobby and Dannis soon followed suit and they began playing music together. Later, the young trio purchased the best instruments that they could afford with the money that their mother won in a car accident settlement. // The brothers practiced and recorded early demos in a room in the family home and performed their earliest gigs from their garage. Forming in 1971 and originally calling themselves Rock Fire Funk Express, guitarist David convinced his brothers to change the band’s name to Death in 1973 after their father died in an accident. David wanted to change the meaning of the word: “His concept was spinning death from the negative to the positive. It was a hard sell”, Bobby Hackney recalled in 2010. The name distinguished them from other all-black bands; their musical style, an innovation on an already evident musical approach in Detroit, further demarcated Death, “no doubt” the first all-black punk band. // On February 18, 1975, Death recorded seven songs written by David and Bobby at Detroit’s United Sound Studios with engineer Jim Vitti. According to the Hackney family, Columbia Records president Clive Davis funded the recording sessions but implored the band to change its name to something more commercially palatable. When the Hackneys refused, Davis ceased his support. Bobby and Dannis were tentative about this decision, ultimately prioritizing the brotherly relationship. The band only recorded seven songs instead of the planned dozen. The following year they self-released a single taken from these sessions on their label Tryangle Records. The single “Politicians in My Eyes” b/w “Keep On Knocking” saw a run of only 500 copies. // The Hackney brothers ended the band in 1977. The brothers then moved to Burlington, Vermont, and released two albums of gospel rock as The 4th Movement in the early 1980s. David moved back to Detroit in 1982 and died of lung cancer in 2000. Bobby & Dannis still reside in Vermont and lead the reggae band Lambsbread. Dannis is currently the drummer for the Vermont-based rock/funk band The Aerolites. // Copies of the “Politicians in My Eyes” 7″, and the story of Death continued to circulate in collector’s circles, with some copies selling for $800 due to their extreme rarity; one source of them was Don Schwenk, a friend of the Hackneys who was originally commissioned to create the album art for the upcoming LP, and was given a box of the singles in exchange. MP3s of the two songs from the single eventually found their way to Chunklet in 2008; around this time Bobby Hackney’s son Julian moved to California and heard the Death songs after a recommendation of a roommate and immediately recognized his father’s voice. Once the news of the discovery and the story of Death began to spread, it eventually reached Drag City Records, who contacted the Hackneys about the possible release of the album, who provided the label with the original master tape: In 2009, Drag City released all seven Death songs from their 1975 United Sound sessions on CD and LP under the title …For the Whole World to See. // In the meantime, the sons of Bobby Hackney (Julian, Urian, & Bobby Jr.), wanting to get the word out more, started a band called Rough Francis (named after a nickname occasionally used by their uncle David), covering the songs of Death after discovering the old recordings online. A March 2009 article in The New York Times by Mike Rubin, covering one of Rough Francis’ live shows and the history of Death introduced the band to an even wider audience. The popularity eventually reached Mickey Leigh, who invited both bands to play Joey Ramone’s birthday party. In September 2009, a reformed Death played three shows with original members Bobby and Dannis Hackney, with Lambsbread guitarist Bobbie Duncan taking the place of the late David Hackney. During a 2010 performance at the Boomslang Festival in Lexington, Kentucky, the band announced that Drag City would release a new album with demos and rough cuts that predate the 1975 sessions. The album Spiritual • Mental • Physical was released in January 2011. In 2014, Death released their third studio album III, and in 2015 their most recent record, entitled N.E.W. was released. // David was integral to the band’s style, that of mysticism and “eccentric spirituality”. // Members: Bobby Hackney, Sr. on vocals, bass (1964–1977, 2009–present); Dannis Hackney on drums (1964–1977, 2009–present); Julian Hackney on guitar (2023–present); Urian Hackney on guitar (2023–present). Past members: David Hackney on guitars (1964–1977, died 2000) and Bobbie Duncan – on guitars (2009–2023).]

Sweeping Promises – “Cross Me Out”
from: Hunger for a Way Out / Feel It Records / August 14, 2020
[“For more than a half century, underground music revolutionaries have taken a whack at the mundane mainstream like a piñata. England punks spat “NO FUTURE” at germ-free adolescents. Ohio new wavers devolutionized mankind with whips. Athens art school students chomped at hero worship. MetroCard-carrying riot grrrls rebirthed the bomp with a gasoline gut. In 2020, Sweeping Promises read our pandemic minds with Hunger for a Way Out. In 2023, they return with a new message: Good Living Is Coming For You. At first glance, this nouveau wave slogan offers hope wrapped around relief. At first listen, we realize this may actually be a warning. Darker still, a threat. // A band famous for their unfussy, monolithic anthems, Sweeping Promises elegantly ravage us again with another future classic. They return as a fist of velvet rose petals roaring inside a compact wrecking ball. Gone is the Boston brutalist ambience of their subterranean concrete laboratory and the revelatory single mic recording technique. In its place, a retired and resplendent nude painting studio in Lawrence, Kansas, bathed in light with high ceilings and hardwood floors. Guided once again by their surrounding architecture, a reverb-rich space remains the defining element at the heart of their highly stylized sound. A watery ghost from the golden age of art-punk now wields sharper knives and more microphones. // If the mood of HFAWO was hungry, GLICFY is RAVENOUS. In 2023, appetite is addressed in new ways: Power struggles are aired in “Eraser,” restraints are broken in “You Shatter,” anguished exclamations sting in “Good Living Is Coming for You.” The taboo subject of aging is (s)heroically dragged out into the open. Every line is delivered with such joyous, soaring layers that each punch lands like a chef’s kiss. // Sweeping Promises are Lira Mondal and Caufield Schnug. A chance meeting in Arkansas led to a decade of playing in an eclectic assortment of projects together. Their relentless practice made perfect. Bass playing Lira is an emotive bolt of thunderous energy with the iconic blast of a girl group rolled into one robust throat. Caufield is an intentional guitar player and drummer. No note or hit is extraneous. Together they are meticulous sound engineers, using space as a key ingredient to their distinct sound. Controlling every aspect of their craft, from the first note they write together, all the way through to the final mastering process, each record is an unspoiled fingerprint unique to their dynamic chemistry. // Written before the pandemic, Hunger for a Way Out was released on Feel It Records in the summer of 2020. These songs drip with the anxious urgency of a commanding live performance yet their gauzy production transports us like the fading memory of a favorite song. This distorted sense of time resonated with thousands of quarantined listeners who turned the album into a life-saving floatation device and most beloved album of the year. This is when Feel It Records (North America) and Sub Pop (everywhere else) joined forces to divide/unite and conquer; beginning with the 2021 single “Pain Without a Touch” and now carrying through to Good Living Is Coming For You. // The pandemic went on to trigger an absurd chain of events for Sweeping Promises. Under financial strain, Mondal and Schnug uprooted their lives. They surrendered their studio in Cambridge to take refuge with family in Texas. They completed over 50 demos between their Austin bathroom and a Marfa abode, but feeling unsatisfied, they sought another fresh start. When a disused church in Ohio proved too difficult to rehab, they ultimately found lasting inspiration in Kansas. With their home and studio all under one roof, life is music and music is life. //Good Living Is Coming For You ultimately reflects being thrust into a severely unpredictable world. A capsized boat isn’t entirely bad. In fact, it can be the necessary push toward finding solid ground.” -Tracy Wilson (Courtesy Desk). Sweeping Promises played Outer Reaches Fest, on Sat, October 14 at recordBar, On the Les BonsBons Electrique stage w/, Keo & Them, Static Phantoms.]

Tierra Whack – “SHOWER SONG”
from: WORLD WIDE WHACK / Interscope Records / March 15, 2024
[Tierra Helena Whack was born August 11, 1995. She is an American rapper and singer. She originally performed as “Dizzle Dizz” as a teenager but reverted to her birth name in 2017. Her debut mixtape, Whack World, was released in May 2018 and received widespread critical acclaim. Her song “Mumbo Jumbo” was nominated at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards for Best Music Video. Whack has since collaborated with Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, Tyler, the Creator, Chief Keef, and Melanie Martinez. // Whack was born in 1995 and grew up living with two younger siblings and their mother in North Philadelphia. In a 2018 interview with The Fader, Whack mentioned that she and her father are estranged. She was an introverted child who wrote to help herself deal with insecurities. As a child, Whack loved the author Dr. Seuss to the extent that she would rhyme the sentences together in her homework assignments. // Whack pinpointed the exact moment when her love for rhyming began. She had to rhyme for a homework assignment for class and after receiving positive feedback, she continued with it. She later asked her mother for composition books to fill with rhymes and lyrics before she eventually started recording herself. // Whack attended The Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush in Philadelphia for three years before finishing high school in Atlanta. At Benjamin Rush, she was a vocal major and was one of the few black students in a predominantly white graduating class. With some difficulty, she and her friends persuaded their principal to let them perform the finale from Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit for the school vocal showcase; Whack performed a rap verse in the song. Later in Whack’s career, she toured with Lauryn Hill, who starred in the 1993 film. // At around fifteen, Whack who went by the moniker “Dizzle Dizz” appeared in a 2011 freestyle video produced by Philadelphia’s underground music collective We Run the Streets. Her mother drove past the group of men freestyling and encouraged her to join. She released several tracks as Dizzle Dizz including “Dizzy Rascvls”, but struggled with depression in the months afterwards. Despite being a teenager, Whack gained notoriety in the streets of Philadelphia as “Dizzle Dizz.”[14] Although she had growing fame, Whack grew bored. There was no way to make money in freestyling and no way to creatively grow. She claimed there was little experimentation and growth beyond battle rapping if she were to stay in Philadelphia. Her mother elected to move out of Philadelphia so Whack could finish school. After going to Atlanta with her mother, Whack began working at a Mister Car Wash allowing her to save for a Mac laptop and start recording her music. She was often the only woman working on the line at the car wash, and her former manager said she was a memorable person with an impressive drive, which Whack credits to her mother. // In Atlanta, Whack kept a low profile, having felt the effects of fame back home. She wanted to keep to herself to have a chance to solely focus on her music. By the time she returned to Philadelphia, she had a laptop full of two years’ worth of music, which she never ended up sharing with anyone. She left her family behind in Atlanta. During that time she was homeless for three months and hopped around staying at friends’ homes but refused to return to Atlanta. She believed staying in Philadelphia would be best for her music career. // By 2015, Whack was in Philadelphia and she reconnected with Kenete Simms, a sound engineer and music producer whom she knew from her teenage years. Whack credits Simms as being her collaborator. After she returned to working with Simms she learned how to properly mix her own music. Simms helped her use equipment in order to help her make music more easily. In 2017, she signed with Interscope Records; Johnny Montina is her manager. // In March 2017, Whack made her debut as Tierra Whack with three tracks, including “Toe Jam” and “Sh_ Happens”. In October 2017, she released “Mumbo Jumbo”, a hip-hop single and accompanying music video which featured the young rapper performing while wearing a mouth prop. Most of the lyrics to the track are purposefully unintelligible. She also toured with Flying Lotus in 2017. // Whack’s debut fifteen-track mixtape, Whack World, was released on May 30, 2018 and received a “Best New Music” accolade from Pitchfork. Critics praised the unusual format of the album—each song lasting precisely one minute. She released each short track on Instagram, each accompanied by a short film directed by Thibaut Duverneix and Mathieu Léger. The multimedia project received widespread critical acclaim. Robert Christgau gave the album an A-minus and reported in Vice that his wife, fellow critic Carola Dibbell, loved the video, saying, “it gave me reason for living”. // Often referred to as the “Missy Elliott” of this generation, Whack has gained a great amount of acclaim for the creativity and eccentricity of her music videos. The track “Mumbo Jumbo” received a nomination for Best Music Video for the 2019 Grammy Awards. In October 2018, Whack traveled to Tokyo for a long-term artistic sabbatical. // In an episode of Genius’ The Cosign series on YouTube in which current artists who have been in the industry have the opportunity to watch videos of newer artists, rapper Remy Ma chose to cosign Whack. Even though she mentioned seeing potential in each of the artists, Remy said, “I pick(ed) her because I feel like she brought the entire package as far as the song, the delivery, the vocals, and the actual visual. I feel like she did something that was super out of the ordinary, and I enjoyed it… I wanna watch it again.” In the episode of The Cosign, Whack’s music video for her single “Unemployed” was put in a group with music videos from other female MCs including Kash Doll, CupcakKe, Mulatto, Tay Money, and That Girl Lay Lay. // She has recorded as-yet-unreleased music with Meek Mill and Childish Gambino. In 2018, she toured with 6lack on his world tour, From East Atlanta with Love. Briana Younger, the writer for The Fader, wrote that “popular and mainstream rap hasn’t championed a darker-skinned woman since Missy Elliot…and Whack seems poised to be the one.” Whack acknowledged that women in the music industry often aren’t afforded the privilege to make art for art’s sake, but she refuses to let that inhibit her. Beginning February 19, 2019, Whack released one single per week for five weeks in a series she called “#whackhistorymonth.” These singles included “Only Child”, “Clones”, “Gloria”, “Wasteland”, and “Unemployed”. Whether these tracks will be released under a full-length album has not yet been revealed. Whack has said that she is not thinking about a timeline for a new album, saying “I’m not gonna drive myself crazy. I’m having fun creating what I’m creating.” Whack collaborated with Flying Lotus on the song “Yellow Belly” for his 2019 album Flamagra and she was later named as one of the members of XXL’s “2019 Freshman Class” on June 20, 2019. She appeared at many festivals in the 2019 festival season including Coachella, Primavera Sound, Lollapalooza, Outside Lands, Camp Flog Gnaw, Osheaga, and Austin City Limits. Her song “Unemployed” is featured in the football game FIFA 20. // Whack co-wrote and was featured in Melanie Martinez’s single “Copy Cat”, which was released on February 10, 2020. It marks the first time that Whack has worked in a professional capacity with Melanie Martinez.[29] In May 2020, Whack appeared alongside American rapper Lil Yachty on the song “T.D” which features rappers ASAP Rocky and Tyler, the Creator. The song was #84 on the Billboard Hot 100 and Whack’s first entry on the chart. She featured on the song “Me x 7” by Alicia Keys, taken from her seventh studio album, Alicia, in September 2020. Her 2017 single, “Mumbo Jumbo”, had an accompanying music video that garnered a Best Music Video nomination for the 2019 Grammy Awards. // In October 2020, Whack released her first solo single of the year titled “Dora”. In November 2020, she appeared in the 2020 Apple holiday commercial “The Magic of Mini” which featured the new singles, “Peppers and Onions” and “feel good” which were released coinciding with the introduction of the commercial. In April 2021, she released a single titled “Link”. The music video, created in partnership with the LEGO Group, had Whack sit with a group of schoolchildren as part of Lego’s “Rebuild the World” campaign, using their ideas as inspiration for the video. In December 2021, she released three EPs, Rap?, Pop? and R&B?. // March 15, 2024, Whack released her 2nd studio album “World Wide Whack” under Interscope Records, it received a 7.3 on the Pitchfork web site. In June 2024, she performed a Tiny Desk Concert featuring some songs from her new album; “Mood Swing”,”Accessible”, “Ms. Behave”, “Imaginary Friends”, “Moovies”, “27 Club” and “Shower Song” as well as earlier favorites: “Flea Market”, “Pretty Ugly”, and “Hungry Hippo”. The concert featured the mascot Phillie Phanatic as a proud supporter of her birth city quoting “anything Philly is all me”. // Whack’s beginnings in rap started with battle rapping and it is something she looks upon fondly. While she appreciates the foundation which it gave her for her music, she wanted to aim higher than just rap battles. Seeing artists such as Lauryn Hill, Andre 3000, and Eminem had inspired her to become a true artist. In doing so, she would be seen as something more serious than just a battle rapper. // Whack cites Outkast, Erykah Badu, Busta Rhymes, and Kelis as some of her musical influences. Whack claims there are many different things which inspire and motivate her and she wants to be able to portray those to her fans in her music. She credits Sesame Street and the children’s book No! David as some of her influences; that is clearly seen through her visuals from her album’s music video. Her inspirations come from everything, from her relationships to people to inanimate objects. Her single, “Only Child”, for example, was created after dating a man whose behavior she aligned with that of someone who grew up an only child. // Whack’s mother is often credited as one of if not the biggest inspirations for her music. She recalls her mother playing gangster rap during car rides. For her single “Unemployed”, her mother helped her create the key musical hook. // Whack has written poetry since she was a child. Writing was a way for her to deal with her shyness and insecurities. She is also an accomplished spoken word performer. // She lives in Philadelphia with her mother and her two siblings. She is still “Philly-based,” saying that Philadelphia is her home and where she feels grounded. She owns a cat, whom she named Starkey after the Whole Foods brand of sparkling water. She does not drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes. She is severely allergic to insects, a condition she satirizes in the music video for her 2018 track, “Bugs Life”.]

Gloria Jones – “Tainted Love (Single Version)”
from: Tainted Love: The Original Single / UMG / January 1, 1982 (Originally released in 1964)
[“Tainted Love” is a song composed by Ed Cobb, formerly of American group the Four Preps, which was originally recorded by Gloria Jones in 1964. Renowned session musician and virtuoso guitarist Glen Campbell played lead guitar. A version by Impedance reached #14 on the Canadian Dance charts, April 14, 1990. // American artist Gloria Jones made the first recording of “Tainted Love” in 1964, with renowned session guitarist Glen Campbell on lead guitar. The song was written and produced by Ed Cobb and arranged by Lincoln Mayorga. It was the B-side of her 1965 single “My Bad Boy’s Comin’ Home”, which was a commercial flop, failing to chart in either the US or the UK. According to Nick Talevski, before Jones recorded the song, Cobb had offered it to the Standells, whom he managed and produced, but they rejected it. The Standells say that the song was never offered to them, and that they were not signed to Cobb’s company Greengrass Productions until 1966, some two years after Jones’s recording. // In 1973, British club DJ Richard Searling purchased a copy of the almost decade-old single while on a trip to the United States. The track’s Motown-influenced sound (featuring a fast tempo, horns, electric rhythm guitar and female backing vocals) fit in perfectly with the music favoured by those involved in the UK’s Northern soul club scene of the early 1970s, and Searling popularised the song at the Northern soul club Va Va’s in Bolton, and later, at Wigan Casino. // Owing to the new-found underground popularity of the song, Jones re-recorded “Tainted Love” in 1976 and released it as a single, but it also failed to chart. This version was released on her album Vixen and was produced by her boyfriend Marc Bolan. // It attained worldwide fame after being covered and reworked by British synth-pop duo Soft Cell in 1981 and has since been covered by numerous groups and artists. // In 2014, NME ranked it number 305 in their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.// Gloria Richetta Jones (born October 19, 1945) is an American singer and songwriter who first found success in the United Kingdom, being recognized there as “The Queen of Northern Soul”.She recorded the 1965 hit song “Tainted Love” and has worked in multiple genres as a Motown songwriter and recording artist, backing vocalist, and as a performer in musicals such as Hair. In the 1970s, she was a keyboardist and vocalist in Marc Bolan’s glam rock band T. Rex. She and Bolan were also in a committed romantic relationship and had a son together. // Jones first met Marc Bolan of T. Rex in 1969 while performing in Hair (Los Angeles cast). While touring in Europe, Bolan and Jones met for the second time at the Speakeasy in London. In 1972, she was recommended by Warner Brothers’ Bob Regehr to sing backing vocals behind T. Rex at Winterland in San Francisco. // Soon after joining T. Rex, Jones and Bolan became romantically involved. They had a son, Rolan Bolan (b. September 26, 1975). She sang backing vocals and played clavinet with T. Rex from 1973 to 1977. Her rendition of “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” appears as a bonus track on T. Rex’s album Bolan’s Zip Gun. Jones released an album in 1976, called Vixen, which featured several songs written by Bolan, and he also was the producer for the album. // In 1977, Jones worked with the group Gonzalez, producing several of their singles, and also penning the disco hit, “Haven’t Stopped Dancing Yet” for the group. She toured the UK with Gonzalez, first on the Bob Marley tour, and then with Osibisa. // She was the driver of the car, a Mini 1275 GT, that struck a tree near Barnes Common, killing Bolan at 4:00am on September 16, 1977, on the way back to Bolan’s Richmond property. They had been returning from an evening at a restaurant in Mayfair where they had both been drinking wine. Jones was found by her brother Richard with her foot trapped beneath the clutch by the engine. Bolan was found unconscious in the passenger seat, which had been dislodged and landed in the rear of the vehicle. Jones was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Bolan was not wearing a seat belt. Jones was conscious after the crash. Bolan, who was a passenger in the car that slammed into the tree, was pronounced dead at the scene on the arrival of paramedics. Jones survived the crash but was critically injured. She sustained a broken jaw in the crash. When she recovered sufficiently to leave hospital, she was informed that Bolan’s fans had looted most of their possessions from their house. She was later scheduled to appear in court in London on charges of being unfit to drive and of driving a car in a dangerous condition. However, she left the UK with her son and returned to the US before the court date so the Coroner’s Court recorded a verdict of accidental death. // Having lost her possessions, Jones moved with her son back to Los Angeles, where they stayed with Jones’s family. // In 1978, she released the album Windstorm, which she dedicated to the memory of Bolan: the back cover reads, “Special dedication in memory of my son’s father, Marc Bolan, whom we miss very much.” Her single “Bring on the Love” was a success on the American R&B chart. // Jones stayed in the music industry for several years after, releasing an album produced by Ed Cobb, titled Reunited in 1981. She also collaborated again with Billy Preston and other Cogic Singers for a 1984 reunion album The Cogic’s. She has since worked as a musical supervisor for films. // On her 1982 album Reunited, she was proclaimed “Northern Queen of Soul”. // In 2010, together with her son Rolan, she established the Marc Bolan School of Music & Film in Makeni, Sierra Leone. / She is featured in the film 20 Feet from Stadium.]

Lilblackkids, Georgia Anne Muldrow & Keith Rice – “The Wait” \
from: Planet Of The Blues: Part Two / Epistrophik Peach Sound / October 22, 2023
[Following their release of the original “Planet Of The Blues” EP in early 2022, Singer, Producer “Georgia Anne Muldrow” and Producer,Songwriter, Instumentalist “Keith Rice” collaborate again as “LilBLACKKIDS” for their Sequel EP “Planet Of The Blues Part Two” now available on dsps.]

Los Rakas & Big Klef – “Candela”
from: “Candela” – Single / WSAMG / August 26, 2022
[Los Rakas was born in the youth centers of Oakland, CA in 2006. This duo are of Panamanian descent and raised in both cultures. Los Rakas are known for rocking any party – from youth events to world wide festivals, they hype the crowd and get the party all the way live! What is a raka? a person who is proud of who they are. ore info at: losrakas.com]

AKU – “FALASTINI PIANO”
from: “FALASTINI PIANO” – Single / Records DK / January 12, 2024

11:34 – Underwriting

The Roots – “Somebody’s Gotta Do It (feat. Jean Grae)”
from: The Tipping Point / Geffen Records / January 1, 2004
[The Roots are an American hip hop band formed in 1987 by singer Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter and drummer Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Roots serve as the house band on NBC’s The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, having served in the same role on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon from 2009 to 2014. Current regular members of The Roots on The Tonight Show are Captain Kirk Douglas (guitar), Mark Kelley (bass), James Poyser (keyboards), Ian Hendrickson-Smith (saxophone), Damon “Tuba Gooding Jr.” Bryson (sousaphone), Stro Elliot (keyboards and drums), Dave Guy (trumpet), Kamal Gray (keyboards), and Raymond Angry (keyboards). // The Roots are known for a jazzy and eclectic approach to hip hop featuring live musical instruments and the group’s work has consistently been met with critical acclaim. ThoughtCo ranked the band #7 on its list of the 25 Best Hip-Hop Groups of All-Time, calling them “Hip-hop’s first legitimate band.” // In addition to the band’s music, several members of the Roots are involved in side projects, including record production, acting, and regularly serving as guests on other musicians’ albums and live shows. // Black Thought with the Roots in 1999: “The Roots originated in Philadelphia with Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson and Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter while they were both attending the Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts.] They would busk out on the street corners with Questlove playing bucket drums and Black Thought rapping over his rhythms. Their first organized gig was a talent show in 1989 at the school where they used the name Radio Activity, which began a series of name changes that progressed through Black to the Future and then The Square Roots. Another MC, Malik B., and a permanent bass player, Leonard “Hub” Hubbard, were added to the band before the release of their first album. In 1992, they dropped the “Square” from “Square Roots” because a local folk group had claim to the name.” // Unable to break through in their native Philadelphia, the band briefly moved to London, where they would release their 1993 debut, Organix. The album was released and sold independently. In the span of a year, the band developed a cult following in Europe, boosted by touring. The Roots would receive offers from music labels, and the band eventually signed with DGC/Geffen. // Several members, including longtime member Malik B., left the group. In December 2001, the Roots backed Jay-Z for his MTV Unplugged concert. With heightened popularity came mounting pressure. The Roots released Phrenology (named after the pseudoscience of the same name) in 2002. Despite not charting as high as Things Fall Apart, reaching a peak of No. 28 on the charts, Phrenology was commercially successful, being certified gold, and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. At the time, however, there came rumors that the Roots were losing interest in their signing with MCA. During this time, the band backed Jay-Z for his 2003 farewell concert in Madison Square Garden and appeared in the accompanying Fade to Black concert film. // After Phrenology, Ben Kenney and Scratch both left the group; Kenney joined the rock band Incubus. This culminated with the release of 2004’s The Tipping Point, the byproduct of several jam sessions. The album earned two more Grammy nominations: one for Best Urban/Alternative Performance for the track “Star/Pointro” and another for Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group for the track “Don’t Say Nuthin’.” The Tipping Point peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard album chart. In 2005, Home Grown! The Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the Roots, Volumes 1 & 2, a two-disc compilation album, was released. The Roots were among several performers on the 2006 film Dave Chappelle’s Block Party, whose event took place on September 18, 2004, and was released on film two years later.]

Outkast – “In Due Time (with Cee-Lo) – Single”
from: “”In Due Time” – Single / RCA Records / September 16, 1997
[A single from the Soundtrack to Soul Food the soundtrack to the 1997 film of the same name. It was released on September 16, 1997, through LaFace Records and mainly consisted of R&B music with some hip hop music. The soundtrack was a success, peaking at number 4 on the Billboard 200 and number 1 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and was certified double Multi-Platinum on February 17, 1998. Four singles charted on the Billboard Hot 100: “I Care ‘Bout You” , “What About Us?” by Total, “We’re Not Making Love No More” by Dru Hill, and “A Song for Mama” by Boyz II Men, the latter of which was a number 1 R&B single. The soundtrack was also noted for the fictional quintet group Milestone, consisting of K-Ci & JoJo (of Jodeci), Babyface and his brothers, Kevon and Melvin Edmonds (of After 7), who all came together once for their single and cameo appearance in the film. // Outkast (sometimes written as OutKast) was an American hip hop duo formed in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1992, consisting of Big Boi (Antwan Patton) and André 3000 (André Benjamin, formerly known as Dré). Widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential hip hop acts of all time, the duo achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s, helping to popularize Southern hip hop with their intricate lyricism, memorable melodies, and positive themes, while experimenting with a diverse range of genres such as funk, psychedelia, jazz, and techno. // Patton and Benjamin formed Outkast as high school students. They released their debut studio album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik in 1994, which gained popularity after its single “Player’s Ball” peaked atop the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart. The duo further experimented and honed their sound with their second and third albums ATLiens (1996) and Aquemini (1998), both of which were met with critical acclaim. They then achieved mainstream recognition and continued acclaim with their fourth album Stankonia (2000), which was supported by the singles “B.O.B.” and “Ms. Jackson”, the latter of which topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group at the 44th Annual Grammy Awards. // The duo then released the double album Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003), their only album to debut atop the Billboard 200. It received Diamond certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), was supported by their second and third number one singles: “The Way You Move” (performed by Big Boi) and “Hey Ya!” (performed by André 3000), respectively, and won Album of the Year at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards. Outkast starred in the 2006 musical film Idlewild and recorded the film’s accompanying soundtrack, which was released as their final album three days before the film’s release. The duo split the following year, and both members have pursued solo careers. Outkast temporarily reunited in 2014 to celebrate their debut album’s 20th anniversary with performances at more than 40 festivals worldwide, beginning at the Coachella Festival in April 2014. // Along with being one of hip hop’s most influential acts, Outkast is also one of the most successful, having certified sales of 20 million records between six studio albums and a compilation album, as well as having earned six Grammy Awards. In 2015, Rolling Stone ranked them No. 7 on its list of the “20 Greatest Duos of All Time”, while publications such as it and Pitchfork have listed their albums among the best in all of hip hop and of all time.]

Mach-Hommy – “Self Luh”
from: Balens Cho (Hot Candles) / Mach-Hommy, Inc. / December 4, 2021
[Mach-Hommy is an American rapper and record producer. He is known for concealing his real name and face in all public appearances, a practice that has led him to be described as “one of hip-hop’s most elusive artists”. // Mach-Hommy has gained a cult following as a result of his work ethic and sense of mystery. His lyrics are often heavily related to the social and political history of his Haitian heritage. Though he predominantly raps in English, he also frequently incorporates Haitian Kreyòl into his lyrics. He disallows his lyrics from being posted on lyric sites, describing such republishing as the sites “monetizing” his work,[3] and he charges hundreds and even thousands of dollars for his releases, many of which are not available on streaming services. // Mach-Hommy was raised predominantly in Newark, New Jersey, but also spent much of his childhood in Port-au-Prince. His father was a folk guitarist, and Mach credits his father’s musical style as an influence on his own. The first music Mach recorded was at the age of 13, when he performed a freestyle over the beat to Raekwon’s “Verbal Intercourse”. // In his early career, Mach found the music recording process to be an “unhealthy” environment and sought to take up filmmaking instead. However, at the encouragement of several Griselda members, he performed a verse for the song “Beloved”, which motivated him to begin rapping again. // Mach-Hommy first received widespread attention after the release of his 2016 album, H.B.O. (Haitian Body Odor), which he sold via Instagram. Mach pressed only 187 copies of the H.B.O. CD and sold them for $300 apiece, before eventually uploading the album to SoundCloud in 2017. He released numerous other albums in the following years, many of which were sold at high prices through services like Bandcamp and never released on streaming services. // In 2021, Mach-Hommy released his album Pray for Haiti on most streaming services. Mach stated that he would donate his share of profits from the album to the Pray for Haiti Trust Fund, a charity he established to fund educational services and institutions in Haiti. Pray for Haiti also brought Mach a greater level of attention from the music press, with Pitchfork honoring the album with a “Best New Music” award and Rolling Stone describing it as “a modern hip-hop classic”. // Mach-Hommy has intermittently associated with the Griselda Records label. Though Mach was once considered part of the Griselda collective, he separated from them after a falling-out with Westside Gunn, and as of 2017 Mach-Hommy was unaffiliated with the label.[6][7] Mach and Gunn eventually reconciled in late 2020, as Westside Gunn served as an executive producer of Pray for Haiti. // On May 17, 2024, Mach-Hommy independently released #Richaxxhaitian. The album contained features from Kaytranada, 03 Greedo, Roc Marciano, and Black Thought, among others. The album received positive reviews from critics. // In an interview with Billboard, Mach stated that he speaks every Romance language. He is also an avid fisher and hunter. // Mach-Hommy cites a wide range of writers as influential upon him, including William Shakespeare, Chinua Achebe, George Orwell, Lorraine Hansberry, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Dante. He also cites political and philosophical thinkers such as Malcolm X, C. L. R. James, Thomas Aquinas, and Friedrich Nietzsche. He cites Prodigy and Mobb Deep as musical influences.]

Teedra Moses – “BE YOUR GIRL (KAYTRANADA REMIX)”
from: BE YOUR GIRL (KAYTRANADA REMIX) – Single / Back Moses Ent. / May 4, 2018
[Teedra Shenita Moses was born December 17, 1976. She is an American R&B and soul singer-songwriter. // Moses was born and raised in New Orleans. She later moved to Los Angeles with her mother and three siblings after her parents separated.// Her childhood has been a direct influence on her musical style, her mother was a gospel singer and she was raised on gospel, jazz, zydeco and blues. // Moses recalls wanting to listen to the music that was then being played on the radio, but her mother made her listen to gospel. The final song on her debut album, “I Think of You (Shirley’s Song)”, is dedicated to her late mother. // Prior to becoming a recording artist, Moses worked as an assistant wardrobe stylist alongside her best friend Nonja McKenzie for artists such as Will Smith, Kelis, R. Kelly and No Doubt. But after breaking her leg on a video set, Moses decided to follow her heart and make music. // Moses teamed up with producer Paul Poli and signed with the Indie Record Label, TVT Records to release her debut album Complex Simplicity in August 2004. Complex Simplicity included fourteen tracks penned by Moses, with dominant production handled by Poli; the two would share a deserved executive production credit. The album underperformed on the major U.S. chart, debuting and peaking at number one hundred and sixty-eight on the Billboard 200. However, the album was critically acclaimed, otherwise finding success on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums, the Top Independent Albums, and the Top Heatseekers charts, reaching number twenty, number eleven, and number ten, respectively. It is now considered a cult classic. // In addition to executive producing and penning all the lyrics on her own project, Moses has written songs for other artists including Nivea, Christina Milian, Mary J. Blige and others. She was featured on and co-wrote two songs from Raphael Saadiq’s 2004 album Ray Ray, “Chic” and “I Want You Back”. Her songs have been showcased in the Logo series Noah’s Arc as well as in the HBO hit show Entourage, and in movies such as Never Die Alone, Beauty Shop, and Be Cool. // Though Moses had not released a studio album in several years, she could be found touring and doing live shows on a regular basis. From March to November 2010 Moses was a spokesmodel on the Lady Hennessy Tour. In addition, Moses continued to release underground, all-original mixtapes for her fans to enjoy while she awaited a new label deal that was necessitated by the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filed by the now defunct TVT Records in 2008. //On March 25, 2011, it was announced that Moses had signed to rapper Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group via Warner Bros. Records as its first female artist. In 2011, Moses released the Luxurious Undergrind mixtape. // In February 2014, Moses released the single “All I Ever Wanted,” which samples Dynasty’s 1980 song “Adventures in the Land of Music”. The song was released as the lead single from her EP Cognac & Conversation, which is co-executive produced by Rick Ross and Raphael Saadiq. // In December 2014, it was reported that Moses signed to Shanachie Records after the ill-fated alliance with Maybach Music Group. Moses revealed singer Avery Sunshine was the reason why she signed with the label, due to the success that Sunshine is having while being on Shanachie’s roster. On August 8, 2015, finally second album Cognac & Conversation was released. // When writing songs, Moses prefers to do so alone in her own space. Commenting on this Moses said; “I hate to admit it because it sounds so weird, but I don’t like other energies around me. I need to be alone, in my own space, with just me and my music so I can be honest with whatever I feel from the music; otherwise I’m just giving something from the surface.” Moses also tries to always be honest with her lyrical content noting it as important to her, expanding on this Moses commented saying “If I’m honest with people, then people will feel that. And that’s been my experience so far, just being frank about my feelings about life, and my experiences in life and love. I think me being honest like that is why I’ve gained sincere fans. From here to America, sincere people who really dig me, that can quote lyrics.”]

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

NEXT WEEK, on February 26 – Just Angel and T.A. Rell join us to share new music, plus Bill Belzer & Charlie Colborne of Miss Boating will be here, and we’ll also talk with Dylan Pease and members of the band, 4 Dimensional Flowers.

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

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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Other: https://leslieandlunaco.com/collections/local-artist-merch

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On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or
STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org

Show #1083

WMM presents: Ross Brown of Fullbloods + Run With It + Nathan Reusch & Zach Laman of KC Synthesizer Collective

Posted on February 10, 2025 by Mark Manning

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

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

WMM presents: Ross Brown of Fullbloods + Run With It + Nathan Reusch & Zach Laman of KC Synthesizer Collective

Mark spins more New & MidCoastal Releases from: Fullbloods, Run With It, Bobcat Attack, wrker, Dusk Runner, Lady Blackbird, Moses Sumney with Syd + Meshell Ndegeocello, Lauren Auder + Wendy & Lisa, Benjamin Booker, Beabadoobee, and FKA twigs.

We’ll also play more tracks from a new project from the non-profit Red Hot Organization. TRAИƧA is a spiritual journey across eight chapters and 46 songs with over 100 artists contributing and collaborating with this incredible collection. This 6-LP Box Set spotlights many of the most daring, imaginative trans and non-binary artists working in music today. Many of the artists in this collective we have been featuring on WMM since our inception as a radio show. More info at: https://redhot.org/

At 10:30 we’ll talk with Ross Brown about “Playing It Safe” the new studio album from Fullbloods released both digitally and on vinyl through High Dive Records on March 7, 2025. Fullbloods is a studio project of songwriter and producer Ross Brown who is also in the bands: Shy Boys, Koney, and Snacky. When Fullbloods play live, Ross is joined on stage by his friends: Konner Ervin on guitar, Kyle Little on keyboards, Kyle Rausch on bass, Fritz Hutchison on drums. Lionell Williams aka “Vinyl Williams” of PRIVATE PLAYLIST on KCRW calls “Ross Brown a frickin’ genius. He’s the modern day Brian Wilson of America. His whole album, the entire way through, is one of those albums [where] every microsecond, every quantum moment, is wow. He’s just a straight-up genius.” // Fullbloods play The Ship 1221 Union Ave, KCMO on Friday February 21, at 9:00 pm with Fake Italian for Daniel Gum’s The Great Conjunction Album Release Show. // Fullbloods play their own Album Release Show at Hillsiders 403 N. 5th Street, KCK on Friday, March 7 at 8:00 PM with Schemada, and 2w33dy. More info at: http://www.fullbloods.com

At 11:00am members of Run With It return to WMM. Miguel Antonio on lead vocals & guitar, Daniel Cole on drums & percussion, Paul Seiz on keyboards, Cody Ryan Stapleton on lead guitar; and Matt Muckenthaler on bass guitar collectively are one of the hardest working bands in Kansas City. For nearly a decade, Run With It has been touring across the country, from college campus showcases to corporate galas. Their high-octane performances leave an indelible mark. Run With It combine their exceptional original songs with skillful covers of artists like Kings of Leon and Ed Sheeran. Run With It are influenced by The Black Keys, Maroon 5, Bill Withers, OneRepublic, and Imagine Dragons with backgrounds in gritty rock, groovy soul, and stylish R&B. Their alternative rock vibe creates an electrifying atmosphere. Run With It released their recent singles: “Ghost Like You” on September 13, 2024; “Nightwatch” on August 21, 2024; and “It’s Not Over (feat. The Royal Chief) on April 10, 2024. // Run With It play a 60-minute concert on MidCoast LIVE! Friday, February 14, at 12:00 noon on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio. More info at: linktr.ee/runwithitband

At 11:30 Nathan Reusch and Zach Laman share details about the Kansas City Synthesizer Collective, a group of electronic musicians working to build platforms for experimental & emerging artists. The KC Synthesizer Collective is cultivating a community centered around creativity & self-expression in the electronic music scene. The collective meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 6:00pm to 10:00 pm at Stockyards Brewing Co. Nathan is co-founder of indie label, The Record Machine and is also a DJ. The pandemic inspired Reusch to dust off his Bobcat Attack moniker and renewed his interest in making music. He joined KC’s Synth Collective and found a group of similarly-minded electronic musicians. Zach Laman records as wrker. We feature wrker’s newest single “Ice” from wrker’s upcoming EP. // The Kansas City Synthesizer Collective will celebrate their third anniversary with a special show, Friday, February 21, at 7:00pm, at Stockyards Brewing Co, 1600 Genessee St, Ste 100, KCMO. More info at: http://www.kcsynthcollective.com

On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or
STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org

Show #1082

WMM Playlist from February 5, 2025

Posted on February 6, 2025 by Mark Manning

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

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

WMM presents Chris Garibaldi & Mark Henning on James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep + Daniel Gum + Diana Watts, Trish Price, & Kevin King of Whim Productions

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

Fontaines D.C. – “Starburster (Radio Edit)”
from: Romance / XL Recordings / August 23, 2024
[4th studio album by Irish rock band Fontaines D.C. “Starburster” was the lead single. It also features the singles “Favourite”, “Here’s the Thing”, “In the Modern World” and “Bug”. It is their 1st release on XL Recordings, after the band left Partisan Records, and was produced by James Ford. // Fontaines D.C. are an Irish post-punk band formed in Dublin in 2014. The band consists of Grian Chatten (vocals), Conor Curley (guitar), Conor Deegan III (bass), Tom Coll (drums) and Carlos O’Connell (guitar). // The band members met while attending music college and bonded over a common love of poetry. They began self-releasing singles and performing live regularly, signing to Partisan Records in 2018. The band’s debut album, Dogrel, was released on April 12, 2019 to widespread critical acclaim. It was listed as Album of the Year on record store Rough Trade’s website, voted Album of the Year by presenters on BBC Radio 6 Music, and nominated for the Mercury Prize and the Choice Music Prize. // The band’s second studio album, A Hero’s Death, written and recorded in the midst of touring to promote their debut album, was released on 31 July 2020. A Hero’s Death was nominated for Best Rock Album at the 2021 Grammy Awards. Their third album, Skinty Fia, released in 2022, was the band’s first to reach number one on the Irish Albums Chart and UK Albums Chart and contributed to their winning the Brit Award for International Group. The band’s fourth album, Romance, was released on August 23, 2024. Romance won The Album Award at the Rolling Stone UK Awards 2024.]

Kadesh Flow – “Thesis Statement (Radio Edit)”
from: “Thesis Statement (Radio Edit)” – Single / Kadesh Flow / January 31, 2025
[Instrumental Production: D. Professor; Lyrics & Vocal Performance: Kadesh Flow; Mixing: Kadesh Flow; Mastering: Kadesh Flow; and Single Art: Kadesh Flow // Kadesh writes: “I started writing this during my flight to Belfast on November 5, 2024. Just reflecting on how 2024 was my redo of 2019, and how pivotal 2019 was for me. I hit rock bottom and rose to great success from it. Lost everything in 2020, mostly due to COVID shut downs, and spent 3 years rebuilding from 2021-2024. Aside from the personal reflection, this song is a recognition that there could be hard times coming, but there’s hope as long as we’re alive, so we have to keep fighting to win. Community is immensely important, especially now.” // Kadesh Flow is Ryan Davis is a rapper with an MBA. He is an emcee, producer, & trombonist. At age 11, he began rapping and playing trombone within two weeks of one another. His music has been featured on network television in multiple countries and territories across Southeast Asia. Kadesh performs as a solo hip hop artist. He also plays with The Phantastics, Marcus Lewis Big Band, Deshica Rage (w/ Jessica Paige). Info at: http://www.kadeshflow.com]

Kadesh Flow Discography
“Thesis Statement (Radio Edit)” – Single – January 31, 2025
“Our Christmas Town (feat. Mix Williams & Oricadia)” – Single – Dec. 24, 2024
“All Day” – Single – October 14, 2024
“Vader Choke Freestyle” – Single – May 3, 2024
‘Level Up” – Single – April 22, 2024
“I Can (Mahito) -Kadesh Flow x Gr3ys0n x Shwabadi” – Single – April 5, 2024
“Stand on Business (feat. Mega Ran)” – Single – January 19, 2024
“Overcome (Nanami)” – Single – January 1, 2024
“Stakes” – Single – November 17, 2023
“Switch Up” – Single – January 6, 2023
“Heaters” _ Singles – November 11, 2022
”Chill (feat. Mir Blackwell).” – Single – October 21, 2022
“Dream For Me” – Single – October 10, 2022
“You’re Very Special (feat. Kemet Coleman, Kadesh Flow & Kevin Church Johnson) – Marcus Lewis Big Band – single – September 30, 2022
“Away From You” – Single – July 1, 2022
“Future Ex (feat. Vincent Orsolini & DJ Skittlez)” – Single – Feb. 14, 2022
“Move Different (feat. Gr3s0n)” – Single – January 21, 2022
“Part of The Plan” – Single – January 7, 2022
“Beast Mode (feat. Mega Ran)” – Single – Dec. 31, 2021
“Choice (The Cost)” – Single – December 17, 2021
“Gardens Out The Gutter” – Single – Dec. 3, 2021
“No Options (feat. Jamar Rose)” – Single – Nov. 12, 2021
“Fiend” – Single – Sept. 4, 2021
“Easy” – Single – August 27, 2021
“Coming For Your Neck” – Single – August 20, 2021
ROOM SERVICE 2 – 13-track album – July 19, 2021
“Elegant” – Single – May 21, 2021
”Lighten Up” – Single – May 7, 2021
“On Target” – Single – April 30, 2021
“So Far” – Single – April 23, 2021
“That Way” – Single – April 16, 2021
“I Don’t Care” – Single – April 9, 2021
“Take Backs (feat. Ryan Heinlein)” – Single – March 26, 2021
“But Hope” – Single – March 26, 2021
“Forgot About Me” – Single – March 14, 2021
“Your Dream Isn’t Always Yours” – Single – March 12, 2021
“No Doubts” – Single –
“Not on My Watch” – Single – February 19, 2021
“Cry For Me 2” – Single – February 12, 2021
“Frosty” – Single – February 12, 2021
“Assumptions feat. Shubzilla,” – Single – Jan. 29, 2021
“Soft Side” – Kadesh Flow & The Enclave – Single – Jan. 21, 2021
“Lit For The Holidays (feat. Andrew The Only)” – Single – Dec. 22, 2020
Bleach Anime Lofi Pack 1 – 2-track Single – October 8, 2020
“Too Soon” / “Free People” – 2-Pack Single – June 5, 2020
JoJo’s Jazz-hop 1 (2-Pack) Single – April 23, 2020
“I’m A Hero (Bone Bars)” – Single – April 9, 2020
MOTIVATED – 6-track EP – January 31, 2020
“Something Now (feat. Richie Branson & Atlas)” – Single – September 14, 2018
ROOM SERVICE – 6-track EP – March 30, 2018
“Headmaster” – Single – December 9, 2016
WE ARE FAITHFUL – 8-track album – October 9, 2015
GATEWAYS – 15-track Album – October 2, 2014
NerdKrunk Volume 3 – 10-track Album – April 18, 2013
NerdKrunk Volume 2 – 10-track Album – November 28, 2012
NerdKrunk Volume 1 – 10-track Album – September 5, 2012
THE BANKAI FLOW MIXTAPE – 11-track Album – July 27, 2012

Cymande – “Chasing An Empty Dream (Radio Edit)”
from: Renascence / BMG / January 31, 2025
[Legendary British band Cymande release their highly anticipated new album, Renascence, via BMG. // Cymande (pronounced /sɪˈmɑːndeɪ/ sih-MAHN-day) are a British funk group that was originally active in the early 1970s. The band name derives from a calypso word for “dove”, which symbolises peace and love;[2] “Dove” is also the title of one of their best-known songs. With a membership deriving from several Caribbean nations, Cymande were noted for an eclectic mix of funk, soul, reggae, rock, African music, calypso, and jazz that they called “nyah-rock”.[3][4][5] The band formed in 1971 and released three albums before disbanding in 1974. After gaining newfound popularity when their music was sampled by many notable rap artists, Cymande reformed in the 2010s. Their most recent album Renascence was released in January 2025. // A true return to form and jewel in the crown of their iconic discography, Renascence picks up where their 1974 album Promised Heights left off – a spiritual and sonic follow-up, bringing a fresh modern edge to their iconic sound, which remains foundational to early hip-hop and funk scenes in the United States and UK. Renascence tells the story of a band that never fully got its due back in the day; but are back to take the crown by remaining true to themselves – politically aware, and spiritually positive with infectious grooves. // “Chasing An Empty Dream,” the first track on Renascence, beckons you back into the world of Cymande with an unforgettable grizzly bassline hook – as is their way – addictive percussion, global rhythms inspired by their diasporic origins, layered horns and a powerful message for the world. // Their new album, Renascence is a true return to form and jewel in the crown of their iconic discography and picks up where their 1974 album Promised Heights left off – a spiritual and sonic follow-up, bringing a fresh modern edge to their iconic sound, which remains foundational to early hip-hop and funk scenes in the United States and UK. Renascence tells the story of a band that never fully got its due back in the day, but are back to take the crown by remaining true to themselves – politically aware, and spiritually positive with infectious grooves. // Last year, Cymande’s unique story was told on the on big screen for the first time in the UK (via BFI) and in cinemas around the world (via Abramorama) with Getting It Back: The Story Of Cymande (Directed by award winning director Tim Mackenzie-Smith). This empowering and thought-provoking documentary shows the band’s depth of influence across decades and features interviews with Mark Ronson, Laura Lee and Mark Speer (Khruangbin), DJ Maseo (De La Soul), Jazzie B (Soul II Soul), Cut Chemist, Jim James (My Morning Jacket), Louie Vega, Kool DJ Red Alert, and so many others. Directed by Tim Mackenzie-Smith, the film debuted at SXSW in 2022 and has now traveled the world twice over. // As Total Film said in their review of the documentary ‘Tim Mackenzie-Smith’s joyous doc offers some Searching for Sugar Man-style reappraisal // Cymande (pronounced /sɪˈmɑːndeɪ/ sih-MAHN-day) are a British funk group that was originally active in the early 1970s. The band name derives from a calypso word for “dove”, which symbolises peace and love; “Dove” is also the title of one of their best-known songs. With a membership deriving from several Caribbean nations, Cymande were noted for an eclectic mix of funk, soul, reggae, rock, African music, calypso, and jazz that they called “nyah-rock”. The band formed in 1971 and released three albums before disbanding in 1974. After gaining newfound popularity when their music was sampled by many notable rap artists, Cymande reformed in the 2010s] Their most recent album Renascence was released in January 2025.]

Dandelion Lakewood – “Faerie Queen from Cahersiveen”
from: Faerie Queen from Cahersiveen / Fire Next Time Records / January 29, 2025
[Dandelion Lakewood, the psychedelic artist known for blending multiple genres of folk music. “Faerie Queen from Cahersiveen” is a 6/8 minor key blues ballad telling the tale of a magical adventure in County Kerry, Ireland. // “Faerie Queen from Cahersiveen” is a bluesy folk song with a full arrangement of guitars, Irish penny whistle, Turkish banjo, hand drums and tambourine. and vocal layers. Lakewood’s characteristic singing blends all these ingredients into a captivating mixture of sounds and rhythms. // Dandelion writes: “Years ago, I was backpacking and busking across Ireland with barely a penny to my name. I had some inspirational moments during that time and decided to pen a ballad in homage to my time absorbing the traditions of the Green Isle.” // Dandelion Lakewood is a bard, multi-instrumentalist, composer, audio engineer, and video maker born in Kansas City. He is the founding member of the band Bowl of Dust & Co. and host of the podcast “Voice Seeker”. He integrates various styles into his eclectic blend of Folk, Blues, Americana, Balkan, Middle Eastern and Psychedelic sounds. // Dandy became a wandering bard unexpectedly in 2014. It was then that he abandoned his life in Chicago and went on a musical journey spanning Hawai’i, Europe, Ireland, North Africa, The Balkans, and Turkiye to absorb musical traditions and play music for countless people in festivals, bars, cafes, living rooms, barns, streets, and forests. He has been based in Kansas City since 2022 and has music available on streaming platforms everywhere.]

Religion of Heartbreak – “Dream Reflection (EP Mix)”
from: Dream Reflection – EP / Religion of Heartbreak / February 3, 2025
[Dedric Moore on vocals, guitar, synths, programming; Mikal Shapiro on vocals
Krysztof Nemeth: baritone guitar, electronic percussion; Alexander Thomas on electronic percussion on MGGG, Dream Reflection, Skeptic; Regan Moore on electronic percussion on Dark Hour of Meditation // Dream Reflection EP carries forward the motorized heartbeat of classic darkwave while forging its own metallic path. Drawing from EBM and Synth Pop traditions, this five-track release sees the Monta At Odds offshoot strip away unnecessary embellishments, leaving only the essential elements and textural remnants that speak to our collective digital malaise. // The EP’s centerpiece and title track emerges like a ghost in the machine, with Mikal Shapiro’s coolly delivered vocals floating above Dedric Moore’s gritty synth programming and precision-guided guitar along with Krysztof Nemeth’s synth pad percussion. Each track builds upon this foundation, from the robot-dance urgency of “Forget About You” to the beautiful desolation of “Skeptic,” creating a cohesive statement about modern isolation and the personas we construct. The result feels familiar and alien—like catching your reflection in a black mirror and seeing someone else staring back. // 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 with Dedric Moore on vocals, guitar, synths, programming; Mikal Shapiro on vocals; and Krysztof Nemeth on baritone guitar and electronic percussion.]

Jamie xx & Nia Archives– “Waited All Night (ft. Romy, Oliver Sim & The xx)”
from: In Waves / Young / September 20, 2024
[One of multiple singles from In Waves, the second studio album by English producer Jamie xx. It was preceded by the singles “Baddy on the Floor” featuring Honey Dijon and “Treat Each Other Right”, and will be his first album in nine years, following In Colour (2015). The album also includes collaborations with Jamie xx’s xx bandmates Romy and Oliver Sim, Kelsey Lu, John Glacier, Panda Bear, Robyn, the Avalanches, and Oona Doherty. An additional collaboration with Erykah Badu will feature on the deluxe vinyl. // The album was recorded over a period of four years. In a statement, Jamie xx likened his experiences since releasing his previous album to “waves that we have all experienced together and alone”, and said that he wanted to “make something fun, joyful and introspective all at once” as “the best moments on a dance floor are usually that” for him. From 2022 to early 2024, Jamie xx released the standalone singles “Let’s Do It Again”, “Kill Dem”, and “It’s So Good”, which are included on the deluxe vinyl edition of the album. // James Thomas Smith (born 28 October 1988), known professionally as Jamie xx, is an English musician, DJ, record producer, and remixer. He is known for both his solo work and as a member of the indie pop band the xx. // He has been described as a “driving force” behind the xx, contributing to the group’s significant commercial and critical success. As a solo artist, he has been recognised with a 2015 Mercury Prize nomination, and a 2016 Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album nomination for In Colour. // Smith was born in London on October 28, 1988. His musical career began in 2006 when he joined the xx accompanying old schoolmates Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and Baria Qureshi of the Elliott School in London, notable for alumni including Hot Chip, Burial, and Four Tet. He first used the stage name Jamie xx in July 2009 in a promotional mix for the band’s debut album xx released on the FACT magazine mix series. The mixtape was compiled by Jamie Smith and featured, amongst others, four tracks credited to Jamie xx – one self-production and three remixes. The xx album went on to become platinum in the UK. Afterward, Jamie Smith went on to do more remix work for artists like Florence + The Machine, Adele, Jack Peñate and Glasser. // In late 2010, a Jamie xx remix of the song “NY Is Killing Me” from Gil Scott-Heron’s last album I’m New Here aired on radio stations across the UK and Europe. The remix of “I’ll Take Care of U” followed in January 2011. Both singles drew the attention of the general public and the critics. They set the way for a 13-track remix album entitled We’re New Here, produced entirely by Jamie xx and credited to “Gil Scott-Heron and Jamie xx”. The album was released on February 21, 2011 on the XL Recordings label, but a full-album preview could be streamed on the website of The Guardian as early as 14 February. We’re New Here received critical acclaim and was named “a cohesive, considered masterpiece in its own right” by BBC’s Ele Beattie. // On June 6, 2011, the two-track self-produced single “Far Nearer / Beat For” was released. The song “Far Nearer” was selected Best New Track by Pitchfork, and the double A-side single charted at number 128 on the UK Singles Chart. Later the same year, Smith produced the title track off Drake’s second album, Take Care, which features Rihanna. In addition, Smith helped create several reworks for Radiohead’s song “Bloom” which were released on a remix album entitled TKOL RMX 1234567. He also co-produced the song “When It’s All Over” with Alicia Keys on her Girl on Fire album. In 2014, he announced an upcoming collaboration with John Talabot on Tim Sweeney’s Beats in Space online radio show. In 2014, he released the singles “Girl/Sleep Sound” and “All Under One Roof Raving”. // On 27 March 2015, he released two singles: “Loud Places”, featuring the xx’s Romy Madley Croft, and “Gosh”. On the same day he also announced that his debut album, In Colour, would be out on 1 June 2015. Ahead of its release, In Colour was streamed on iTunes as a preview with album-spanning visuals that ‘reacted’ to each sound.[14] It was ultimately released on 29 May 2015 to widespread critical acclaim, debuting at number three on the UK Albums Chart and receiving nominations for the 2015 Mercury Prize and for Best Dance/Electronic Album at the 58th Grammy Awards. // Jamie xx composed the score for a ballet, Tree of Codes, commissioned by Manchester International Festival for its 2015 edition. Based on a novel of the same name by Jonathan Safran Foer, the ballet was choreographed by Wayne McGregor and had a set created by Olafur Eliasson. // In 2020, he released his first single in five years, “Idontknow”, which received positive to lukewarm reception from critics. He was credited on Tyler, the Creator’s 2021 album Call Me If You Get Lost as a co-producer on the track “RISE!”. // Jamie xx has worked on each of his The xx bandmates’ respective solo albums: he produced Oliver Sim’s Hideous Bastard (2022), and co-produced Romy’s Mid Air (2023).]

10:29 – Underwriting

10:30 – Interview with Diana Watts, Trish Price & Kevin King of Whim Productions

Diana Watts is originally from Manhattan, Kansas. She received her Bachelors in Science degree in Theatre at Kansas State University in 2013. Diana is a writer, director, actress, and organizer. Diana works as Marketing Copywriter & Editor for Centene Corporation. Diana served as Social Media Manager and Writer at Improv Nerd in Chicago, and has also worked at Indikon Media, United Airlines, Quantum Assembly, and The Fishtank Theatre in Kansas City. Diana volunteers for Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Diana also serves as a Board Members for Whim Productions, where she is making her directorial debut or Kissing in the Grocery Store. Her Whim Productions acting appearances include Boxed, Playing on the Periphery, Marriage Play, and Lesbians Definitely Not Lost in Space.

Diana Watts welcome to Wednesday MidDay Medley

Kevin King is originally from Topeka, Kansas. He studied at The University of Kansas, In 2011 Kevin founded Whim Productions where he serves as Producing Artistic Director of Whim Productions. He is a queer playwright based in KCMO and is a playwright-in-residence at the Midwest Dramatists Center, former playwright-in-residence in the Charlotte Street Foundation Studio Residency program, and a member of the Dramatists Guild. His short play The Swallows was selected for the 2019 William Inge Theater Festival New Play Lab. King’s work has also appeared in the Kansas City Fringe Festival,zaz (Whim Productions, 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019,2020), The Barn Players’ 6×10 Short Play festival (2018, 2019), Midwest Dramatists Conference (2018, 2019), One-Minute Play Festival (2016), a’s 12 Plays of Christmas (2014), and other festivals. His work ranges from campy to slice-of-life realism, portrayed through a quirky, queer lens. Kevin serves as intimacy coach and sound designer for Kissing in the Grocery Store.

Kevin King welcome to Wednesday MidDay Medley

Trish Price is making their Kansas City stage debut with 𝙆𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙂𝙧𝙤𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙚! Trish graduated from Missouri State University’s BFA Acting program. After moving and working as an actor in New York City, Trish is back in Kansas City and the KC theater community. Previous work includes 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘱𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘊𝘰𝘯𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘳, 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘉𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘌𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵, and national commercials (Swiffer, Etsy, YouTube Official). Trish is represented by Long Island Models

Trish Price welcome to Wednesday MidDay Medley

Diana Watts & Kevin King & Trish Price are joining us to share details about of Whim Productions about the world premiere of Claire Carson’s, KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE, a multimedia theater experience exploring queer identity, love, loss, and the quest for courage to live authentically. KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE runs Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, Feb 16, 2025 at Whim Space, 415 Prospect Ave, KCMO, in historic Pendleton Heights. For info visit: http://www.whimproductions.org.

Diana Watts is the Director of this show and Kevin King is Artistic Director of Whim Production.

KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE by Claire Carson (she/they) is a multimedia experience told through time shifts and movement. The story reminds us that coming out is often scary, even if your family is liberal. Carson describes the play as a “mix of humor, movement, magic, and poetry.” It is “for anyone who has ever battled themselves, grappled with their past, or yearned for a life filled with more joy, more honesty, and more room to grow.”

KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE runs Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, Feb 16, 2025 at Whim Space, 415 Prospect Ave, KCMO, in historic Pendleton Heights. For info visit: http://www.whimproductions.org.

Meet the Playwright! Claire Carson (she/they) is a Denver-based playwright, poet, and theatermaker. Previously produced work includes Hypochondria (Margo Jones Theatre), Shadow Woman (The Bathhouse Cultural Center), and Michelle with Wet Eyeballs, self-produced with friends in a transformed garage.

Claire’s work emphasizes collaboration, visual metaphor, and the strangeness of being alive. Claire describes Kissing in the Grocery Store as a “mix of humor, movement, magic and poetry.” This play is “for anyone who has ever battled themselves, grappled with their past, or yearned for a life filled with more joy, more honesty, and more room to grow.”

Whim Productions is excited to present the world premiere of Claire Carson’s Kissing in the Grocery Store, a multimedia theater experience about love, loss, and the quest for courage to live authentically.

ABOUT THE SHOW: The moon is in conjunction or something. You miss your ex-girlfriend, and you’re afraid to come out to your parents. You can read a self-help book, talk to a trusted friend, or be like Q and look to a YouTube Witch for a “letting go” spell.
Quinn, or Q, is a 20-something lesbian struggling to move on from their first queer relationship. Their ex ended the relationship because she couldn’t be with someone who hides their true self from their family. The breakup ignites a comical and poignant battle between Q’s inner voices, leading them to seek solace in a YouTube magic influencer.

KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE by Claire Carson is a multimedia experience told through time shifts and movement. The story reminds us that coming out is often scary, even if your family is liberal. Carson describes the play as a “mix of humor, movement, magic, and poetry.” It is “for anyone who has ever battled themselves, grappled with their past, or yearned for a life filled with more joy, more honesty, and more room to grow.”

Directed by Diana Watts (she/her), the production features Trish Price (they/them), Sandy Osborn (she/her), Adriana Randall (they/them), and Megan Reynolds (she/her). Lighting design is by Austin VanWinkle (he/him), scenic design by Austin Cecil (he/him), costumes by Marian McClellan (she/her) and Patricia Reed (she/her), sound design and intimacy choreography by Kevin King (he/him).

Kissing in the Grocery Store is presented at Whim Space (415 Prospect Ave, Kansas City, MO) in historic Pendleton Heights. For full details, visit whimproductions.org.

Dates: February 6-16
Ticket Information: https://our.show/whimproductions/kissing
General Admission – Advanced Tickets: $25 / Walk-Up: $28
Pay What You Whim pricing is available for some performances
Premium Seating: $30
VIP Seating: $40
.
Run Time: 90 minutes without intermission

Appropriate for Ages 16+
Contains some adult language and conversation about sex

Performance Details: Venue: Whim Space, 415 Prospect, Kansas City, MO 64124

Dates and Times:
Thursday, Feb 6th, 7:30 pm – “Pay What You Whim”
Friday, Feb 7th, 7:30 pm – “Pay What You Whim”
Saturday, Feb 8th, 7:30 pm
Sunday, Feb 9th, 3:00 pm
Monday, Feb 10th, 7:30 pm – “Pay What You Whim”
Thursday, Feb 13th, 7:30 pm
Friday, Feb 14th, 7:30 pm
Saturday, Feb 15th, 7:30 pm
Sunday, Feb 16th, 3:00 pm

Whim Productions, founded in 2011, creates challenging and evocative queer theater. Whim focuses on providing opportunities for LGBTQ+ theater artists to tell their own stories and share the diversity of queer experiences with Kansas City audiences.

Queer theater. Whimsical edge.

Meet the Director! Kissing in the Grocery Store marks Diana Watts’ (she/her) directorial debut, stepping outside her roles as an actor and Whim board member. Her Whim Productions acting appearances include Boxed, Playing on the Periphery, Marriage Play, and Lesbians Definitely Not Lost in Space.

Meet the Team! Artistic Director 𝗞𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗻 𝗞𝗶𝗻𝗴 founded Whim Productions in 2011 and has directed, written, and choreographed intimacy in many of our productions. He’s currently tackling the sound design and intimacy choreography for the world premiere of Kissing in the Grocery Store! Kevin’s passion for creating safe, evocative, and inclusive theatre shines in this production.

Diana Watts, Trish Price, and Kevin King thank you for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE runs Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, Feb 16, 2025 at Whim Space, 415 Prospect Ave, KCMO, in historic Pendleton Heights. For info visit: http://www.whimproductions.org.

10:49

We now sing more tracks from a new project from the non-profit Red Hot Organization, it is called, TRAИƧA a spiritual journey across eight chapters and 46 songs with over 100 artists contributing. The album spotlights many of the most daring, imaginative trans and non-binary artists working today. TRAИƧA reintroduces Sade Adu to the world with a loving song dedicated to her son, Izaak, a trans man. The culture-shifting ballad “Young Lion” debuts on this collection alongside Sam Smith and Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s historic reimagining of “Ever New.” More info at: https://redhot.org/

10:49

Sade Adu – “Young Lion”
from: TRAИƧA / Red Hot / November 22, 2024
[In 2016, on National Coming Out Day, Sade’s child, Izaak Theo Adu, came out as a transgender man. In September 2019, Izaak posted a message online, thanking his mother for her support through his transition. In the fall of 2024, Sade and the Red Hot Organization’s TRANSA project released “Young Lion”, a song dedicated to her son. // One of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken by the storied activist and music production non-profit Red Hot, TRAИƧA is a spiritual journey across eight chapters and 46 songs with over 100 artists contributing. The album spotlights the gifts of many of the most daring, imaginative trans and non-binary artists working today. // Dust Reid, who led production on Red Hot’s 2014 tribute to Arthur Russell, and Massima Bell, an artist and activist based in Los Angeles, began tracing the contours of what would become TRAИƧA together in 2021. The two producers originally met at a video shoot in upstate New York, and immediately bonded over their shared love of Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s music, as well as a common devotional connection to nature. // The passing of SOPHIE, the pathbreaking electronic producer who died in January 2021, galvanized the producers and focused their work. “We started talking about all the gifts that trans artists have been giving to the world, and wanted to create a Red Hot project that centered and celebrated those gifts,” says Reid. “We hoped to create a narrative that positions trans and non-binary people as leaders in our society insofar as the deep inner work they do to affirm who they are in our current climate. We felt this is something everybody should do. Whether you identify as trans or non-binary or otherwise, if you took the time to explore your gender, get in touch with the feeling side of yourself, maybe we would have a future oriented around values of community, collaboration, care, and healing.” // Bell and Reid began conceiving of the album as a spiritual journey in eight chapters, a mirror of the original eight-stripe rainbow pride flag. The narrative begins at the earliest awareness of consciousness; moves through awakening, trauma, and grief; and arrives at liberation and continual reinvention. “One thing trans people do all the time is turn grief into possibility,” says Bell. “Living under the ongoing Western binary system, trans people reveal maps of possibility for everyone. It’s something that we can all learn from – expanding the possibility of human life.” Each chapter begins with a “chapter track,” kicking off a collection of songs that speak to that chapter’s theme. // As the producers began inviting musicians to contribute to TRAИƧA, the political climate in the United States and across the world started to foment an acute reactionary streak. Legislation denying trans people the hard-won right to medically transition proliferated across the country. Book bans rained down on libraries, stamping shut crucial apertures into trans and queer lives. The necessity of TRAИƧA’s presence in the world started to crystallize. // “The stakes have never been higher,” notes Bell. “We’re seeing a rise in anti-trans hate and vitriol that is particularly being spewed in the United States. I am a trans person from Iowa, one of the states that signed into law a bill that prohibits access to gender-affirming care. It is clearly, materially, a terrifying time.” // TRAИƧA FEATURED ARTISTS:Adrianne Lenker * Ahya Simone * Alan Sparhawk (Low) * Allison Russell * Am Taylor * Anajah * Ana Roxanne * André 3000 * Anjimile * Arthur Baker * Asher White * AV María * Babehoven * Bartees Strange * Belina Rose * Benét * Beverly Glenn-Copeland * Bill Callahan * Blake Mills * Bloomsday * Calvin Lauber * Caroline Rose * Cassandra Croft * Cassandra Jenkins * Christian Lee Hutson * claire rousay * Clairo * CLARITY * Cole Pulice * Dave Longstreth * Devendra Banhart * Eileen Myles * Eli Winter * Elizabeth Glenn-Copeland * Ezra Furman * Faye Webster * Fleet Foxes * Frankie Cosmos * Gary Gunn * Gia Margaret * Green-House * Grouper * Hand Habits * Heart Shaped * Helado Negro * Hunter Schafer * Jamal Shakeri * Jay Dee Daugherty * Jayne County * Jeff Tweedy * Jlin * Joy Guidry * Julianna Barwick * Julie Byrne * Julien Baker * Kara Jackson * Kathi Wilcox * KB Brookins * Kelela * Laraaji * Laura Jane Grace * Lauren Auder * Lee Ranaldo * Lightning Bug * Lomelda * Lucy Liyou * Lynn Avery * Lyra Pramuk * L’Rain * Mary Lattimore * MIZU * Moor Mother * More Eaze * Moses Sumney * Nico Georis * Niecy Blues * Nina Keith * Nsámbu Za Suékama * NYC Trans Oral History Project * Pepper MaShay * Perfume Genius * Pharoah Sanders * Quinn Christopherson * Rachika Nayar * Sade Adu * Sam Smith * Sharon Van Etten * SKY * SOAK * Soft Rōnin * Sparkle Division * Taryn Blake Miller * Teddy Geiger * Time Wharp * Wendy & Lisa of the Revolution * Yaeji * Yaya Bey // Helen Folasade Adu was born on January 16, 1959 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. Her middle name, Folasade, means “crowned with wealth” in Yoruba. Her parents are Adebisi Adu, a Nigerian lecturer in economics of Yoruba background, and Anne Hayes, an English district nurse; they met in London, married in 1955, and moved to Nigeria. Sade was four years old when her parents separated. Hayes returned to England with Sade and her elder brother, Banji, to live with their maternal grandparents near Colchester, Essex. At age 11, Sade moved to Holland-on-Sea, Essex with her mother and brother. After completing her education at Clacton County High School and Colchester Institute at the age of 18, she moved to London and studied fashion design at Saint Martin’s School of Art. // Sade is a Nigerian-British singer, known as the lead vocalist of her band Sade. One of the most successful British female artists in history, she is often recognised as an influence on contemporary music. Her success in the music industry was recognised with the honour Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2002, and she was made Commander in the 2017 Birthday Honours. // She studied at Saint Martin’s School of Art in London and gained modest recognition as a fashion designer and part-time model before joining the band Pride in the early 1980s. After gaining attention as a performer, she formed the band Sade, and secured a recording contract with Epic Records in 1983. // A year later, the band released the album Diamond Life, which became one of the era’s best-selling albums and the best-selling debut by a British female vocalist. In July 1985, Sade was among the performers at the Live Aid charity concert at Wembley Stadium, and the next year, she appeared in the film Absolute Beginners. The band released their third album (Stronger Than Pride) in 1988, and a fourth album (Love Deluxe) in 1992. The band went on hiatus in 1996 after the birth of Sade’s child. // In 2005, Sade moved out to the British countryside, where she bought a run-down cottage to renovate. Sade rarely grants interviews.]

Sam Smith & Beverly Glenn-Copeland – “Ever New”
from: TRAИƧA / Red Hot / November 22, 2024
[Beverly Glenn-Copeland was born January 1944, and is an American-born Canadian singer-songwriter. His albums include Keyboard Fantasies (1986). Glenn-Copeland began publicly identifying as a trans man in 2002. // Glenn-Copeland was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to a musical family. As a child, Glenn-Copeland listened to his father play the music of Bach, Chopin, and Mozart on the piano, and heard his mother occasionally sing spirituals. // In 1961, Glenn-Copeland was one of the first black students to study at McGill University in Montreal. // Glenn-Copeland started his career as a folk singer incorporating jazz, classical, and blues elements. He also performed on albums by Ken Friesen, Bruce Cockburn, Gene Murtynec, Bob Disalle, and Kathryn Moses, and was a writer on Sesame Street. He spent twenty-five years entertaining children as a regular actor on Canadian children’s television show Mr. Dressup. // Glenn-Copeland’s 1986 electronic album Keyboard Fantasies, recorded using equipment including a Yamaha DX7 and a Roland TR-707, and other recordings were rediscovered and promoted by Japanese record collector Ryota Masuko in 2015. Before Glenn-Copeland’s gender transition was made public, Keyboard Fantasies was selected as one of the 70 greatest recordings by women by The Stranger. The album was named as the public vote winner of the Polaris Heritage Prize at the 2020 Polaris Music Prize. Keyboard Fantasies was remastered and reissued in February 2017 as Copeland Keyboard Fantasies by Invisible City Edition and re-released again on vinyl that same year on Séance Centre. // Other albums by Glenn-Copeland include Beverly Copeland (1970), Beverly Glenn-Copeland (1971), At Last! (1980), Primal Prayer (released under the pseudonym Phynix in 2004), and the career-spanning compilation Transmissions (2020). // Keyboard Fantasies: The Beverly Glenn-Copeland Story, a documentary directed by Posy Dixon, was released in 2019. // Planned 2020 international tours to Australia, the United Kingdom, and other European destinations were rescheduled to 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A fundraising campaign was initiated to help Glenn-Copeland and his wife after the loss of their house that resulted from these changes; the campaign raised over $90,000. In the same year, Glenn-Copeland created a prerecorded video performance of his song “Courage” for Buddies in Bad Times and CBC Gem’s online Queer Pride Inside show. // His 2023 album The Ones Ahead was a longlisted nominee for the 2024 Polaris Music Prize. // In 2024 Glenn was awarded an honorary doctorate from University of Toronto, and won the Joyce Warshow Lifetime Achievement Award from SAGE, an organization that focuses on advocacy and services for LGBTQ+ elders. // In 1973, while in Los Angeles, Glenn fell in love with the chanting at a local Soka Gakkai International meeting and has been a practicing Buddhist since the mid-1970s. // In September 2024, Glenn-Copeland shared that he has been diagnosed with dementia. // Samuel Frederick Smith was born May 19, 1992. Sam is an English singer and songwriter. In 2012, they[a] rose to prominence when they featured on Disclosure’s breakthrough single “Latch”, which peaked at number eleven on the UK Singles Chart. The following year, they featured on Naughty Boy’s single “La La La”, which became a number one single in the UK. // Smith’s debut studio album, In the Lonely Hour (2014), was released through Capitol Records UK and debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart. The album’s lead single, “Lay Me Down”, was released prior to “La La La”. The album’s second single, “Money on My Mind”, became their second number one single in the UK. Its third single, “Stay with Me”, was internationally successful, reaching number one in the UK and number two on the US Billboard Hot 100, while subsequent singles “I’m Not the Only One” and “Like I Can” reached the top ten in the UK. The album won four awards at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards, including Best Pop Vocal Album, Best New Artist, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and nominations for Album of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance. // Smith’s song “Writing’s on the Wall” served as the theme for the James Bond film Spectre (2015), and won Smith a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award for Best Original Song. Smith’s second studio album, The Thrill of It All (2017), debuted atop the UK and US album charts. The album’s lead single, “Too Good at Goodbyes”, reached number one in the UK and Australia and number four in the US. Following the 2018 single “Promises” (with Calvin Harris), which peaked at number one in the UK, Smith released “Dancing with a Stranger” (with Normani) in 2019, which peaked within the top ten in the UK and the US, also receiving a nomination for Song of the Year at the 2020 Brit Awards. The singles, along with “How Do You Sleep?”, would precede the release of their third studio album, Love Goes (2020). In 2022, Smith’s single “Unholy” (with Kim Petras), would become their first number one single in the US and won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. The song would precede their fourth album, Gloria (2023). // Smith’s numerous accolades include five Grammy Awards, three Brit Awards, three Billboard Music Awards, and an American Music Award, as well as a Golden Globe and an Academy Award. On the UK Albums Chart, In the Lonely Hour was the best-selling debut album of the 2010s and the sixth best-selling album of the decade, while collectively Smith’s albums spent the fourth-most weeks at number one in the 2010s, behind Ed Sheeran, Adele and Eminem. Smith is the first openly non-binary musician to both release a song that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and to win a Grammy Award.]

10:58 – Station ID

James Grauerholz – “Be That Way”
from: Life’s Too Good To Keep / Lotuspool Records / November 1, 2024
[Written in 1993. Recorded by Brad Koehler, at Hairball IV Studio, Lawrence, Kansas. / James Grauerholz writes: “I wrote this for Matt Schepis, who was my boyfriend in 1993. He is now almost fifty and we’re good friends. Other players: Mark Henning of Zoom, guitar fills and vocal; Scott Lovern of the Lonesome Wranglers on keyboards; Bill Belzer of Mongol Beach Party on drums; Darren Welch of Dracomagnet on bass guitar. For this one session we were Draco Zoom Mongol Ramblers. The song was first released on Tim/Ker records out of Portland, Oregon on the “Cough It Up: The Hairball Story” compilation.” // Mark Henning writes in the album’s liner notes: To anyone in the Art, Literary & Music world, James has long been known as ‘The Burroughs Guy’. From 1974 until William Burroughs death in 1997, James has handled the business of William S. Burroughs Communications, acting as his manager, bibliographer, editor, literary executor and companion. To this day he continues to helm the business of Burroughs. What has been little-known up until now is that James has led a double life as an accomplished musician and songwriter with an extensive body of work stretching back from the late 1960s to the present. In fact, music was his first passion. // James set out to be a singer-songwriter before fate led to his calling with William S. Burroughs and despite the demands of his literary responsibilities, he continued to write music as a creative outlet. Over the years James witnessed and has been an important figure in many extraordinary musical eras. He was referred to as the ‘Zelig of Punk Rock’, having been part of a small coterie who helped kick-start the CBGBs scene in NYC from 1974 through the end of the decade. If you haven’t read the book ‘Please Kill Me’ by Legs McNeil and Gillian McCain, do yourself a favor and pick it up. James’ stories are among the best in it. His ‘mates’ during that time were the likes of Lester Bangs, Howard Brookner, Robert Palmer and Robert Quine -to name only a few. // The Zelig comparison is dead accurate, but it goes far beyond Punk Rock. James was there for the Midwestern Country-Rock explosion of the early 1970s. The legendary oral history ‘Cows Are Freaky When They Look At You’ paints a hilariously warped picture of the people in James orbit during those K.C./Lawrence years prior to him moving to NYC. He was there for the AOR singer-songwriter movement of the late 1970s, mixing his songs with Boz Skaggs in San Francisco. He was at the Hacienda in Manchester when Factory Records ruled the scene and where New Order, The Smiths and The Fall took the world by storm. He was around when New Wave and Hardcore emerged AND he was a steadfast contributor to the evolution of underground music of the early 1990s. In Lawrence, KS where James has lived since the early 1980s, and where Zoom and Lotuspool Records evolved, James lent his opinions, his studio, his gear, his chops and his time, unselfishly on innumerable occasions to help fledgling bands get a leg up. // Through all of these eras, James’ voice as a songwriter has held its own piece of real estate. Each of the twenty-two tracks represented on this double album bear a style that is distinctly his own, both lyrically and compositionally. It is worth adding that James is one hell of an accomplished guitar player too. Assembling this collection was no easy task, despite James’ impeccable documentation of his own catalog. Tapes were baked, no stone was left unturned and several ‘new’ discoveries were made that hadn’t made their way into the master list. // What you have here is a collection of songs that span thirty years, or as James so aptly puts it ‘My Life In Four Acts’ -with each side of the two LPs representing an Act. Though much of the material could easily be considered Great American Songbook in style (hooks everywhere, turns of phrase that remain stuck in your head, broad themes of love, loss & loneliness…), there is also a deeply personal and distinctly Queer element to the songs. One must not forget that back in the 1970s hardly anyone was doing this. In fact, James may have created his very own lane. There were Queer outsider artists like Tom Wilson doing more ‘camp’ numbers, but NO ONE was doing pop-type radio songs represented here. Some of the songs could even qualify as a new genre: Gay Yacht Rock. One must also wonder whether, despite the appeal factor, maybe James just wanted to keep the songs for himself as a log of his own personal journey? // You, the listener can decide for yourself. We hope you enjoy these four acts as much as we did while assembling them. For me they just keep getting better the more I listen.” – Mark Henning (Zoom, National Trust, Voice of Action)]

11:01 – Interview with Chris Garibaldi & Mark Henning

Mark Henning was born on South Side of Chicago in 1970 into a musical family. His Grandfather was a Music Educator and Big Band Leader of the Leo Henning Orchestra. Mark was initiated into his music and started playing guitar at the age of 8 and then saxophone and electric guitar and started his first band The Locals. Mark met Chris Garibaldi when he moved to his neighborhood. In high school Mark discovered the underground music in Chicago, and played basement Hardcore shows. Mark went to University Of Kansas in 1988 where he majored in Advertising and got my undergrad B.S.J. from the William Allen White School Of Journalism. With Chris Cosgrove and Steve Tubbart and Jeremy Sidener the band Zoom was created. Mark met James Grauerholz and William Burroughs in 1992. They were label-mates on T/K Records out of Portland but all lived in Lawrence. Mark played and recorded with James. Mark moved back to Chicago in 1995, ad started playing in The National Trust, recording two albums on Thrill Jockey. Mark worked at Reckless Records in Chicago from 1996-2000 and also Dusty Groove Records. Mark started a successful D.J. night at Danny’s in Chicago that continued for 20 years until 2017. Mark moved to Brooklyn in 2000 and managed Dubway Recording Studios in Manhattan, worked and lived in New Orleans and eventually moved back to Chicago in 2006 to focus on music with the National Trust. Mark toured Europe, bought a bungalow on the West Side Chicago, worked for a commercial photography house, had a son name Leo in 2008. Mark continuea to write. He put out a 45” with Fred Schneider and Elvira on Jack White’s Third Man label in 2013-14. Started a three piece called VoA and released an album on Lotuspool in 2018. On 2019 he started work on the James Grauerholz Album until it was released in November of 2024.

Mark Henning thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Chris Garibaldi is the co-founder of Lotuspool Records. He also is lead singer, guitarist and occasional trombonist for the band Suneaters who released their 7th album, the 13 track album, Suneaters IV: Absinthe Makes The Heart Grow Fingers, on September 23, 2022. Lotuspool Records, was born in 1992. Chris writes “We started the label when we were very young, and the bands that were on it were very young, too,” he tells me. “Back then, you could put out an indie record and get a lot of attention and press. At that time, there was a lot of support for indie music. Around 2000, Lotuspool went on an unofficial hiatus. The label was never inactive, but Garibaldi spent most of 2000s working for companies in Los Angeles. In 2011, a Garibaldi relocated to Parkville, he and Scott Hartley — bassist in the Suneaters — brought a new vision for Lotuspool Records. He label has been the moe for releases for Heidi Lynne Gluck, The Bump Band, Bully Pulpit, The Whips, Poster Children, Zoom, Voice of Action, June Henry, Hollow Body, Chris Cardwel, and many others This year the label is celebrating 33 years!

Chris Garibaldi, thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Chris Garibaldi and Mark Henning join us to share details about the new Lotuspool release: James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep, a 21-track, double vinyl album of the recorded songs of James Grauerholz. Grauerholz has long been known as ‘The Burroughs Guy’. From 1974 until William Burroughs death in 1997, James handled the business of William S. Burroughs Communications, acting as his manager, bibliographer, editor, literary executor and companion. To this day he continues to helm the business of Burroughs. What has been little-known up until now is that James has led a double life as an accomplished musician and songwriter with an extensive body of work stretching back from the late 1960s to the present. In fact, music was his first passion. More info at: http://www.lotuspool.com

Chris Garibaldi and Mark Henning, thanks for being with us on WMM

Lotus Pool Records presents…James Grauerholz Life’s Too Good To Keep Album liners notes fro, Mark Henning:

Mark Henning first met James in 1992 when his band Zoom was being courted by Tim Kerr Records of Portland, Oregon. Zoom had been introduced to the label through Greg Sage of Wipers fame, who was Producing what would be our final record, Helium Octipede.

Coincidentally James and William Burroughs were both signed to Tim Kerr Records and we all happened to live in Lawrence, KS. James and I met up at a Mexican restaurant near 19th & Mass St. and discussed the music biz over enchiladas. James was incredibly supportive of our move to join the label, gave me a boatload of wise advice and a long friendship ensued.

To anyone in the Art, Literary & Music world, James has long been known as ‘The Burroughs Guy’. From 1974 until William Burroughs death in 1997, James has handled the business of William S. Burroughs Communications, acting as his manager, bibliographer, editor, literary executor and companion. To this day he continues to helm the business of Burroughs. What has been little-known up until now is that James has led a double life as an accomplished musician and songwriter with an extensive body of work stretching back from the late 1960s to the present. In fact, music was his first passion.

James Grauerholz was referred to as the ‘Zelig of Punk Rock’

James set out to be a singer-songwriter before fate led to his calling with William S. Burroughs and despite the demands of his literary responsibilities, he continued to write music as a creative outlet. Over the years James witnessed and has been an important figure in many extraordinary musical eras. He was referred to as the ‘Zelig of Punk Rock’, having been part of a small coterie who helped kick-start the CBGBs scene in NYC from 1974 through the end of the decade. If you haven’t read the book ‘Please Kill Me’ by Legs McNeil and Gillian McCain, do yourself a favor and pick it up. James’ stories are among the best in it. His ‘mates’ during that time were the likes of Lester Bangs, Howard Brookner, Robert Palmer and Robert Quine -to name only a few.

The Zelig comparison is dead accurate, but it goes far beyond Punk Rock. James was there for the Midwestern Country-Rock explosion of the early 1970s. The legendary oral history ‘Cows Are Freaky When They Look At You’ paints a hilariously warped picture of the people in James orbit during those K.C./Lawrence years prior to him moving to NYC. He was there for the AOR singer-songwriter movement of the late 1970s, mixing his songs with Boz Skaggs in San Francisco. He was at the Hacienda in Manchester when Factory Records ruled the scene and where New Order, The Smiths and The Fall took the world by storm. He was around when New Wave and Hardcore emerged AND he was a steadfast contributor to the evolution of underground music of the early 1990s. In Lawrence, KS where James has lived since the early 1980s, and where Zoom and Lotuspool Records evolved, James lent his opinions, his studio, his gear, his chops and his time, unselfishly on innumerable occasions to help fledgling bands get a leg up.

“New York City Lullabye “ – Written in 1974. Recorded by James Grauerholz on stereo cassette tape in Aprik 1974 while William slept – late one night at 452 Broadway, New York City. / James Grauerholz writes: “William S. Burroughs, my father and lover for 23 years until his death on August 2, 1997. He had been my favorite writer since 1966, and when I finally met William, I immediately decided ‘Life’s to good to keep.’”

11:13

James Grauerholz – “New York City Lullabye”
from: Life’s Too Good To Keep / Lotuspool Records / November 1, 2024
[Written in 1974. Recorded by James Grauerholz on stereo cassette tape in Aprik 1974 while William slept – late one night at 452 Broadway, New York City.. / James Grauerholz writes: “William S. Burroughs, my father and lover for 23 years until his death on August 2, 1997. He had been my favorite writer since 1966, and when I finally met William, I immediately decided ‘Life’s to good to keep.’”]

11:16

11:16 – More Interview with Chris Garibaldi & Mark Henning

We are talking with Chris Garibaldi and Mark Henning about the new Lotuspool release: James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep, a 21-track, double vinyl album of the recorded songs of James Grauerholz. Released Noveber 1, 2024. More info at: http://www.lotuspool.com

Chris Garibaldi and Mark Henning, thanks for being with us on WMM

Single Release Dates:
10/4/24: Be That Way
10/11/24: New York City Lullabye
10/18/24: Heaven’s Radio
10/25/24: The Intersection Of You And Me

Grauerholz has long been known as ‘The Burroughs Guy’. From 1974 until William Burroughs death in 1997, James handled the business of William S. Burroughs Communications, acting as his manager, bibliographer, editor, literary executor and companion. To this day he continues to helm the business of Burroughs.

What has been little-known up until now is that James has led a double life as an accomplished musician and songwriter with an extensive body of work stretching back from the late 1960s to the present. In fact, music was his first passion. More info at: http://www.lotuspool.com

Through all of these eras, James’ voice as a songwriter has held its own piece of real estate. Each of the twenty-two tracks represented on this double album bear a style that is distinctly his own, both lyrically and compositionally. It is worth adding that James is one hell of an accomplished guitar player too. Assembling this collection was no easy task, despite James’ impeccable documentation of his own catalog. Tapes were baked, no stone was left unturned and several ‘new’ discoveries were made that hadn’t made their way into the master list.

What you have here is a collection of songs that span thirty years, or as James so aptly puts it ‘My Life In Four Acts’ -with each side of the two LPs representing an Act. Though much of the material could easily be considered Great American Songbook in style (hooks everywhere, turns of phrase that remain stuck in your head, broad themes of love, loss & loneliness…), there is also a deeply personal and distinctly Queer element to the songs. One must not forget that back in the 1970s hardly anyone was doing this. In fact, James may have created his very own lane. There were Queer outsider artists like Tom Wilson doing more ‘camp’ numbers, but NO ONE was doing pop-type radio songs represented here. Some of the songs could even qualify as a new genre: Gay Yacht Rock. One must also wonder whether, despite the appeal factor, maybe James just wanted to keep the songs for himself as a log of his own personal journey?
You, the listener can decide for yourself. We hope you enjoy these four acts as much as we did while assembling them. For me they just keep getting better the more I listen.

Mark Henning (Zoom, National Trust, Voice of Action)

Chris: “One of the mistakes we made as kids running the label was that we made a lot of short-term decisions,” Garibaldi says. “We didn’t have foresight. We were too concerned about paychecks and debt. And now it’s like, ‘Let’s take the thing that we do well, which is to foster interesting music, and not worry about the little things.’ Let’s see if we might be able to figure out something that might make the music bigger. That’s the goal.”

“Spring is Just Around the Corner ” – Written in 1998. Recorded by James Grauerholz, solo piano and vocal demo to eight-track ADAT master at hairball IV Studios in Lawrence. / James Grauerholz writes: “ From my demos for my unfinished TATTOOS musical theatre piece, 1998-2005

Chris Garibaldi and Mark Henning, thanks for being with us on WMM

The new Lotuspool release: James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep, a 21-track, double vinyl album of the recorded songs of James Grauerholz was released November 1, 2024 More info at: http://www.lotuspool.com

11:27

James Grauerholz – “Spring is Just Around the Corner “
from: Life’s Too Good To Keep / Lotuspool Records / November 1, 2024
[Written in 1998. Recorded by James Grauerholz, solo piano and vocal demo to eight-track ADAT master at hairball IV Studios in Lawrence. / James Grauerholz writes: “ From my demos for my unfinished TATTOOS musical theatre piece, 1998-2005]

11:30 – Underwriting

Daniel Gum – “Silvergirl”
from: The Great Conjunction / Manor Records / February 7, 2025
[All songs written/performed by Daniel Gum (BMI), production/engineering: Mike Crawford & Daniel Gum, mixing: Daniel Gum, bass: Joel Stratton, drums/percussion: Micah Ritchie. With Joel Stratton (piano on 1, baritone guitar on 2), Wills Van Doorn (slide guitar on 3), Brandon Bray (lead guitar on 6), Cole Crawford (piano on 10), Devon Teran (pedal steel on 2), Evan Herd (writing for drums on 7), Rachel Cionitti (bgvs on 1-6, 8), mastering: Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering, artwork/lettering: Daniel Gum]

[Daniel Gum plays an Album Release show for The Great Conjunction on Friday February 21, ay 9:00 pm at The Ship 1221 Union Ave, KCMO with Fullbloods and Fake Italian.]

11:35 – Interview with Daniel Gum

Daniel Gum joins us to share details about his new 10-track album THE GREAT CONJUNCTION to be released on February 7, 2025 on Manor Records. Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS. Since the age of 12, Daniel has been writing and recording songs. He released his 10-song album REORIENT on July 31, 2015. He released his electronic pop EP, I’M NOT DEAD on October 25, 2017, and released the acoustic, 3-track EP, MOON on December 7 2018. Daniel Gum was signed to Manor Records in the spring of 2020. Channeling the likes of Elliott Smith and Andy Shauf he released his 12-track album, THIRTEEN on October 30, 2020, co-produced with Mike Crawford. On September 10, 2021 Daniel Gum released the single “Wolverine” with Rachel Cionitti on vocals & Peter Beatty on lap steel. On October 21, 2022 Daniel released a cover of Big Star’s “Thirteen,” and on December 9, 2022 he released a cover of The Beatles “Julia” both with Joel Stratton on bass, Micah Ritchie on drums, and Evan Herd on drums. On January 24, 2024, Daniel Gum released “Sophia” / “Don’t I Know”. On December 13, 2024, he released the 4-track EP, MET YOU TOO SOON. On January 10, 2025 he released the 5-track EP, COWBOY SONG. Daniel Gum joined us on WMM on November 11, 2020. More info at: http://www.manorrecords.com

Daniel Gum plays an Album Release show for The Great Conjunction on Friday February 21, ay 9:00 pm at The Ship 1221 Union Ave, KCMO with Fullbloods and Fake Italian.

Daniel Gum Thanks for being with us on WMM

Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS.

Since the age of 12, Daniel has been writing and recording songs.

THE GREAT CONJUNCTION to be released on February 7, 2025 on Manor Records.

The Great Conjunction on Manor Records released February 7, 2025. All songs written/performed by Daniel Gum (BMI), production/engineering: Mike Crawford & Daniel Gum, mixing: Daniel Gum, mastering: Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering, artwork/lettering: Daniel Gum

bass: Joel Stratton,
drums/percussion: Micah Ritchie
with Joel Stratton (piano on 1, baritone guitar on 2),
Wills Van Doorn (slide guitar on 3)
Brandon Bray (lead guitar on 6)
Cole Crawford (piano on 10)
Devon Teran (pedal steel on 2)
Evan Herd (writing for drums on 7)
Rachel Cionitti (bgvs on 1-6, 8),]
He released his 10-song album REORIENT on July 31, 2015.

He released his electronic pop EP, I’M NOT DEAD on October 25, 2017,

and released the acoustic, 3-track EP, MOON on December 7 2018.

Daniel Gum was signed to Manor Records in the spring of 2020.

Channeling the likes of Elliott Smith and Andy Shauf he released his 12-track album, THIRTEEN on October 30, 2020, co-produced with Mike Crawford.

On September 10, 2021 Daniel Gum released the single “Wolverine” with Rachel Cionitti on vocals & Peter Beatty on lap steel.

On October 21, 2022 Daniel released a cover of Big Star’s “Thirteen,” and on December 9, 2022 he released a cover of The Beatles “Julia” both with Joel Stratton on bass, Micah Ritchie on drums, and Evan Herd on drums.

On January 24, 2024, Daniel Gum released “Sophia” / “Don’t I Know”.

On December 13, 2024, he released the 4-track EP, MET YOU TOO SOON.

On January 10, 2025 he released the 5-track EP, COWBOY SONG. More info at: http://www.manorrecords.com

On December 13, 2024, he released the 4-track EP, MET YOU TOO SOON. On January 10, 2025 he released the 5-track EP, COWBOY SONG.

Here’s what Daniel had to say about this track: “This song was written reflecting on a past relationship—thinking things probably could have worked out if we met 5 years later than we did. Or maybe they wouldn’t have.. but I’ll never know. This song is a part of a series of singles leading up to my second album. I hope you enjoy the chord progressions and slide guitar especially”.

11:43

Daniel Gum – “Met You Too Soon”
from: Met You Too Soon – EP / Manor Records / December 13, 2024
[Here’s what Daniel had to say about this track: “This song was written reflecting on a past relationship—thinking things probably could have worked out if we met 5 years later than we did. Or maybe they wouldn’t have.. but I’ll never know. This song is a part of a series of singles leading up to my second album. I hope you enjoy the chord progressions and slide guitar especially”. // 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]

[Daniel Gum plays an Album Release show for The Great Conjunction on Friday February 21, ay 9:00 pm at The Ship 1221 Union Ave, KCMO with Fullbloods and Fake Italian.]

11:46 – More Interview with Daniel Gum

Daniel Gum joins us to share details about his new 10-track album THE GREAT CONJUNCTION to be released on February 7, 2025 on Manor Records. Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS. Since the age of 12, Daniel has been writing and recording songs. More info at: http://www.manorrecords.com

Daniel Gum Thanks for being with us on WMM

Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS who has been active since 2017—releasing a couple EPs before putting out his debut album ‘Thirteen’ in 2020. In 2021 he released a one-off single and music video for his song “The Wolverine”, and in 2022 a cover of Big Star’s “Thirteen” and The Beatles’ “Julia”. In addition to working with his band on his solo projects, Daniel has worked with other local groups—playing bass and engineering for the band Pillow (a post-punk/shoegaze group) and playing drums behind singer-songwriter Chloe Jacobson—as well as producing some of her music. Although Gum has been writing songs since he was 12, he has doubled down on songwriting in the last couple of years—most notably writing over 60 songs in preparation for his LP debut. 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. He is currently working on writing and recording his next 2 albums.

Daniel had great response from his album ‘Thirteen’—being featured on multiple Spotify Playlists such as Spotify Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds Indie & Fresh Finds Rock. And he was named artist of the week in November 2020 by Kansas City radio station and NPR affiliate 90.9 The Bridge. In 2022, his cover of “Thirteen” by Big Star was placed on New Commute’s Spotify Playlist.

Here’s what reviewers had to say about Daniel’s album ‘Thirteen’:

“Gum has an obvious knack for turning his pain into something elegant, drifting from cautious sparseness to subdued urgency — with a folk backbeat, twinkling pedal steel and reverb-drenched undertones. It’s reminiscent of Elliott Smith, whose music Gum found a close kinship with.” – Michelle Bacon of 90.9 the Bridge (NPR)

“Daniel Gum’s Thirteen feels like the soundtrack to figuring out life in your twenties– a portrait of transition, reflection, and gratefulness (with a hint of cynicism). The album shifts back and forth from optimism to mellow reflection, finding a sweet spot for introspection somewhere between despondence and joy . . . While the record is full of deeply personal and honest reflections of Gum’s young adult life, I think everyone who listens can create their own internal universe based around the Andrews, Marys, and Sarahs of their own life.” – Coco Lashar, Manor Records blog

[Daniel Gum plays an Album Release show for The Great Conjunction on Friday February 21, ay 9:00 pm at The Ship 1221 Union Ave, KCMO with Fullbloods and Fake Italian.]

THE GREAT CONJUNCTION to be released on February 7, 2025 on Manor Records. Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS. Since the age of 12, Daniel has been writing and recording songs.

Daniel Gum joined us on WMM on November 11, 2020.

11:54

Daniel Gum – “Cowboy Song”
from: The Great Conjunction / Manor Records / February 7, 2025
[All songs written/performed by Daniel Gum (BMI), production/engineering: Mike Crawford & Daniel Gum, mixing: Daniel Gum, bass: Joel Stratton, drums/percussion: Micah Ritchie. With Joel Stratton (piano on 1, baritone guitar on 2), Wills Van Doorn (slide guitar on 3), Brandon Bray (lead guitar on 6), Cole Crawford (piano on 10), Devon Teran (pedal steel on 2), Evan Herd (writing for drums on 7), Rachel Cionitti (bgvs on 1-6, 8), mastering: Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering, artwork/lettering: Daniel Gum]

[Daniel Gum plays an Album Release show for The Great Conjunction on Friday February 21, ay 9:00 pm at The Ship 1221 Union Ave, KCMO with Fullbloods and Fake Italian.]

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

NEXT WEEK, on February 12 we play more New & MidCoastal Releases. At 10:30am we welcome Ross Brown who shares all the details about the new Fullbloods album PLAYING IT SAFE, to be released March 7, 2025. At 11:00am the band Run With It returns to WMM, just before their LIVE on-air concert on MidCoast LIVE on Friday, February 14 at NOON, AND at 11:30 Nathan Reusch joins us to talk about the KC Synth collective.

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

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

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

Show #1081

WMM presents Chris Garibaldi & Mark Henning on James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep + Daniel Gum + Diana Watts & Kevin King of Whim Productions

Posted on February 1, 2025 by Mark Manning

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

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

WMM presents Chris Garibaldi & Mark Henning on James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep + Daniel Gum + Diana Watts & Kevin King of Whim Productions

Mark spins more New & MidCoastal Releases from: James Grauerholz, Kadesh Flow, Religion of Heartbreak, Dandelion Lakewood, Daniel Gum, Jamie xx & Nia Archives, Fontaines D.C., and Cymande. We’ll also play more tracks from a new project from the non-profit Red Hot, and TRAИƧA a spiritual journey across eight chapters and 46 songs with over 100 artists contributing. The album spotlights many of the most daring, imaginative trans and non-binary artists working today. TRAИƧA reintroduces Sade Adu to the world with a loving song dedicated to her son, Izaak, a trans man. The culture-shifting ballad “Young Lion” debuts on this collection alongside Sam Smith and Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s historic reimagining of “Ever New.” More info at: https://redhot.org/

At 10:30 we’ll talk with Diana Watts & Kevin King of Whim Productions about the world premiere of Claire Carson’s, KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE, a multimedia theater experience exploring queer identity, love, loss, and the quest for courage to live authentically. Diana Watts is the Director of this show and Kevin King is Artistic Director of Whim Production. KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE by Claire Carson (she/they) is a multimedia experience told through time shifts and movement. The story reminds us that coming out is often scary, even if your family is liberal. Carson describes the play as a “mix of humor, movement, magic, and poetry.” It is “for anyone who has ever battled themselves, grappled with their past, or yearned for a life filled with more joy, more honesty, and more room to grow.” KISSING IN THE GROCERY STORE runs Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, Feb 16, 2025 at Whim Space, 415 Prospect Ave, KCMO, in historic Pendleton Heights. For info visit: http://www.whimproductions.org.

At 11:00am Chris Garibaldi co-founder of Lotuspool Records and Mark Henning of the bands Zoom, National Trust, Voice of Action, share details about the new Lotuspool release: James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep, a 21-track, double vinyl album of the recorded songs of James Grauerholz. Grauerholz has long been known as ‘The Burroughs Guy’. From 1974 until William Burroughs death in 1997, James handled the business of William S. Burroughs Communications, acting as his manager, bibliographer, editor, literary executor and companion. To this day he continues to helm the business of Burroughs. What has been little-known up until now is that James has led a double life as an accomplished musician and songwriter with an extensive body of work stretching back from the late 1960s to the present. In fact, music was his first passion. This new collection of songs span thirty years, or as James so aptly puts it ‘My Life In Four Acts’ – with each side of the two lps representing an Act. Though much of the material could easily be considered Great American Songbook, there is also a deeply personal and distinctly Queer element to the songs. One must not forget that back in the 1970s hardly anyone was doing this. In fact, James may have created his very own lane. More info at: http://www.lotuspool.com

At 11:30 Daniel Gum shares details about his new 10-track album THE GREAT CONJUNCTION to be released on February 7, 2025 on Manor Records. Daniel Gum is a singer-songwriter based out of Kansas City, KS. Since the age of 12, Daniel has been writing and recording songs. He released his 10-song album REORIENT on July 31, 2015. He released his electronic pop EP, I’M NOT DEAD on October 25, 2017, and released the acoustic, 3-track EP, MOON on December 7 2018. Daniel Gum was signed to Manor Records in the spring of 2020. Channeling the likes of Elliott Smith and Andy Shauf he released his 12-track album, THIRTEEN on October 30, 2020, co-produced with Mike Crawford. On September 10, 2021 Daniel Gum released the single “Wolverine” with Rachel Cionitti on vocals & Peter Beatty on lap steel. On October 21, 2022 Daniel released a cover of Big Star’s “Thirteen,” and on December 9, 2022 he released a cover of The Beatles “Julia” both with Joel Stratton on bass, Micah Ritchie on drums, and Evan Herd on drums. On January 24, 2024, Daniel Gum released “Sophia” / “Don’t I Know”. On December 13, 2024, he released the 4-track EP, MET YOU TOO SOON. On January 10, 2025 he released the 5-track EP, COWBOY SONG. Daniel Gum joined us on WMM on November 11, 2020. More info at: http://www.manorrecords.com

On your local radio dial 90.1 FM or
STREAMING LIVE at: kkfi.org

Show #1081

WMM Playlist from January 29, 2025

Posted on January 30, 2025 by Mark Manning

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

Wednesday, January 29, 2025

WMM presents Malek Azrael & Rock is Black + Julie Bennett Hume + Doug Hitchcock

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

Σtella – “Adagio”
from: Adagio / Sub Pop Records / March 7, 2025
[On April 4th, Greek Artist Σtella (pronounced Stella) will release her mesmerizing new record Adagio from Sub Pop. Adagio is a pop record that feels like a warm blanket; it swaddles its listeners with nylon-string guitars, featherlight percussion, psychedelic keyboards, and staccato drums. Written and recorded over the span of five years with a consortium of international collaborators, including !!!’s Rafael Cohen and British songwriter Gabriel Stebbing, Adagio is a 27-minute meditation on love and desire, rest, and time. The album was produced by Σtella and mixed by Edmund Irwin-Singer. Though the bulk of it is sung in English, as all her records have been, Σtella also delivers her first two songs in Greek, “Omorfo Mou,” and a cover of a 1969 cult classic of the Greek New Wave, Litsa Sakellariou’s “Ta Vimata.”]

Ivory Blue – “Rhythm of the Radio”
from: “Rhythm of the Radio” – Single / IVORY BLUE / January 31, 2025
[Written and dedicated to RADIO STATIONS, DJs all over the world. What IVORY says about this song: “I really wanted a song to express how scared I was for the future. But I also wanted a positive message to lift myself up. I realized in the process of writing it that this song was getting me through my emotions and I felt that all music really does just that. It helps us in our darkest times. This song is officially dedicated to all the radio stations that continually change people’s lives through the power of music and to the artists that continue to write out their deepest personal experiences through their own ideas. Let’s make the future a unifying happy place for all!” // IVORY BLUE released the single “Exiled” on November 29, 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, “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 WMM’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 the single “Starlit Love Child” on Oct. 28, 2022, “Red Light” on July 29, 2022. // IVORY BLUE released their full length debut album COMPOUND LOVE on Feb. 25, 2022. COMPOUND LOVE was in the Top 10 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 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’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 with The Band That Fell to earth, Boulevardia, 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. In 2011, Ivory settled in the Kansas City, MO area. During the past 10 years Ivory came out as “Non-Binary Transgender”, and then later as Trans-Female. // 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. More info at: http://www.ivorybluemusic.com]

Heath Church – “Sacred Talks”
from: “Sacred Talks” – Single / Heath Church / January 3, 2025
[Heath Church writes that, “Sacred Talks reflects on the fading art of deep, meaningful conversation. I wrote this song because I wanted to encourage connection in a disconnected world. You know that moment when you put yourself out there in a friendship for the first time and open up about something really personal? This song is about that moment and vulnerable, healing, conversations.” // Heath Church is an American singer-songwriter from KC who primarily plays indie-folk music. Heath Church grew up in Blue Springs, Missouri and performs all over the metropolitan area. His style is inspired by Elliott Smith, John Prine, Rivers Cuomo, and The Smiths. Many of his songs include intimate vocals, poetic lyrics, and warm acoustic guitar tracks. His lyrics speak poetically about his own life, losses, struggles and intimate moments. Heath enjoys playing music in smaller, intimate venues and interacting with his audiences. In the last four years Heath has released four 5-song EPs and eleven singles. More info at: http://www.heathchurchmusic.com]

Heath Church Discography

Keep the Pretty Ones Away – Single – March 29, 2024
Magic Hangover Cure – 5-Song EP – October 28, 2022
Kamikaze – Single – October 28, 2022
Mystery to Me – Single – February 5, 2021
Freefall – Single – November 27, 2020
Cosmic Love – 5-Song EP – September 18, 2020
Back to Brazil – Single – August 14, 2020
The Stranger – Single – July 10, 2020
Echoes of You – Single – May 8, 2020
Extra Pain – Single – November 18, 2019
Chemical Optometry – 5-song EP – June 14, 2019
All Messed Up – Single – December 7, 2018
Breaking Even – Single – April 6, 2018
The Things I’ve Tried – 5-song EP – December 23, 2017

Benjamin Booker – “SHOW AND TELL”
from: Lower / Fire Next Time Records / January 24, 2025
[Third full length album from Benjamin Booker was born Benjamin Roderick Evans on June 14, 1989. He is an American musician, singer, songwriter and guitarist. He cites The Gun Club, Blind Willie Johnson and T. Rex as influences. His music was described by the Chicago Tribune as “a raw brand of blues/boogie/soul,” by The Independent as “frenzied guitar-strumming and raw, soulful vocals that are hair-raising in intensity” and by Spin as “bright, furious, explosive garage rock.” // Benjamin Booker was born in Virginia Beach, Virginia. His family relocated to Tampa, Florida, where he attended all-ages DIY punk shows as a teenager. He attended Orange Grove Middle School, a magnet school for the performing arts, followed by Hillsborough High School, where he studied in the International Baccalaureate Program. He then attended the University of Florida in Gainesville, studying journalism with intentions of going into music journalism. After college, he moved to New Orleans to work for a non-profit organization and began playing shows. He self-released the four-track EP Waiting Ones in 2012, a collection of “low-fi blues-influenced folk-punk recordings and handclap percussion” that gained the attention of music blog Aquarium Drunkard. The track “Have You Seen My Son” eventually landed on Sirius XM satellite radio. In 2013, he began touring as an electric duo and signed with ATO Records to produce his debut album.]

Ayron Alexander – “Lucky”
from: “Lucky” – Single / Ayron Plummer Music / January 19, 2025
[Originally from Virginia, Ayron was born from the flames of sultry sound and raised in the warm arms of the treble clef.// In his younger years, Ayron started off in Church like all great singers do before soon moving to choirs outside of the general praise spectrum; from Show to Chamber Choir! // Later, after leaving his hometown and moving to Columbia, MO, Ayron became a member of a Christian Rock band and one of five singers of Just the Five of Us. // It wasn’t until the departure from the band that Ayron realized the sound and style he was looking for and wanting was something completely different from what he had been giving the crowds. // Now, considered a Neo-Soul Artist and living right in the heart of KC, Ayron wows his audience with his smooth voice and awesome stage presence. Ayron believes that music, no matter the genre, can heal a soul and bring love and life to anyone, which is why he sings everything! // Quotes: “Music is the gateway to the soul, living it is the key that unlocks the gate.” // “Give me a note and I’ll compose you a song. Give me a song and I’ll sing with you till my vocal chords are burning with agony.”]

The MGDs – “Hold On”
from: Hold On / The MGDs / January 11, 2025
[1st single (released Jan. 6, 2025) from the band’s 5th album. The MGDs released their 4th album, Midtown on Nov. 22, 2029. This followed, Somos Como Somos, from Nov. 4, 2017. The band is: Matt Davis on drums, percussion & vocals; Greg Bush on bass; Damon Parker on keyboards & vocals; Scott “Snoof” Middleton on guitar; Rudy Vasquez on saxophones; and Eric Martens on trumpet. This KC based 6-piece band that mixes piano and brass with a dynamic rhythm section that adds a unique flavor to the iconic KC music culture, blending of funk & blues with soulful stylings. In what started as a 3-piece between longtime friends Matt, Greg & Damon in 2008, the MGDs have evolved into a potent powerhouse, high-energy ensemble with regular monthly appearances at the Phoenix, and athe Sunset Music Fest, the City Market Crawfish Fest, the Phoenix Fest, Crossroads Music Fest, Middle of The Map Fest, Boulevardia, The Plaza Art Fair, Kauffman Stadium before two KC Royals games. In 2016 the band released, “Wake Up” their 2nd album.]

10:29 – Underwriting

Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom – “His Hat”
from: BURST / Bad Egg Records / September 6, 2024
[D. Hitchcock on drums, synths, production. Sal Cataldi on guitars/guitar synth. Percy Jones on fretless bass, with Malcolm Smart on bass. Bob Madiou, Hannes DeKassian, Jim Houghton on guitars. Po Gyzer on keys, Jim Seely on trumpet, Richard Brinka, Kenny Conti, Jim Ollin on saxes. // Mick Cantarella on Engineering, co-producer. Sal Cataldi on Mastering. // New 5-Track EP Spans Electro-Funk to Free Jazz with an All-Star Lineup Including Fretless Bass Master Percy Jones (Eno, Brand X) // BURST, the new instrumental EP from the critically acclaimed Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom, was released via iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Bandcamp, and other platforms. The curiously named duo’s five-track, 26-minute collection continues their explorations of funky, experimental, post-rock, dub and free jazz in the company of special guests, including Percy Jones, the fretless bass innovator best known for his work on Brian Eno’s Another Green World and his fusion band, Brand X. // The leaders of the oddly named duo, Kansas City-based percussionist D. Hitchcock and New York City & Hudson Valley-based guitarist Sal Cataldi, first outlined their recombinant genre research on the 1998 cult smash Escape Velocity, a jazz-inflected/noise & dub fueled flight for the chill-out room featuring another star by Percy Jones. The duo followed this with the even more adventurous and acclaimed 2012 release, Geolago. These albums garnered raves from all edges of the cognoscenti universe, including The Village Voice (“truly excellent… where Miles meets Midi”), Jazz Times (“an interesting potpourri of styles and spacious ambiance”), Alternative Press , Aquarian Weekly (techie gorks, a free-funk direction reminiscent of Last Exit or Sonny Sharrock’s soundtrack to ‘Space Ghost’), CMJ, Fantastic Voyage System (“marvelous head candy, an all-out trip fest”) and Fact Sheet Five (“part jazz, dub, funk, industrial and experimental, way more exciting than 99% of the music being released these days”). // BURST pre-dates Hari Karaoke’s first two album releases. It was recorded in 1992-93 when Hitchcock and Cataldi lived in Brooklyn. Hitchcock was the driving force behind this collection—as its producer, the solo composer of four of the five tracks, and supervisor, along with engineer and co-producer Mick Cantarella of Grampa Studios, of the outrageous dub-and-electronica-flavored mix. Cataldi supervised the mastering and sequencing in July 2024 at his Sonic Garden Studios in Woodstock, NY. The cover art is from Sonja Hitchcock. //“In the early ‘90s, eclecticism was the order of the day,” says Hitchcock. “Eno, Tackhead, Bill Laswell, ‘70s Miles and King Tubby were the soundtracks in our houses, the guideposts for what would become Hari Karaoke. The project began with me laying down five solo drum tracks, complete improvisations, at Mick’s studio. I returned to generate harmonic parts with Mick’s early triggering devices and effects. // “The next step was bringing in my musical friends to build these into songs. I was playing with Sal in a rock band, and he was also deep into jazz and experimentation, so he was an obvious choice and played a major role, especially as we partnered up to co-produce and compose the two following albums. We had Bob Madiou, Hannes DeKassian, and Jim Houghton adding some guitar. Po Gyser offered up some keys, along with Cynthia Harden. Jim Seely and Kenny Rampton played trumpet, and we had sax players Sam Brooks, Richard Brinka, Jimmy Ollen, and Jeff Zelnick. Malcolm Smart, who played in the rock band with Sal and me, is featured on the EP’s opener. Why these tracks were never released then is still a mystery to me. I’m glad Sal lit a fire under me to get this stuff out there.” // HK Trio previewed this new archival release by dropping the EP’s opening track as a single earlier this month: the feedback- and deep groove-drenched “Tropical Depression.” The tune opens with 28 seconds of wailing feedback guitar from Cataldi before bassist Smart lays down a rootsy, repetitive bottom groove, accented by Hitchcock’s phased drums and cut-up vocal samples. // The remaining four tracks are a virtuosic tour-de-force, especially from bassist Jones. “Denatured” begins with the quiet ambiance of temple bells before a prominent drum beat kicks in. Jones is the lead instrumental here, deploying chordal slurs, bell-like harmonics, percussive beats and scratches on his bass. The track concludes with the bassist and guitarist Cataldi trading eights, with the latter on nylon string guitar. “His Hat” once again kicks off with feedback and whammy bar abuse from Cataldi before heading into a deep funk groove. Jones again runs rampant, and the track boasts solos from trumpeter Jim Seely and guitarists Madiou and Cataldi. “Limo Ride to the Moon” has a world music flavor, underpinned with kalimba melodies and samples of Muslim prayers. The EP’s closer and longest track, “Hit List,” is a nine-plus-minute free jazz marathon of harmolodic interplay between the players, with multiple guitars, reeds, and brass going full bore – a taste of the authentic flavor of Knitting Factory-styled downtown jazz of New York City in the ‘90s, a venue where Hari Karaoke often performed.

10:34 – Interview with Doug Hitchcock

Doug Hitchcock has been working as a musician since the mid-1980s. He played with Freedy Johnston on demo recordings that got Freedy his first recording deal. Doug also played with the Lawrence Kansas bizarre-core outfit Near-Death Experience and others. Doug moved to New York in the late 1980s and wound up drumming for a number of bands in the so-called Brooklyn Beat Scene, including The Original Rays, Frank’s Museum, Bite the Wax Godhead, The X-Rays, and Medicine Sunday. Doug’s Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom began in that period as a series of studio experiments that morphed into a working band gigging at The Knitting Factory and other NYC venues. Since returning to KC in the late 1990s, Doug becomes a mainstay on the Blues and Jazz scene, performing with Everette DeVan, TooBig2Fail, The Midtown Quartet, The Old Crows. A rocker at heart, Doug has also kept busy over the years with The Douglas County Quintet, Ricky Dean Sinatra, The Mad Kings, and his “home band,” SHE SAID.

Doug Hitchcock Thank you for being with us on WMM.

He played with Freedy Johnston on demo recordings that got Freedy his first recording deal. Doug also played with the Lawrence Kansas bizarre-core outfit Near-Death Experience and others.

Doug moved to New York in the late 1980s and wound up drumming for a number of bands in the so-called Brooklyn Beat Scene, including The Original Rays, Frank’s Museum, Bite the Wax Godhead, The X-Rays, and Medicine Sunday.

Doug’s Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom began in that period as a series of studio experiments that morphed into a working band gigging at The Knitting Factory and other NYC venues.

The leaders of the oddly named duo, Kansas City-based percussionist D. Hitchcock and New York City & Hudson Valley-based guitarist Sal Cataldi, first outlined their recombinant genre research on the 1998 cult smash Escape Velocity, a jazz-inflected/noise & dub fueled flight for the chill-out room featuring another star by Percy Jones. The duo followed this with the even more adventurous and acclaimed 2012 release, Geolago. These albums garnered raves from all edges of the cognoscenti universe, including The Village Voice (“truly excellent… where Miles meets Midi”), Jazz Times (“an interesting potpourri of styles and spacious ambiance”), Alternative Press , Aquarian Weekly (techie gorks, a free-funk direction reminiscent of Last Exit or Sonny Sharrock’s soundtrack to ‘Space Ghost’), CMJ, Fantastic Voyage System (“marvelous head candy, an all-out trip fest”) and Fact Sheet Five (“part jazz, dub, funk, industrial and experimental, way more exciting than 99% of the music being released these days”).

BURST pre-dates Hari Karaoke’s first 2 album releases. Recorded in 1992-93 when Hitchcock & Cataldi lived in Brooklyn. Hitchcock was the driving force behind this collection—as producer, solo composer of 4 of the 5 tracks, and supervisor, along with engineer and co-producer Mick Cantarella of Grampa Studios, of the outrageous dub-and-electronica-flavored mix. Cataldi supervised the mastering and sequencing in July 2024 at his Sonic Garden Studios in Woodstock, NY. The cover art is from Sonja Hitchcock.

“In the early ‘90s, eclecticism was the order of the day,” says Hitchcock. “Eno, Tackhead, Bill Laswell, ‘70s Miles and King Tubby were the soundtracks in our houses, the guideposts for what would become Hari Karaoke. The project began with me laying down five solo drum tracks, complete improvisations, at Mick’s studio. I returned to generate harmonic parts with Mick’s early triggering devices and effects.

“The next step was bringing in my musical friends to build these into songs. I was playing with Sal in a rock band, and he was also deep into jazz and experimentation, so he was an obvious choice and played a major role, especially as we partnered up to co-produce and compose the two following albums. We had Bob Madiou, Hannes DeKassian, and Jim Houghton adding some guitar. Po Gyser offered up some keys, along with Cynthia Harden. Jim Seely & Kenny Rampton played trumpet, and sax players Sam Brooks, Richard Brinka, Jimmy Ollen, and Jeff Zelnick. Malcolm Smart, who played in the rock band with Sal and me, is featured on the EP’s opener. Why these tracks were never released then is still a mystery to me. I’m glad Sal lit a fire under me to get this stuff out there.

10:43

Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom– “Tropical Depression”
from: BURST / Bad Egg Records / September 6, 2024
[D. Hitchcock on drums, synths, production. Sal Cataldi on guitars/guitar synth. Percy Jones on fretless bass, with Malcolm Smart on bass. Bob Madiou, Hannes DeKassian, Jim Houghton on guitars. Po Gyzer on keys, Jim Seely on trumpet, Richard Brinka, Kenny Conti, Jim Ollin on saxes. // Mick Cantarella on Engineering, co-producer. Sal Cataldi on Mastering. // New 5-Track EP Spans Electro-Funk to Free Jazz with an All-Star Lineup Including Fretless Bass Master Percy Jones (Eno, Brand X) // BURST, the new instrumental EP from the critically acclaimed Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom, was released via iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Bandcamp, and other platforms. The curiously named duo’s five-track, 26-minute collection continues their explorations of funky, experimental, post-rock, dub and free jazz in the company of special guests, including Percy Jones, the fretless bass innovator best known for his work on Brian Eno’s Another Green World and his fusion band, Brand X.]

10:47 – More Interview with Doug Hitchcock

Drummer Doug Hitchcock has been gigging and recording since the mid-1980s. Played with Freedy Johnston on the demo recordings that got him his first records deal; with Moved to New York late ’80s and wound up drumming for a number of bands in the so-called Brooklyn Beat Scene, including The Original Rays, Frank’s Museum, Bite the Wax Godhead, The X-Rays, and Medicine Sunday. Doug’s Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom began in that period as a series of studio experiments that morphed into a working band gigging at The Knitting Factory and other NYC venues.

Doug Hitchcock Thank you for being with us on WMM.

Since returning to Kansas City in the late ’90s, Doug is a mainstay on the Blues and Jazz scene, performing with Everette DeVan, TooBig2Fail, The Midtown Quartet, and The Old Crows.

The Douglas County Quintet and Ricky Dean Sinatra, The Mad Kings, and his “home band,” so to speak, SHE SAID.

The KC based, 4-piece band, SHE SAID, is made up of Jennie Ferguson on vocals & guitar, Scott Mize on guitar, Doug Hitchcock on drums, and Matt Kesler on bass & vocals.

Matt Kesler and Scott Mize used to be in a band called Sylvan Grove. Jennie Ferguson and Scott Mize used to play in a band called Shotgun Solution. This was after the time of Jennie’s all-girl psych/pop band PMS.

Doug Hitchcock has played with Matt Kesler in the Midtown Jazz Quartet. Doug has played with Freedy Johnston, and the band Near Death Experience. Matt Kesler also plays in the famous bands The Pedajets and The Doo Dads.

Doug Hitchcock Thank you for being with us on WMM.

10:56

She Said – “These Are The Days”
from: What! / She Said / April 2025
[Jennie Ferguson on vocals & guitar, Scott Mize on guitar, Doug Hitchcock on drums, and Matt Kesler, on bass. From the upcoming 12-track album/vinyl release What! Produced by She Said, Recorded & Engineered by Paul Malinowski at Massive Sound Studios. Mixed by Paul Malinowski and She Said. Mastered by Mike Nolte, Eureka Mastering.Lyrics by: Jennie Ferguson. Music by Jennie Ferguson and She Said. Matt Kesler and Scott Mize used to be in a band called Sylvan Grove. Jennie Ferguson and Scott Mize used to play in a band called Shotgun Solution. This was after the time of Jennie’s all-girl psych/pop band PMS. Doug Hitchcock has played with Matt Kesler in the Midtown Jazz Quartet. Doug has played with Freedie Johston, and the band Near Death Experience. Matt Kesler also plays in the famous bands The Pedajets and The Doo Dads.]

11:00 – Station ID

Julie Bennett Hume – “John Lewis”
from: The Lorelei / Julie Bennett Hume / February 9, 2025
[4 years in the making, “The Lorelei” was produced by Chad Brothers and includes musicians: Chad Brothers, Marco Pascolini, Brandon Day, Scotch Hollow, Mark Montgomery, and Ernest James. // Julie Bennett Hume has been playing and writing music for over 35 years in the Lawrence/KC area. She has played and sung in various ensembles including a blues trio, an Afro-Cuban ensemble, various string bands, a Cajun ensemble and folk/Americana duos and ensembles. Her music shows a strong Cajun, Old-time and Blues influence with a nod to some of her favorite songwriters such as Stephen Stills, Maggie Roche and Gillian Welch. Julie has released four CD’s of original music including “Late Bloomer” in 2017, “Vinegar” in 2019, “Songs of Latter Days” in 2021 with the Multiverse and “The Lorelei” coming in February of 2025. The title track of “The Lorelei” is based on the poem of the same name by the German poet Heinrich Heine and revisits the theme of the dangerous siren. Songs deal with politics, family dynamics, love and loss. http://www.juliebennetthume.com]

11:05 – Interview with Julie Bennett Hume

Julie Bennett Hume is a singer-songwriter from Lee’s Summit, MO. She has been playing folk music for over 35 years in the Lawrence/KC area. She has played bass, guitar, banjo and performed as a vocalist in folk ensembles such as The Alferd Packer Memorial String Band, The KC Cajun Band, The All Night Fiddlers, the Afro- Cuban ensemble Manos, The Euphoria String Band, Table for Three, and Lost Cowgirl Revue which toured Germany and the Netherlands. She performs solo and with the duo The Stray Grays (with Leslie Giggler). Julie is also a High School teacher. Julie also works in radio, recently serving as producer and host of the KKFI program “River City Chautauqua“. She is currently getting ready to return to Community Radio with a new Women’s focused Public Affairs show starting in April. Julie served as a board member of the “Heartland Song Network”. Julie has released four solo albums of original music including “Late Bloomer” in 2017, “Vinegar,” in November of 2019, Songs Of Latter Days With Chris Hudson as The Multiverse, on November 1, 2020, and “The Lorelei” coming February 9, 2025.

Julie Bennett Hume welcome to Wednesday MidDay Medley

“The Lorelei” was four years in the making, “The Lorelei” was produced by Chad Brothers and includes musicians: Chad Brothers, Marco Pascolini, Brandon Day, Scotch Hollow, Mark Montgomery, and Ernest James.

Julie Bennett Hume is a singer-songwriter from Stilwell, Kansas. She has plays bass, guitar, and banjo. The title track of “The Lorelei” is based on the poem of the same name by the German poet Heinrich Heine and revisits the theme of the dangerous siren. Songs on her latest project deal with politics, family dynamics, love and loss .

Julie plays in the folk duo “The Stray Grays” with Leslie Giggler. Julie and Chris also perform in the group “Lost Cowgirl Revue”.

11:12

Julie Bennett Hume – “One Man”
from: The Lorelei / Julie Bennett Hume / February 9, 2025
[4 years in the making, “The Lorelei” was produced by Chad Brothers and includes musicians: Chad Brothers, Marco Pascolini, Brandon Day, Scotch Hollow, Mark Montgomery, and Ernest James. // Julie Bennett Hume has been playing and writing music for over 35 years in the Lawrence/KC area. She has played and sung in various ensembles including a blues trio, an Afro-Cuban ensemble, various string bands, a Cajun ensemble and folk/Americana duos and ensembles. Her music shows a strong Cajun, Old-time and Blues influence with a nod to some of her favorite songwriters such as Stephen Stills, Maggie Roche and Gillian Welch. Julie has released four CD’s of original music including “Late Bloomer” in 2017, “Vinegar” in 2019, “Songs of Latter Days” in 2021 with the Multiverse and “The Lorelei” coming in February of 2025. The title track of “The Lorelei” is based on the poem of the same name by the German poet Heinrich Heine and revisits the theme of the dangerous siren. Songs deal with politics, family dynamics, love and loss. http://www.juliebennetthume.com]

11:16 – More Interview with Julie Bennett Hume

Julie Bennett Hume is a singer-songwriter from Lee’s Summit, Missouri. She has been playing folk music for over 35 years in the Lawrence/Kansas City area. She has played bass, guitar, banjo and performed as a vocalist in numerous folk ensembles such as The Alferd Packer Memorial String Band, The Kansas City Cajun Band, The All Night Fiddlers, the Afro- Cuban ensemble Manos, The Euphoria String Band and Table for Three, and Lost Cowgirl Revue which toured Germany and the Netherlands. She performs solo and with the duo The Stray Grays (with Leslie Giggler). Julie is also a High School teacher who teaches German in public schools. Julie also works in radio, recently serving as producer and host of the KKFI program “River City Chautauqua“. She is currently getting ready to return to Community Radio with a new Women’s focused Public Affairs show starting in April. Julie has also served as a board member of the “Heartland Song Network”. Julie has released four solo albums of original music including “Late Bloomer” in 2017, “Vinegar,” in November of 2019, Songs Of Latter Days With Chris Hudson as The Multiverse, on November 1, 2020, and “The Lorelei” coming in February of 2025.

Julie Bennett Hume thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

“The Lorelei”. The title track of “The Lorelei” is based on the poem of the same name by the German poet Heinrich Heine and revisits the theme of the dangerous siren. Songs on her latest project deal with politics, family dynamics, love and loss.

Julie Bennett Hume – “Vinegar / Lost Cowgirl Records / November 1, 2019 . Julie Bennett Hume is a singer-songwriter from Stilwell, Kansas. She has been playing folk music for over 35 years in the Lawrence/Kansas City area. She has played bass, guitar, banjo and sung in numerous folk ensembles such as The Alferd Packer Memorial String Band, The Kansas City Cajun Band, The All Night Fiddlers, the Afro- Cuban ensemble Manos , The Euphoria String Band and Table for Three. She currently performs solo and with the duos The Stray Grays (with Leslie Giggler), The Multiverse (with Chris Hudson), the string band Wolves a’ Howlin’ and the group Lost Cowgirl Revue, which recently toured Germany and the Netherlands. Julie also teaches German part-time at a local high school and is the producer and host of the KKFI program “River City Chautauqua”. Her newest CD, Vinegar, was released in November of 2019.]

The Multiverse is Chris Hudson & Julie Bennett Hume have been playing and creating songs for decades in the KC – Lawrence area. Prolific songwriters with a love of poetry and prose, their music is an eclectic mix of folk, blues and country. For this recording of 13 songs Chris wrote 6 and Julie wrote 6 and they wrote one song together. They play on all songs together with help from the Kansas City acclaimed alternative string duo The Wires with Laurel Morgan parks on violin and Sascha Groschang on cello. Also contributing to the recording was Jason Beers. Chris Hudson also plays solo and with the bands “Gullywasher” and “The Bard Owls”. More info at: http://www.themultiversekc.com

Julie is also a High School teacher who teaches German in public schools.

Julie also works in radio, recently serving as producer and host of the KKFI program “River City Chautauqua“.

She is currently getting ready to return to Community Radio with a new Women’s focused Public Affairs show starting in April.

Julie Bennett Hume thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Julie Bennett Hume’s new album “The Lorelei” will be released on February 9, 2025
More info at: http://www.juliebennetthume.com

11:25

Julie Bennett Hume – “I Feel A Chill”
from: The Lorelei / Julie Bennett Hume / February 9, 2025
[4 years in the making, “The Lorelei” was produced by Chad Brothers and includes musicians: Chad Brothers, Marco Pascolini, Brandon Day, Scotch Hollow, Mark Montgomery, and Ernest James. // Julie Bennett Hume has been playing and writing music for over 35 years in the Lawrence/KC area. She has played and sung in various ensembles including a blues trio, an Afro-Cuban ensemble, various string bands, a Cajun ensemble and folk/Americana duos and ensembles. Her music shows a strong Cajun, Old-time and Blues influence with a nod to some of her favorite songwriters such as Stephen Stills, Maggie Roche and Gillian Welch. Julie has released four CD’s of original music including “Late Bloomer” in 2017, “Vinegar” in 2019, “Songs of Latter Days” in 2021 with the Multiverse and “The Lorelei” coming in February of 2025. The title track of “The Lorelei” is based on the poem of the same name by the German poet Heinrich Heine and revisits the theme of the dangerous siren. Songs deal with politics, family dynamics, love and loss. http://www.juliebennetthume.com]

11:29 – Underwriting

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 & The Vibez played Boulevardia Festival at Crown Center, on June 16, 2024.]

[Malek Azrael plays Manor Records Songbird Sessions, Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 6:00pm, at Manor Records, 5540 Troost Ave., KCMO. This is the Heartland Song Network Takeover as Malek Azrael is their Artist of The Month.]

[Malek Azrael & The Vibez plays ROCK IS BLACK—a celebration of Black artists in rock music, happening February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Zhou B Art Center, 1801 E 18th Street, KCMO. Rock is Black features: Jamogi and The Jammers, Stephonne and Frankie Shorez & Mercy Fire.]

11:34 – Interview with Malek Azrael, Izzy Vivas, and Josh Luke

Malek Azrael is a Kansas City-based singer, songwriter, and producer whose music effortlessly blends elements of Indie Rock and R&B Pop. Born and raised in the heart of the Midwest, Malek’s music is a reflection of his upbringing and his experiences, which he translates into honest, heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies. // In October of 2021, Malek Azrael released his first album “Waves” which first featured members of his live band “The Vibez”. Upon the release of the debut project, The band hosted a sold-out release concert with 110 tickets sold. Since then, they have grown their fanbase in KC and surrounding areas through live concerts land appearances at Boulevardia Festival, Ameri’Kana, and the 18th and Vine Gumbo Fest, and shows at RecordBar, The Truman, Grinders, and Knuckleheads and collaborated with larger acts such as Making Movies, The Greeting Committee, and D Smoke. // Malek and The Vibez are set to release their new EP on February 28, 2025.

Izzy Vivas is Art Director at the Zhou B Art Center. Izzy Vivas received her Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Arts (BA), and Social Practice Minor, from the Kansas City Art Institute. Izzy has honed her skills in curating immersive art experiences and pushing creative boundaries. She has worked at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art, Doo Good KC, and is a visionary behind the West 18th Street Fashion Show, Izzy leads the creative direction of this iconic event, uniting designers, artists, and performers to showcase cutting-edge designs and celebrate Kansas City’s cultural richness. Izzy’s expertise lies in her ability to merge art and fashion seamlessly, provoking thought and inspiring change through her innovative storytelling and visionary leadership.

Joshua Luke is the drummer for Malek Azrael & The Vibez. Josh Luke is a Kansas City-based audio engineer with a wide variety of skills and is the sole owner of Josh Luke Music and Audio LLC. He has a wide range of experiences in audio and the entertainment industry due to his passion, work ethic, easygoing attitude, ability to troubleshoot, and a degree in audio engineering. One of Josh’s greatest strengths is his constant desire to learn. Regarding live events, Josh has worked as an audio specialist or stagehand for MJH Media Group, Crossroads Sound, City Light Orchestra, The Levee Bar and Grill, and a handful and churches in the area. Through these opportunities, he has mixed at the Midland and Truman event spaces and set up and run audio for corporate events and weddings in hotels and venues all over town and the Midwest. He’s recently partnered with Prosperoes Bookstore by live recording and mixing a diverse range of local bands and artists for their Bell Tower concert series. Josh is also an energetic wedding and event DJ/MC. He will ensure your wedding or event flows smoothly and the music perfectly captures the mood. A few of the places he has DJ’d at include Gather at Red Cedar, Museum at Prairiefire, the Deleware, Beck Event Space, and Eltron KC. More info at: joshlukemusicandaudiollc.com

Malek Azrael, Izzy Vivas, and Joshua Luke joins us to share details about ROCK IS BLACK—a celebration of Black artists in rock music, happening February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Zhou B Art Center, 1801 E 18th Street, KCMO. Rock is Black features: Malek Azrael & The Vibez, Jamogi and The Jammers, Stephonne, and Frankie Shorez & Mercy Fire.

Malek Azrael, Izzy Vivas, and Joshua Luke thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Rock is Black is dedicated to uplifting and showcasing under-represented Black artists in the rock music genre, and celebrate the rich, yet often overlooked, contributions Black artists have made to rock music throughout history. From blues rock to pop punk, this unique occasion serves as the release concert for the highly anticipated indie rock EP by Malek Azrael & the Vibez, a band committed to redefining the landscape of music through a Black lens. Malek Azrael is a KC-based singer, songwriter, & producer whose music effortlessly blends Indie Rock & R&B Pop.

Malek and The Vibez are set to release their new EP on February 28, 2025., diving into and Indie Rock souind with a Y2k essence inspired by bands like Weezer, Wheatus, Lenny Kravitz, Smash Mouth, and Paramour.

ROCK IS BLACK—a celebration of Black artists in rock music, happening February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Zhou B Art Center, 1801 E 18th Street, KCMO. Rock is Black features: Malek Azrael & The Vibez, Jamogi and The Jammers, Stephonne, and Frankie Shorez & Mercy Fire.

11:41

Frankie Shorez – “Wanna Be Bad”
from: “Wanna Be Bad” – Single / Mercy Fire LLC / January 3, 2024
[Frankie B. Shorez is a 22 year old singer, Songwriter, Model, actress, and clothing designer and Small Business owner from Kansas city MO. From Rags to Riches chasing the dream..]

[Frankie Shorez & Mercy Fire plays ROCK IS BLACK—a celebration of Black artists in rock music, happening February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Zhou B Art Center, 1801 E 18th Street, KCMO. Rock is Black features: Malek Azrael & The Vibez, Jamogi and The Jammers, and Stephonne.]

11:45 – Interview with Malek Azrael, Izzy Vivas, and Joshua Luke

Malek Azrael returns to WMM to talk about ROCK IS BLACK—a celebration of Black artists in rock music, happening February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Zhou B Art Center, 1801 E 18th Street, KCMO. Rock is Black features: Malek Azrael & The Vibez, Jamogi and The Jammers, Stephonne, and Frankie Shorez & Mercy Fire.

Malek Azrael, Izzy Vivas, and Joshua Luke, thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Malek Azrael plays Manor Records Songbird Sessions, Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 6:00pm, at Manor Records, 5540 Troost Ave., KCMO. This is the Heartland Song Network Takeover as Malek Azrael is their Artist of The Month.

Rock is Black is dedicated to uplifting and showcasing under-represented Black artists in the rock music genre, and celebrate the rich, yet often overlooked, contributions Black artists have made to rock music throughout history. From blues rock to pop punk, this unique occasion serves as the release concert for the highly anticipated indie rock EP by Malek Azrael & the Vibez, a band committed to redefining the landscape of music through a Black lens. Malek Azrael is a KC-based singer, songwriter, & producer whose music effortlessly blends Indie Rock & R&B Pop

Malek Azrael grew up in Kansas City. Malek Azrael was part of Making Movies non-profit organization Art As Mentorship, and sometimes plays with Making Movies. Makek Azrael released his 10-track debut album on October 15, 2021. Malek Azrael released the singles “22” on January 13, 2023, and “Anxiety” on April 30, 2023. Malek is the lead singer and songwriter of his band, Malek & The Vibez.

Malek has played the Folk Alliance International Conference, and has played the Ameri-Kana Fest, KKFI’s Crossroads Music Fest, Boulevardia Festival, and The Greenwood Social Hall. Malek Azrael’s new single will be officially released on Friday, March 1, 2024. More info at: http://www.mavband.us . More info at: http://www.mavband.us

Malek & The Vibez is a band that includes lead singer songwriter Malek Azrael, drummer Josh Luke, bassist Jack Roberts, and guitarist Calvin Haverkamp. Malek Azrael grew up in Kansas City. He has worked for Boys Grow, and is currently working with touring. Malek Azrael was part of Making Movies non-profit organization Art As Mentorship, and sometimes plays with Making Movies. Malek played the Ameri-Kana Fest, and KKFI’s 18th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, on Aug. 27, 2022. Makek Azrael released his 10-track debut album on October 15, 2021. Malek Azrael released the single “22” on January 13, 2023, and the newest single, “Anxiety” on April 30, 2023. More info at: http://www.mavband.us

Malek Azrael’s debut album “Waves” was compared to the likes of D’angelo, Stevie Wonder, and Prince with a voice that rivals the greatest RnB singers of our generation. Malek then added ‘The Vibez” as a live band to support the record and the combination of Drummer Josh Luke, bassist Jack Roberts, and guitarist Calvin “CLAV” Haverkamp created a groove that would make even a geriatric shake their hips.

Malek’s autobiographical single “22” featured Malek’s experience of growing pains and learning lessons in your 20’s. Turning 20 and 21 during the Covid epidemic where you’re not out making mistakes and living life. So when I turned 22 and I was finally able to leave my house, I found that it was toxic overload tbh. Malek says, “Your 20’s are toxic and hard and so my 2022 year was exhausting trying to be a young adult and learning to be a social human again.”

Malek’s band, The Vibez are total Taylor Swift fans but we realized after naming the song 22, that our song was in direct opposition of hers’. She was selling the awesome party, hipster version of being 20 and made us believe that we were going to be these cool adults drinking and laughing with our friends and we are all looking at each other like “this shit sucks” but we’ve got to keep going cause maybe it gets better… hopefully. So we love TAY SWIZZLE, we just wanna know when we can say “It feels like a perfect night to dress up like hipsters and make fun of our exes” cause its not feeling that way just y

Malek talks about having a particularly hard time with being told what music and sound was expected of him because he was a black male R&B singer and it made it extremely hard to create. Malek writes, “I started writing because I loved telling a story no matter the genre, and I actually grew up with a huge appreciation for rock thanks to my dad and his obsession with most of the soundtrack from guitar hero. I decided to say fuck expectations and make music thats fun and that me and my band align with right now in this part of our journey. I’m not saying goodbye to my roots at all, I’m just saying “ hey i’m an artist, not a genre” and creating freely, that is what i think music should be. I want to remind others that black rock stars still exist!”

Malek’s transition from a solo artist to a band wasn’t easy because a lot of it dealt with trust. It was a challenge of trusting the growth, the process, and others to care for the something that you nurtured by yourself for so long. It was extremely new navigating being a man who spoke for himself to be a front man who now has a band of skilled artists who bring their own style and point of views to this project. Honestly, I have to thank my band mates Josh Luke, Jack Roberts, and Calvin “CLAV” Haverkamp, along with our producer and friend Brandon Yangmi because they allowed me to be able to speak my truth and actually helped me elevate my recording technique and see the potential in my work. I dream bigger when I write now, which I didn’t even know was possible until we started this project.

Malek Azrael, Izzy Vivas, and Joshua Luke, thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

ROCK IS BLACK—a celebration of Black artists in rock music, February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Zhou B Art Center, 1801 E 18th St, KCMO. Rock is Black features: Malek Azrael & The Vibez, Jamogi & The Jammers, Stephonne, Frankie Shorez & Mercy Fire

11:53

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 plays ROCK IS BLACK—a celebration of Black artists in rock music, happening February 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM at the Zhou B Art Center, 1801 E 18th Street, KCMO. Rock is Black features: Malek Azrael & The Vibez, Jamogi and The Jammers, Stephonne, and Frankie Shorez & Mercy Fire.]

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

NEXT WEEK, on February 5

At 10:30 we’ll talk with Diana Watts of Whim Productions about the world premiere of Claire Carson’s, Kissing in the Grocery Store, a multimedia theater experience exploring queer identity, love, loss, and the quest for courage to live authentically. Also joining us is Kevin King Whim Production’s Artistic Director. Kissing in the Grocery Store runs Thursday, February 6 through Sunday, Feb 16, 2025 at Whim Space, 415 Prospect, KCMO 64124. //

At 11:00am we’ll talk with Chris Garibaldi co-founder of Lotus Pool Records and Mark Henning of the bands Zoom, National Trust, Voice of Action. Chris and Mark will share all the details about the newest Lotus Pool release titled: James Grauerholz – Life’s Too Good To Keep, a 21-track, double vinyl album compilation of the recorded songs of Grauerholz. James Grauerholz has long been known as ‘The Burroughs Guy’. From 1974 until William Burroughs death in 1997, James has handled the business of William S. Burroughs Communications, acting as his manager, bibliographer, editor, literary executor and companion. To this day he continues to helm the business of Burroughs. What has been little-known up until now is that James has led a double life as an accomplished musician and songwriter with an extensive body of work stretching back from the late 1960s to the present. In fact, music was his first passion.

At 11:30 we’ll talk with Daniel Gum about his new EP Met You Too Soon released on Manor Records on December 13, 2024.

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

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

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

Show #1080

WMM Playlist from January 22, 2025

Posted on January 23, 2025 by Mark Manning

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

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Michelle Bacon & The Band That Fell To Earth + Mike Dillon + Music from TRAИƧA

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

Fullbloods – “White House Dot Com (Blue Websites)”
from: Playing It Safe / High Dive Records / March 7, 2025
[Second Single from the 4th studio album of Fullbloods. The first single, “No Hesitation” was released on December 7, 2024. // Fullbloods is a studio project of songwriter and producer Ross Brown (Shy Boys, Koney, Snacky). Live he is joined by his friends and the music is probably better that way. Thanks for listening! // Fullbloods released their 3rd full-length album Soft and Virtual Touch on High Dive Records on April 3, 2020. All songs written, performed, recorded, mixed by Ross Brown (℗© 2019 Bargain Hunt Music / ASCAP) in Kansas City, MO. Mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering. Artwork by Nika Winn. Kyle Rausch played drums on 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 9, sang on 9. Bill Pollock Played drums on 3 and 5. David Seume played bass on 5. Jerad Tomasino played synth on 9 and 10, sang on 9. Jenni Kornfeld played cello on 4. Leslie Butsch played sax on 10. More information at: http://www.fullbloods.com.]

Tunde Adebimpe – “Magnetic”
from: ”Magnetic” – Single / Sub Pop / October 29, 2024
[Tunde Adebimpe, the multi-hyphenate talent and enigmatic frontman for TV on the Radio, shared the single “Magnetic”, both his solo debut and first release at his new label home Sub Pop Records. “Magnetic” will be featured on his debut solo album coming in 2025. Accompanying the single is the official video, directed by Adebimpe. // The label’s co-founder Jonathan Poneman says of the signing, “We heartily welcome Tunde Adebimpe to Sub Pop’s roster of artists. His inclusion makes the whole lot better – and a whole lot classier! We’ve waited 20-plus years for Sub Pop to earn the chance to be Tunde Adebimpe’s label.” Sub Pop Records is home to celebrated artists such as Suki Waterhouse, Father John Misty, Weyes Blood, and Beach House // Outside of TV on the Radio, Tunde Adebimpe is a musician, actor (Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, Rachel Getting Married, Twisters), animator, director and visual artist (A Warm Weather Ghost, Plague Heroes). His prior solo work has been in collaborations with artists such as Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Massive Attack, and Run The Jewels, plus contributions to Grand Theft Auto V, Sleater Kinney’s covers album, and more. // TV on the Radio is currently celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album, Desperate Youth, Bloodthirsty Babes, with a string of sold-out shows this November and December in New York, Los Angeles, and London.]

Moses Sumney – “Is It Cold In The Water (feat. ANOHNI)”
from: TRAИƧA / Red Hot / November 22, 2024
[One of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken by the storied activist and music production non-profit Red Hot, TRAИƧA is a spiritual journey across eight chapters and 46 songs with over 100 artists contributing. The album spotlights the gifts of many of the most daring, imaginative trans and non-binary artists working today. // Dust Reid, who led production on Red Hot’s 2014 tribute to Arthur Russell, and Massima Bell, an artist and activist based in Los Angeles, began tracing the contours of what would become TRAИƧA together in 2021. The two producers originally met at a video shoot in upstate New York, and immediately bonded over their shared love of Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s music, as well as a common devotional connection to nature.
The passing of SOPHIE, the pathbreaking electronic producer who died in January 2021, galvanized the producers and focused their work. “We started talking about all the gifts that trans artists have been giving to the world, and wanted to create a Red Hot project that centered and celebrated those gifts,” says Reid. “We hoped to create a narrative that positions trans and non-binary people as leaders in our society insofar as the deep inner work they do to affirm who they are in our current climate. We felt this is something everybody should do. Whether you identify as trans or non-binary or otherwise, if you took the time to explore your gender, get in touch with the feeling side of yourself, maybe we would have a future oriented around values of community, collaboration, care, and healing.” // Bell and Reid began conceiving of the album as a spiritual journey in eight chapters, a mirror of the original eight-stripe rainbow pride flag. The narrative begins at the earliest awareness of consciousness; moves through awakening, trauma, and grief; and arrives at liberation and continual reinvention. “One thing trans people do all the time is turn grief into possibility,” says Bell. “Living under the ongoing Western binary system, trans people reveal maps of possibility for everyone. It’s something that we can all learn from – expanding the possibility of human life.” Each chapter begins with a “chapter track,” kicking off a collection of songs that speak to that chapter’s theme. // As the producers began inviting musicians to contribute to TRAИƧA, the political climate in the United States and across the world started to foment an acute reactionary streak. Legislation denying trans people the hard-won right to medically transition proliferated across the country. Book bans rained down on libraries, stamping shut crucial apertures into trans and queer lives. The necessity of TRAИƧA’s presence in the world started to crystallize. // “The stakes have never been higher,” notes Bell. “We’re seeing a rise in anti-trans hate and vitriol that is particularly being spewed in the United States. I am a trans person from Iowa, one of the states that signed into law a bill that prohibits access to gender-affirming care. It is clearly, materially, a terrifying time.” // TRAИƧA FEATURED ARTISTS:Adrianne Lenker * Ahya Simone * Alan Sparhawk (Low) * Allison Russell * Am Taylor * Anajah * Ana Roxanne * André 3000 * Anjimile * Arthur Baker * Asher White * AV María * Babehoven * Bartees Strange * Belina Rose * Benét * Beverly Glenn-Copeland * Bill Callahan * Blake Mills * Bloomsday * Calvin Lauber * Caroline Rose * Cassandra Croft * Cassandra Jenkins * Christian Lee Hutson * claire rousay * Clairo * CLARITY * Cole Pulice * Dave Longstreth * Devendra Banhart * Eileen Myles * Eli Winter * Elizabeth Glenn-Copeland * Ezra Furman * Faye Webster * Fleet Foxes * Frankie Cosmos * Gary Gunn * Gia Margaret * Green-House * Grouper * Hand Habits * Heart Shaped * Helado Negro * Hunter Schafer * Jamal Shakeri * Jay Dee Daugherty * Jayne County * Jeff Tweedy * Jlin * Joy Guidry * Julianna Barwick * Julie Byrne * Julien Baker * Kara Jackson * Kathi Wilcox * KB Brookins * Kelela * Laraaji * Laura Jane Grace * Lauren Auder * Lee Ranaldo * Lightning Bug * Lomelda * Lucy Liyou * Lynn Avery * Lyra Pramuk * L’Rain * Mary Lattimore * MIZU * Moor Mother * More Eaze * Moses Sumney * Nico Georis * Niecy Blues * Nina Keith * Nsámbu Za Suékama * NYC Trans Oral History Project * Pepper MaShay * Perfume Genius * Pharoah Sanders * Quinn Christopherson * Rachika Nayar * Sade Adu * Sam Smith * Sharon Van Etten * SKY * SOAK * Soft Rōnin * Sparkle Division * Taryn Blake Miller * Teddy Geiger * Time Wharp * Wendy & Lisa of the Revolution * Yaeji * Yaya Bey // Moses Sumney (born May 19, 1992) is an American singer-songwriter. His self-recorded EP, Mid-City Island, was released in 2014. He released another five-song EP in 2016, titled Lamentations. His first full-length album, Aromanticism, was released in September 2017. His second studio album, Græ, was released in 2020. Sumney has performed as an opening act for James Blake, Solange Knowles, and Sufjan Stevens. // Born in California, Sumney was raised by pastor parents, and moved with his family back to Ghana at the age of 10. He described his childhood as “Americanized” by this age and had difficulty adjusting to the culture of Ghana, especially the rural nature of his new environment. There he grew up on a goat farm in Accra and commuted by public bus to school. His family returned to Southern California when Sumney was 16, settling in Riverside. // He did not learn to play any instruments until he was older, writing a cappella music for years instead. Sumney did not perform his musical compositions publicly until he was 20. // After high school, he moved to Los Angeles in 2010 to attend the University of California, Los Angeles. He majored in creative writing and studied poetry, which helped him improve his songwriting. // Anohni Hegarty (formerly Antony Hegarty, born 1971), styled as ANOHNI, is a British-born American singer, songwriter, and visual artist. She has presented solo work and as the lead singer of the band Anohni and the Johnsons, formerly known as Antony and the Johnsons.// She started her musical career performing with an ensemble of New York musicians as Antony and the Johnsons. Their self-titled first album was released in 2000 on David Tibet’s label Durtro. Their second album, I Am a Bird Now (2005), was a commercial and critical success, earning her the Mercury Music Prize. // In 2016, Anohni became the first openly transgender performer nominated for an Academy Award;[5] she was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Original Song, along with J. Ralph, for the song “Manta Ray” in the film Racing Extinction. Her debut solo album, Hopelessness, was released in May 2016 to wide critical acclaim, including another nomination for the Mercury Music Prize and a Brit Award. In 2023, as Anohni and the Johnsons, the artist released her sixth album, My Back Was a Bridge for You to Cross. // Anohni was born in 1971 in Chichester, England. She identified as transgender from an early age. In 1977, her family moved to Amsterdam for a year, and then, in 1981, they moved to the San Francisco Bay Area of California, settling in San Jose, where Anohni attended Lincoln High School and studied music and was an avid record collector. She told The Telegraph in 2005, “I was listening to OMD, Kate Bush, Culture Club, Alison Moyet and especially Marc and the Mambas, which was this incredibly dark and emotional side project for Marc Almond.” Anohni also recalled how she “saw [her] reflection” in Boy George, the lead singer of Culture Club. // In 1990, Anohni moved to Manhattan to attend Experimental Theater Wing at New York University. In 1992 she founded the performance collective Blacklips, later known as Blacklips Performance Cult, with creative partner Johanna Constantine, and she spent the next several years singing in after-hours bars and clubs using pre-recorded cassettes as self-accompaniment as well as writing and directing late-night theatre productions]

Claire Adams – “Westerlies (feat. Lyndsay Pruett)”
from: “Westerlies (feat. Lyndsay Pruett)” – Single / Claire Adams / December 21, 2024
[Claire Adams writes to tell us that, Westerlies is a contemplation on life and death, beginnings, cycles, endings, joy and depression, friendship and connection. With: Claire Adams on vocals and bass. Featuring Lyndsay Pruett (of Jon Stickley Trio) on fiddle, Fritz Hutchison on mandolin, Abraham Villaseñor on guitar. Recorded at Rio Verde in Guadalajara, Mex. Additional recording, mixing, mastering by Duane Trower at Weights+Measures Soundlab in Kansas City, Missouri // Last year Clair released the 3-song EP Words of Love on April 2, 2024 with Claire Adams-vocals, bass; Daniel Dissmore on trumpet; Fritz Hutchison on drums; Jackie Myers on piano; Trevor Turla on trombone; Abraham Villaseñor on guitar. // Recorded, mixed and mastered by Duane Trower at Weights & Measures Soundlab, KCMO. Additional recording by Odin Parada at Rec4 Studios, GDL. // Musically curious and multifaceted, Claire Adams is dedicated to collaborating, recording and songwriting to hone her melodic instincts and vision. A bassist, guitarist, singer and songwriter, Adams has lent a discerning ear and versatility to a number of projects. Claire founded the eight-piece genre-jumping collective Claire and the Crowded Stage – a project that united her pop sensibilities with non-traditional instrumentation. This project teamed her up with guitarist Katy Guillen and drummer Stephanie Williams, leading them to form the nationally touring blues-rock trio Katy Guillen & the Girls in 2012, with Adams on bass and backing vocals. In recent years Adams has been performing solo, collaborating with the KC based string quartet Rewound, and in a trio featuring pianist Alyssa Murray.[Claire Adams played The Ship, 1221 Union Ave, KCMO West Bottoms on April 11 opening for Fritz Hutchison & His Honky Tonk Band] [Claire Adams played The Gospel Lounge at Knuckleheads 2715 Rochester Ave. KCMO on April 14 with Jackie Myers and Fritz Hutchison. More info at: claireadamsmusic.com]

Daniel Gum – “Met You Too Soon”
from: Met You Too Soon – EP / Manor Records / December 13, 2024
[Here’s what Daniel had to say about this track: “This song was written reflecting on a past relationship—thinking things probably could have worked out if we met 5 years later than we did. Or maybe they wouldn’t have.. but I’ll never know. This song is a part of a series of singles leading up to my second album. I hope you enjoy the chord progressions and slide guitar especially”. // 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]

Kim Deal – “Coast”
from: Nobody Loves You More / 4AD / November 22, 2024
[Debut solo album by the American musician Kim Deal. It was released by 4AD, and promoted with the singles “Coast”, “Crystal Breath”, “A Good Time Pushed” and “Nobody Loves You More”. // Nobody Loves You More is Deal’s first solo album. It includes contributions from her sister Kelley Deal and other former Breeders collaborators, such as Jim MacPherson and Mando Lopez, as well as Savages’ Fay Milton and Ayse Hassan, Raymond McGinley of Teenage Fanclub, and the Raconteurs’ Jack Lawrence. // The album includes over a decade’s work, with its earliest songs dating back to 2011, shortly after Deal’s departure from the Pixies following their Lost Cities Tour. “Are You Mine?” and “Wish I Was” were written in 2011 and released in 2013 as part of a self-released seven-inch vinyl series in 2013. Steve Albini, a frequent collaborator, recorded “A Good Time Pushed” in the final sessions at Electrical Audio in Chicago before his death in May 2024. // Musically, Nobody Loves You More blends familiar Breeders-esque rock with surprising stylistic choices, such as bossa nova and brass instrumentation, as heard in the title track. Songs like “Disobedience” and “Big Ben Beat” evoke the energy of Breeders’ classics, while others, like “Wish I Was,” reimagine earlier material with fresh arrangements. Despite its eclectic nature, the album retains Deal’s style, offering both familiarity and innovation. // The album’s themes range from the deeply personal to whimsical inspirations. For instance, the poignant track “Are You Mine?” is inspired by a moment with Deal’s mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s. Conversely, “Crystal Breath” arose from Deal’s admiration for actress Rose Byrne, though the song’s intended purpose as a TV theme was ultimately declined. // Upon its release, Nobody Loves You More was well received by music critics. According to the review aggregator Metacritic, Nobody Loves You More received “universal acclaim” based on a weighted average score of 89 out of 100 from 11 critic scores. // The Quietus highlighted the range, from the vibrant, brass-infused bossa nova of the title track to the raw vulnerability of songs like “Are You Mine?” AllMusic added their ‘Editor’s Choice’ tag to the collection and stated “Nobody Loves You More is some of her finest music yet, and while any of these songs would’ve been a standout with one of her other projects, it’s all the sweeter that they’re hers alone”.]

Florist – “Have Heaven”
from: “Jellywish / Double Double Whammy / April 4, 2025
[“Have Heaven” is the first single from Florist’s upcoming album. // “Jellywish is billed as an exercise in imagining a world where magic is a daily companion, possibility is everywhere, and asking the difficult questions is rewarding.” – PITCHFORK // “Sprague’s gossamer vocals float atop a soft wash of hypnotic acoustic guitar strums—which sound almost harp-like—as effortlessly graceful as leaves skimming the top of a pond.” – PASTE // With their new album, New York minimalist folk quartet Florist invite listeners to question everything — to imagine a world where magic, surrealism, and the supernatural are our companions in day-to-day life. Jellywish, due April 4th on Double Double Whammy, dares to present a realm of possibility and imagination in a time that feels evermore prescriptive, limiting, and awful. // On Jellywish, Florist explores life’s big questions without offering silver linings, morals, or definitive answers. Instead, the band asks perhaps the most difficult of questions: Is it possible to break free from our ingrained thought cycles and pedestrian way of life? That, Florist posits, may be the only way to be truly happy, fulfilled, and free. // Singer, guitarist, and principal songwriter Emily Sprague says that the record is purposely complicated. “It’s a gentle delivery of something that is really chaotic, confusing, and multifaceted,” she explains. “It has this technicolor that’s inspired by our world and also fantasy elements that we can use to escape our world.” The album’s lead single “Have Heaven,” released today alongside a music video made by animator Kohana Wilson, is a perfect example of this cosmic alchemy the band conjures on Jellywish. // “We enter an observational fever dream about floating through liminal space between lifetimes, individual perceptions. There is reflection on our connectedness in joy and suffering through the wish for a peaceful place for our spirits to live and land,” Sprague explains. “‘Have Heaven’ establishes the world of the album to be not quite always lucid, but rather a perspective that is blended into the worlds of the magic and death realms swirling around us. The chorus is a chant that pleads for a better symbiosis between these worlds, and between our earthly forms trying to survive alongside each other, bound to the systems we must exist within.” // Jellywish is an exercise in multidimensional world building. The album’s panoramic cover art, which looks like something out of a Henry Darger volume, wraps the music in a collage of color that presents as science fiction-adjacent, hinting at something mysterious, fantastical, and mythological. Inside the album’s jacket, however, are tender and catchy sonic meditations on life’s most knotty subjects: life, death, earth, reality, relationships, joy, and pain. Taken together, Florist offers an acute sense of the band at this moment, one that worries about the world and its place in it. In contrast, it also presents an alternative to the doldrums of day-to-day life, and the necessary suggestion that very different things may be true at the same time. // With Jellywish, Florist offers a complex album in a time that is anything but simple. In mining the chaos and wonder of physical and spiritual worlds, the band holds a mirror to itself to the great benefit of all. It tells us that we are not alone, and challenges us to believe in magic.]

10:30 – Underwriting

Mike Dillon & Punkadelic – “Pandas”
from: Inflorescence / Royal Potato Family / January 27, 2023
[Punkadelick: Mike Dillon – Vibraphone, Marimba, Prophet 6, Congas, Bongo; Brain Haas – Fender Rhodes, Piano, Bass Moog, Melodica; Nikki Glaspie – Drums, Cymbals, Vocals. Mixed and Recorded by Chad Meise. Mastered by Collin Jordan / Boiler Room Mastering. Cover Art: Peregrine Honig. // From Bandcamp notes: Mike Dillon & Punkadelick makes its recorded debut with Inflorescence, an album of heady, instrumental rock highlighting a band deep in the throes of creative freedom, road tested and wild. Consisting of 10 tracks in 42-minutes, it’s an expansive, focused and fearless collection, representing a world where Duke Ellington and Augustus Pablo rub shoulders with crate-digger exotica, the freak-funk of Parliament and the ‘anything fits’ outsider ethos of acid-fried punks like The Meat Puppets. // A trio featuring Mike Dillon (Ricki Lee Jones, Ani DiFranco, Les Claypool) on vibraphone, marimba, Prophet 6, congas, and bongos, Brian Haas (Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey) on Fender Rhodes, piano, bass Moog and melodica and Nikki Glaspie (Beyonce) on drums, cymbals and vocals, Punkadelick is the unified vision of six hands creating a world that often sounds like the work of an ensemble three times the size. // During 2020 and 2021, while many music venues were still shuttered, the group began touring, sweating their way through cuts Dillon and Haas had composed during quarantine writing sessions. Locking in on stage, it quickly became clear the band was functioning at a level that made the hair on their arms stand at attention—even for three live music veterans accustomed to life on the road. // “It became obvious to let this become a collaboration,” Dillon says. “This is really something all three of us are doing because we have so much love for one another and a love for the music that we started creating.” // “There’s only three of us, but we move together like a big, nasty school of fish,” Haas adds, laughing. // During the tail end of a 2021 tour, the band booked time to record with engineer—and functioning fourth band member—Chad Meise, and Inflorescence sprouted. Opener “Desert Monsoon,” sets the stage with a spiritual-jazz intro of organ, vibraphone, percussion and wordless vocal coos before crackling to life as a swaggering funk strut. The title track, and “Pandas,” dig into thick dub textures built around Glaspie’s drumming and Haas’s subwoofer-straining bass synths. // “Apocalypse Daydream,” which appeared as an exotic head-nodder on 2020’s Shoot the Moon (titled “Apocalyptic Daydreams”) is reborn as a meatier jazz-rock slab where Dillon and Haas circle each other like Television performing as a lounge act on a cruise ship sailing seas of psilocybin. // Bending ears and surprising audiences has long been part of Dillon’s MO and Glaspie and Haas act as perfect foils for forays into the weird. While Dillon bristles at the “punk jazz” tag, punk rock and jazz remain core influences to the band, in sound and spirit. // “We’re students of the titans of music. We grew up listening to punk and rock ’n’ roll but we also love instrumental music—particularly the forefathers of Black American Music. In our minds, Led Zeppelin and Milt Jackson, Parliament-Funkadelic and The Minutemen, The Bad Brains and Frank Zappa are interconnected influences,” explains Dillon. “All that comes together in how we approach instrumental creative music. Both punk rock and jazz are not prefab things, they’re about the freedom. We have no genre restriction in this band, and people who get it really respect that.” // Maybe the greatest example of the band’s punk-steeped sonic free-for-all is “Slowly But Surely,” a track Dillon told Haas to compose as if he were “writing for Queens of the Stone Age.” The song plays like QOTSA translated to piano runs, vibes and deeply swinging drums—big-riff stoner rock upended and played with huge smiles by America’s premier proponents of the unclassifiable. // “We try to challenge our listeners. We’re touching a nerve with people who maybe don’t want to see the same songs done in the same variations all night long,” continues Dillon. “Part of my mission is taking these instruments that are primarily designed for the orchestral or jazz world and taking them to the rock world, the club world, running them through pedals and effects. We’re not afraid to be soft, or to surprise. That’s what we all do in this band — get beyond our own conceptions of what music is supposed to be.” // “We are so blessed and lucky to do what we do for a living — it’s apparent in the music,” Glaspie chimes in. “It doesn’t matter how the day is going, but we get to the club, set up and crush the gig, all the other stuff doesn’t matter. We’re likeminded individuals who love life, love people and want to spread happiness.”

10:35 – Interview with Mike Dillon

Mike Dillon was born in San Antonio, Texas. He is a percussionist, vibraphonist, bandleader, and vocalist. Mike has released over 12 solo records, and multiple albums with his other bands, many singles, and collaborations with Ricki Lee Jones, Ani DiFranco and others. He is a member of Mike Dillon & Punkadelick, Les Claypool’s Fancy Band and Garage A Trois. He has performed with Galactic, Brave Combo, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, Marco Benevento, Clutch, Claude Coleman Jr., and New Orleans musicians Kevin O’Day, Johnny Vidacovich and James Singleton. In the 1990s he led Dallas-based Billy Goat, after Billy Goat disbanded and he performed in the KC-based Malachy Papers and the Austin-based Hairy Apes BMX (HABMX). In 2006, Dillon started Mike Dillon’s Go-Go Jungle with members of Billy Goat, drummer Go-Go Ray, and bassist, J.J. Jungle. Dillon also performs with The Dead Kenny G’s, and The Fancy Trio. Dillon is married to artist Peregrine Honig. His current project, Mike Dillon & Punkadelic features Mike on vibraphone, ma-rimba, Prophet 6, congas, & bongos; Brian Haas (of Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey) on Fender Rhodes, piano, bass Moog & melodica; and Nikki Glaspie (of Beyonce) on drums, cymbals & vocals. Punkadelick released their 10-track instrumental rock, debut album, INFLORESCENCE on Royal Potato Family Records, on January 30, 2023. The album was produced with Chad Meise. More information at http://www.mikedillonvibes.com

Mike Dillon Thank you for being with us on WMM.

Mike Dillon is an American percussionist, vibraphonist, bandleader, and vocalist born in San Antonio, Texas. He is a member of Critters Buggin, Les Claypool’s Fancy Band and Garage A Trois.

In 2023 Mike Dillon called into our show from the road, where he was touring as a member of Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, with Les on vocals & guitar, Sean Lennon on guitar, Harry Waters on keyboards, Paulo Baldi on drums, Skerik on saxophone, and Mike Dillon on percussion. Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade played Grinders KC, on Friday, May 26.

Mike Dillon is based in New Orleans and Kansas City

Mike has produced albums for others including Rickie Lee Jones album Kicks.

He has performed with many musicians including Ani DiFranco, Galactic, Brave Combo, Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe, Marco Benevento, Clutch (band), Claude Coleman Jr., and New Orleans musicians Kevin O’Day, Johnny Vidacovich and James Singleton.

Dillon’s love of playing percussion was born out of his love for the band Rush as a teenager. He originally performed in the 1980s with local Dallas and Denton favorites Ten Hands.

In the 1990s he led Dallas-based Billy Goat, In the late 1990s, Billy Goat disbanded and he performed in the Kansas City-based Malachy Papers and the Austin-based Hairy Apes BMX (HABMX).

In 2006, Dillon started a project “Mike Dillon’s Go-Go Jungle” which included members of Billy Goat, drummer Go-Go Ray, and bassist, J.J. Jungle.

The live Go-Go Jungle also performs songs from Dillon’s prior projects. They released their second CD entitled Rock Star Bench Press in 2009.

Dillon contributed the majority of compositions to Garage A Trois’ Power Patriot CD released in 2009.

Dillon and saxophonist Skerik perform as a trio called “The Dead Kenny G’s” with alternate third members. National tours have included keyboardist Brian Haas and bassist Brad Houser. With Houser they have also toured as “Critters Buggin Trio”. They released a CD entitled Bewildered Herd in 2009. As a trio with bassist James Singleton, Dillon and Skerik have toured as “Illuminasti” and as a trio with Les Claypool they have been billed as “The Fancy Trio”.

Dillon is married to artist Peregrine Honig, whom he resides with in Kansas City and New Orleans, but a busy touring schedule keeps him on the road much of the time.

Discography
Black Frames Solarallergy (2002)
Mike Dillon (2003)
Mike Dillon’s Go-Go Jungle Battery Milk (2007)
The Dead Kenny G’s Bewildered Herd (2009)
Mike Dillon’s Go-Go Jungle Rock Star Bench Press (2009)
Mike Dillon and Earl Harvin People Gardens (2010 – recorded 2005)
The Dead Kenny G’s Operation Long Leash (2011)
Mike Dillon Urn (2012)
The Dead Kenny G’s Gorelick (2012)
DVS [Mike Dillon, Johnny Vidacovich, James Singleton] “Bones”
Mike Dillon Band of Outsider (2014)
Nolatet “Dogs” (2016)
Mike Dillon Functioning Broke (2016)
Mike Dillon Life is Not a Football (2017)
Nolatet No Revenge Necessary (2018)
Mike Dillon Bonobo (2018)
Mike Dillon Rosewood (2020)
Mike Dillon & Punkadelic Shoot the Moon (2021)
Mike Dillon & The Bad Decisions Suitcase Man (2021 )
Mike Dillon 1918 (2021)
Mike Dillon & Punkadelick Featuring Nikkie Glaspie and Brian Haas ‘’Inflorescence’’ (2023)

See also discographies
Billy Goat
Hairy Apes BMX
Malachy Papers
Critters Buggin
Garage A Trois
With others
Ten Hands Kung Fu … That’s What I Like (1988)
Ten Hands The Big One Is Coming (1989)
MC 900 Ft Jesus One Step Ahead of the Spider (1994)
Ten Hands The Big One That Got Away (1996)
Pigface The Best of Pigface: Preaching to the Perverted (2001)
Karl Denson The Bridge (2002)
Les Claypool Purple Onion (2002)
Les Claypool Of Whales and Woe (2006)
Ani DiFranco Canon (2007)
Marco Benevento Live at Tonic (2007)
Ani DiFranco Red Letter Year (2008)
Santogold Santogold (2008)
Les Claypool Of Fungi and Foe (2009)
Ani Difranco “Which Side Are You On” (2012)
Wavves “Afraid of Heights” (2013)
Secret Chiefs 3 (Ishraqiyun) Perichoresis (2014)
Primus Primus & the Chocolate Factory with the Fungi Ensemble (2014)
Karl Denson New Ammo (2014)
The Revivalist Men Amongst Mountains (2015)
Stanton Moore “With You in Mind” (2017)
Robert Walter’s 20th Congress Spacesuit (2018)
Clutch Book of Bad Decisions (2018)
The Dean Ween Group rock2 (2018)
Rickie Lee Jones Kicks 2019
Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe Gnomes and Badgers (2019)
The Iceman Special Circular Purple Circus (2021)

Mike Dillon & Punkadelic– “Run White Boy Run (feat. Calvin Arsenia)”
from: Run White Boy Run / Royal Potato Family / February 14, 2025
[Run White Boy Run presents Mike Dillon with his ever fierce and subversive trio Punkadelick, featuring keyboardist Brian Haas and drummer Nikki Glaspie. This time around the fearless vibraphonist/percussionist — whose resume runs from Les Claypool to Garage A Trois, Ani DiFranco to Rickie Lee Jones — takes on Cumbia, a Latin American style of music that originated in Colombia in the 1800s, and injects it with his own patented no-holds-barred, punk jazz vision. He’s joined along the way on this provocative musical rollercoaster ride by special guests including David Shaw (The Revivalist), Tiff Lampson (Givers), Steve Berlin (Los Lobos) and Shane Theriot (Hall & Oates). All songs written by Mike Dillon, Brian Haas, and Peregrine Honig. (except for “I Want To Be Your Dog” – The Stooges) Mixed and Recorded by Chad Meise]

10:48 – More interview with Mike Dillon

Mike Dillon has released over 12 solo records, multiple albums with his other bands, many singles, and collaborations with Ricki Lee Jones, Ani DiFranco and others. More information at http://www.mikedillonvibes.com

Mike’s band, Mike Dillon & Punkadelic features Mike on vibraphone, ma-rimba, Prophet 6, congas, & bongos; Brian Haas (of Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey) on Fender Rhodes, piano, bass Moog & melodica; and Nikki Glaspie (of Beyonce) on drums, cymbals & vocals.

Punkadelick released their 10-track instrumental rock, debut album, INFLORESCENCE on Royal Potato Family Records, on January 30, 2023.

The album was produced with Chad Meise.

A trio featuring Mike Dillon (Ricki Lee Jones, Ani DiFranco, Les Claypool) on vibraphone, marimba, Prophet 6, congas, and bongos, Brian Haas (Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey) on Fender Rhodes, piano, bass Moog and melodica and Nikki Glaspie (Beyonce) on drums, cymbals and vocals, Punkadelick is the unified vision of six hands creating a world that often sounds like the work of an ensemble three times the size.

Mike Dillon on The Road

JAN 18 SAT
The Maple Leaf- The New Fuck Yeahs @ 10:00 PM
New Orleans, LA, United States

FEB 22 SAT
No So Super Hero Ball- The New Fuck Yeahs- Carrolton Station @ 9:00 PM
New Orleans, LA, United States

FEB 28 FRI
Mike Dillon, Brian Haas, Otto Schrang @ 9:00 PM
New Orleans, LA, United States

MAR 4 TUE
The New Fuck Yeahs- The Blue Nile mardi Gras Day @ 7:00 PM
New Orleans, LA, United States

MAR 21 FRI
Punkadelick- Jack London Revue- Brian Haas, Nikki Glaspie, Mike D Portland, Or @ 9:00 PM
Brian HaasNikki Glaspie Fan Page
Portland, OR, United States

MAR 21 FRI
Punkadelick- Jack London Revue- Brian haas, Nikki Glaspie, Mike D Portland, Or @ 9:00 PM
Brian Haas
Portland, OR, United States

MAR 22 SAT
Punkadelick and OG McTuff- High Dive Settle @ 8:00 PM
Brian HaasNikki Glaspie Fan Page
Seattle, WA, United States

More information at http://www.mikedillonvibes.com

During 2020 and 2021, while many music venues were still shuttered, the group began touring, sweating their way through cuts Dillon and Haas had composed during quarantine writing sessions. Locking in on stage, it quickly became clear the band was functioning at a level that made the hair on their arms stand at attention—even for three live music veterans accustomed to life on the road.

“It became obvious to let this become a collaboration,” Dillon says. “This is really something all three of us are doing because we have so much love for one another and a love for the music that we started creating.” // “There’s only three of us, but we move together like a big, nasty school of fish,” Haas adds, laughing.

During the tail end of a 2021 tour, the band booked time to record with engineer—and functioning fourth band member—Chad Meise, and Inflorescence sprouted. Opener The title track, and “Pandas,” dig into thick dub textures built around Glaspie’s drumming and Haas’s subwoofer-straining bass synths.

Bending ears and surprising audiences has long been part of Dillon’s MO and Glaspie and Haas act as perfect foils for forays into the weird. While Dillon bristles at the “punk jazz” tag, punk rock and jazz remain core influences to the band, in sound and spirit. // “We’re students of the titans of music. We grew up listening to punk and rock ’n’ roll but we also love instrumental music—particularly the forefathers of Black American Music. In our minds, Led Zeppelin and Milt Jackson, Parliament-Funkadelic and The Minutemen, The Bad Brains and Frank Zappa are interconnected influences,” explains Dillon. “All that comes together in how we approach instrumental creative music. Both punk rock and jazz are not prefab things, they’re about the freedom. We have no genre restriction in this band, and people who get it really respect that.”

Maybe the greatest example of the band’s punk-steeped sonic free-for-all is “Slowly But Surely,” a track Dillon told Haas to compose as if he were “writing for Queens of the Stone Age.” The song plays like QOTSA translated to piano runs, vibes and deeply swinging drums—big-riff stoner rock upended and played with huge smiles by America’s premier proponents of the unclassifiable.

“We try to challenge our listeners. We’re touching a nerve with people who maybe don’t want to see the same songs done in the same variations all night long,” continues Dillon. “Part of my mission is taking these instruments that are primarily designed for the orchestral or jazz world and taking them to the rock world, the club world, running them through pedals and effects. We’re not afraid to be soft, or to surprise. That’s what we all do in this band — get beyond our own conceptions of what music is supposed to be.”

Mike Dillon was a percussionist with Billy Goat, and was one third of influential and acclaimed band, The Malachi Papers.

Mike Dillon Thank you for being with us on WMM.

More information at http://www.mikedillonvibes.com

10:57

Malachi Papers – “Jane and Brad”
from: Backbelly / reapandsow, Inc / January 1, 2003
[Mike Dillon on Percussion, Vibraphone, Mark Southerland on Saxophone, Brad Houser, Johnny Hamil on bass, E Clarke Wyatt on keyboards, Joe Max on Turntables, Earl Harvin o drums. Recorded by Chad Meise, Mastered by E Clarke Wyatt, Cover art by Peregrine Honig

11:00 – Station ID

We play two more tracks from a new project from music production non-profit Red Hot, TRAИƧA is a spiritual journey across eight chapters and 46 songs with over 100 artists contributing. The album spotlights many of the most daring, imaginative trans and non-binary artists working today.

Mary Lattimore, MIZU & Jamal Shakeri– “I. Midnight Moon Pool (Womb Of The Soul) [feat. Laraaji]”
from: TRAИƧA / Red Hot / November 22, 2024
[One of the most ambitious projects ever undertaken by the storied activist and music production non-profit Red Hot, TRAИƧA is a spiritual journey across eight chapters and 46 songs with over 100 artists contributing. The album spotlights the gifts of many of the most daring, imaginative trans and non-binary artists working today. // Dust Reid, who led production on Red Hot’s 2014 tribute to Arthur Russell, and Massima Bell, an artist and activist based in Los Angeles, began tracing the contours of what would become TRAИƧA together in 2021. The two producers originally met at a video shoot in upstate New York, and immediately bonded over their shared love of Beverly Glenn-Copeland’s music, as well as a common devotional connection to nature. // The passing of SOPHIE, the pathbreaking electronic producer who died in January 2021, galvanized the producers and focused their work. “We started talking about all the gifts that trans artists have been giving to the world, and wanted to create a Red Hot project that centered and celebrated those gifts,” says Reid. “We hoped to create a narrative that positions trans and non-binary people as leaders in our society insofar as the deep inner work they do to affirm who they are in our current climate. We felt this is something everybody should do. Whether you identify as trans or non-binary or otherwise, if you took the time to explore your gender, get in touch with the feeling side of yourself, maybe we would have a future oriented around values of community, collaboration, care, and healing.” // Bell and Reid began conceiving of the album as a spiritual journey in eight chapters, a mirror of the original eight-stripe rainbow pride flag. The narrative begins at the earliest awareness of consciousness; moves through awakening, trauma, and grief; and arrives at liberation and continual reinvention. “One thing trans people do all the time is turn grief into possibility,” says Bell. “Living under the ongoing Western binary system, trans people reveal maps of possibility for everyone. It’s something that we can all learn from – expanding the possibility of human life.” Each chapter begins with a “chapter track,” kicking off a collection of songs that speak to that chapter’s theme. // As the producers began inviting musicians to contribute to TRAИƧA, the political climate in the United States and across the world started to foment an acute reactionary streak. Legislation denying trans people the hard-won right to medically transition proliferated across the country. Book bans rained down on libraries, stamping shut crucial apertures into trans and queer lives. The necessity of TRAИƧA’s presence in the world started to crystallize. // “The stakes have never been higher,” notes Bell. “We’re seeing a rise in anti-trans hate and vitriol that is particularly being spewed in the United States. I am a trans person from Iowa, one of the states that signed into law a bill that prohibits access to gender-affirming care. It is clearly, materially, a terrifying time.” // TRAИƧA FEATURED ARTISTS:Adrianne Lenker * Ahya Simone * Alan Sparhawk (Low) * Allison Russell * Am Taylor * Anajah * Ana Roxanne * André 3000 * Anjimile * Arthur Baker * Asher White * AV María * Babehoven * Bartees Strange * Belina Rose * Benét * Beverly Glenn-Copeland * Bill Callahan * Blake Mills * Bloomsday * Calvin Lauber * Caroline Rose * Cassandra Croft * Cassandra Jenkins * Christian Lee Hutson * claire rousay * Clairo * CLARITY * Cole Pulice * Dave Longstreth * Devendra Banhart * Eileen Myles * Eli Winter * Elizabeth Glenn-Copeland * Ezra Furman * Faye Webster * Fleet Foxes * Frankie Cosmos * Gary Gunn * Gia Margaret * Green-House * Grouper * Hand Habits * Heart Shaped * Helado Negro * Hunter Schafer * Jamal Shakeri * Jay Dee Daugherty * Jayne County * Jeff Tweedy * Jlin * Joy Guidry * Julianna Barwick * Julie Byrne * Julien Baker * Kara Jackson * Kathi Wilcox * KB Brookins * Kelela * Laraaji * Laura Jane Grace * Lauren Auder * Lee Ranaldo * Lightning Bug * Lomelda * Lucy Liyou * Lynn Avery * Lyra Pramuk * L’Rain * Mary Lattimore * MIZU * Moor Mother * More Eaze * Moses Sumney * Nico Georis * Niecy Blues * Nina Keith * Nsámbu Za Suékama * NYC Trans Oral History Project * Pepper MaShay * Perfume Genius * Pharoah Sanders * Quinn Christopherson * Rachika Nayar * Sade Adu * Sam Smith * Sharon Van Etten * SKY * SOAK * Soft Rōnin * Sparkle Division * Taryn Blake Miller * Teddy Geiger * Time Wharp * Wendy & Lisa of the Revolution * Yaeji * Yaya Bey]

Yaya Bey – “A Survivor’s Guilt”
from: TRAИƧA / Red Hot / November 22, 2024
[Hidaiyah “Yaya” Bey is an American rhythm and blues musician from Brooklyn. // Bey released her first album in 2020 titled Madison Tapes. Bey released an EP titled The Things I Can’t Take With Me the following year, through Big Dada. Bey released her second full-length album on June 16, 2022. The album received “Best New Music” from Pitchfork upon release. // Bey is the daughter of hip hop artist, Grand Daddy I.U.]

Discography
Studio albums
The Many Alter-Egos of Trill’eta Brown (2016, Elevated)
This Too… (2019, Elevated)
Madison Tapes (2020, Elevated)
Remember Your North Star (2022, Big Dada)
Ten Fold (2024, Big Dada)

EPs
The Things I Can’t Take with Me (2021, Big Dada)
Exodus the North Star (2023, Big Dada)

Piney Gir – “Show Me The Lightning”
from: “Show Me The Lightning” – Single / No Distance Records / September 20, 2024
[Written by Piney Gir. Piney Gir on vocals, percussion; Garo Nahoulakian on guitars, bass, percussion, key; Mike Monaghan on drums, percussion; Tomas Greenhalf on keys, saxophone. Produced and Mixed by Tomas Greenhalf at Direktorenhaus. Mastered by Kevin Tuffy at Manmade Mastering. Artwork by Tim Benton.. // Piney Gir (pronounced “gear”), often shortened to Piney, is an American musician and singer, born in Kansas but based in London, England since 1998. She has released seven studio albums. // Piney’s musical style is predominately edgy indie-pop, although she has been described both as a musical “chameleon” and as “the indie Dolly Parton” and “Transatlantic Pop Guru” . // Piney was raised in the Bible Belt of Midwest America and was sheltered from most secular music and culture growing up. She took piano lessons from the age of four and sang every week in church. As a teenager, Piney rebelled against this upbringing embracing all types of music, which may later explain her ability to write and create all genres of music. She then went to UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance where she majored in music, firstly playing drums and pitched percussion, but then changing her major to voice. When she moved to London, she went to Central Saint Martins and took some night classes while doing temp jobs by day; working in bars and clubs at night, she then joined synth pop duo Vic Twenty. Vic Twenty released a single on Mute records sub label Credible Sexy Units and toured the UK and Europe with Erasure. It was at Truck Festival that Truck Records saw Piney play the Trailer Park Stage and offered her a record deal in 2003, the start of her prolific career as a solo artist. // Piney is an established figure on the London music scene, and has toured the UK, Europe and America extensively. Among others, she has supported Gaz Coombes, Ride, Erasure, Wanda Jackson, The Hidden Cameras and The Research and she’s played many festivals around the UK, US and Europe including appearances at Glastonbury festival on the Park Stage and South by Southwest. She has collaborated with many successful artists, including Andy Ramsay of Stereolab; Rob Campanella from The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Eamon Hamilton from the band Brakes and British Sea Power; Sweet Baboo, Willie J Healey, Angela Correa of Correatown, The Real Tuesday Weld, and Simple Kid. // Piney sings in Gaz Coombes’s band and is a singer with Noel Gallagher. She has also sung with Garth Hudson from The Band and regularly sings with Dream Themes and Ralfe Band (both live and on their records). She also sang on the Corona Virus themed Disco album “Stayin’ Alive” with Rhodri Marsden. Piney is a backing singer on Danny Goffey’s forthcoming solo album as well as singing on Lawrence’s new Go-Kart Mozart (album release date TBC).]

Art d’Ecco – “True Believer”
from: Serene Demom / Paper Bag Records/ July 23, 2019
[Serene Demon may be Art d’Ecco’s most ambitious album to date, but fans won’t struggle to recognize his handiwork. For all its hints of mystery, opener “True Believer” picks up the thread of last summer’s non-album single “I Feel Alive.” The push-and-pull of “Tree of Life” could’ve easily propelled it into heavy MTV rotation in the heyday of the Psychedelic Furs, while the slinky “Shell Shock” and its Roland SH-2000 synth grooves evokes memories of Steve Miller’s “Fly Like An Eagle.” Even the audacious title tune is carefully sequenced between a moody instrumental (“Meursault’s Walk,” a nod to Camus’ The Stranger) and an upbeat pop tune (“Honeycomb”) embellished with steel drum. // Like Bowie and Björk, Miles Davis and Kate Bush, Art d’Ecco intends to keep nudging his listeners forward, prompting them to explore – and accept – unfamiliar ideas. “Once you’ve trained the ear of the audience, it establishes a new precedent,” he concludes. Tastes change and evolve, and outliers mature into icons. “That moves pop music forward in the most beautiful, organic way, and I’m constantly trying to exist within that paradigm. How do I challenge myself and throw the rule book out, but still make this the catchiest, quirkiest piece of music possible? I like existing between those two worlds.” // Great pop music accommodates big ideas and simple truths with equal finesse, but don’t expect a record – even one as ambitious as Serene Demon – to solve all life’s mysteries. “If you’re constantly searching for answers or hope to bestow any relevance to the existence that you’re living, then take a pause and realize that life is happening right now,” concludes Art. “You don’t need to constantly defer happiness. Just exist in the moment.” // Based in British Columbia, “There’s more than a little David Bowie in both the sonic and fashion leanings of Art d’Ecco, a performer who fluidly crosses musical and gender lines, creating highly memorable tracks — and sporting an unforgettable look. Often labelled “neo glam,” the music boasts hints of everything from ’50s pop to psychedelics, from Velvet Underground-era art rock to Grimes-inspired electronics.” – CBC Music Art d’Ecco freleased the album Trespasser on Paper Bag Records on October 12, 2018. When d’Ecco moved into his grandmother’s cottage on one of the islands, he hadn’t planned on creating a new project. But, as it often does, circumstance charted his course. His grandmother, living with Alzheimer’s, suffered a related phenomenon called ‘sundowning,’ which triggers increased agitation and anxiety around sunset. “The only way to calm this lady down was to sit down at the piano,” says d’Ecco. He would play “Bohemian Rhapsody,” passing it off as Beethoven. After she was relocated, d’Ecco remained in the empty house where he had played as a child. Draped in memory, he gravitated toward the piano, spending the long, lonesome, quiet nights on the bench before the instrument. This is where Art d’Ecco was created. He relocated to a new cottage, built a studio and barricaded himself with copies of Deerhunter’s Cryptograms, Bowie’s Low, and choice krautrock records. In this solitude, d’Ecco would chase tones for hours. The result is a richly-realized confluence of the ferocious spark of those trailblazers and a distinct sadness, with d’Ecco as mad scientist, stitching together these delicious fragments and animating them.]

11:15 – Tribute to Nile Rodgers

Michelle Bacon joins us in a few minutes to share details about The Band That Fell To Earth who’ll perform David Bowie’s album, Let’s Dance, as a Special VIP Benefit, on Thursday, January 23 at 8:00 at at recordBar. As we focus on David Bowie’s biggest selling album “Let’s Dance” we have to recognize the contribution of Nile Rodgers.

Nile Rodgers Jr. who was born September 19, 1952 The co-founder of Chic, he has written, produced, and performed on records that have sold more than 500 million albums and 75 million singles worldwide.

He produced David Bowie‘s biggest selling album, Let’s Dance, which yielded the hit singles “Let’s Dance”, “China Girl”, and “Modern Love”. He produced the single “Original Sin” by INXS, and in 1984, he produced Madonna‘s album Like a Virgin, which scored four hit singles including its title track, “Material Girl”, and “Dress You Up”. He worked extensively with Duran Duran, remixing their biggest-selling single, “The Reflex”, producing “Wild Boys” on their 1984 live album, Arena, and co-producing the album Notorious. Rodgers produced albums for Sheena Easton, Jeff Beck, Thompson Twins, Mick Jagger, and others, and performed at Live Aid with Madonna and the Thompson Twins. At the end of the decade, he produced albums for Grace Jones, Al Jarreau, Earth Wind and Fire’s vocalist Philip Bailey, and performed on “Higher Love” with Steve Winwood, as well as on records for Cyndi Lauper, and others. In 1989, he co-produced the B-52’s multi-platinum album Cosmic Thing; it reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200 album chart, and yielded the singles “Love Shack”, and “Roam”. He produced Workin’ Overtime, Diana Ross‘ return to Motown, and the soundtracks for Alphabet City, Gremlins, White Nights, and The Fly. He later composed an orchestral soundtrack, his first, for the film Coming to America.

Bowie met Nile Rodgers of the American band Chic in the after-hours New York nightclub Continental, where the two developed a rapport over industry acquaintances and shared musical interests; he eventually asked him to produce his next record. // “Let’s Dance” was the first song recorded for the album. The sessions, co-produced by Bowie and Rodgers, took place at the Power Station in New York City during the first three weeks of December 1982. Engineered by Bob Clearmountain, the song was completed in one or two takes and set the tone for the rest of the project. The rest of the album was recorded quickly, completed in just 17 days. Contributing additional guitar overdubs towards the end of the sessions was Stevie Ray Vaughan, a then-unknown 28-year-old Texas blues guitarist, whom Bowie hired after seeing him play at the 1982 Montreux Jazz Festival. Bowie praised his guitar playing, saying: “He’s got a whole other thing going on.” He used a Fender Stratocaster plugged into an old Fender amplifier.

11:18

Laurie Anderson – “Language is a Virus”
from: Home of The Brave / Warners Brothers / May 26, 1986
[Produced by Nile Rodgers. Home of the Brave is the third studio album and first soundtrack album by avant-garde artist Laurie Anderson, released in 1986 by Warner Bros. Records. The album is a soundtrack of her concert film of the same name. // Three of the eight tracks on the album were recorded in the studio and thus differ considerably from the filmed versions. A music video for “Language Is a Virus” was produced, using the soundtrack studio recording but footage of the live performance. // Two songs on the album were remakes of earlier works: “Language Is a Virus” was originally titled “Language is a virus from outer space – William S. Burroughs” and was performed on Anderson’s earlier United States Live (the soundtrack album omits the song’s spoken word introduction, “Difficult Listening Hour”, which had appeared on United States Live and which was also performed in the film). “Sharkey’s Night” is a song from Anderson’s previous album, Mister Heartbreak. However this rendition is performed by Anderson herself (the original was vocalized by William S. Burroughs) as it is in the film. Burroughs’ voice is heard on the track “Late Show,” however. The soundtrack album omits the other live performances of songs from Mister Heartbreak that were featured in the movie. // An alternate, faster-paced version of “Smoke Rings” was recorded for release as a possible single, but there is no indication it was ever issued; it can be heard during Anderson’s made-for-TV short film What You Mean We? // Laura Phillips “Laurie” Anderson (born June 5, 1947) is an American avant-garde artist, musician and filmmaker whose work spans performance art, pop music, and multimedia projects. Initially trained in violin and sculpting, Anderson pursued a variety of performance art projects in New York City during the 1970s, focusing particularly on language, technology, and visual imagery. She achieved unexpected commercial success when her song “O Superman” reached number two on the UK singles chart in 1981. // Anderson’s debut studio album Big Science was released in 1982 and has since been followed by a number of studio and live albums. She starred in and directed the 1986 concert film Home of the Brave. Anderson’s creative output has also included theatrical and documentary works, voice acting, art installations, and a CD-ROM. She is a pioneer in electronic music and has invented several musical devices that she has used in her recordings and performance art shows. // Laura Phillips Anderson was born in Chicago on June 5, 1947, and grew up in the nearby suburb of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, one of eight children born to Mary Louise (née Rowland) and Arthur T. Anderson. Growing up, she spent weekends studying painting at the Art Institute of Chicago and played with the Chicago Youth Symphony. // She graduated from Glenbard West High School. She attended Mills College in California, and after moving to New York in 1966, graduated in 1969 from Barnard College with a B.A. magna cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, studying art history. In 1972, she obtained an M.F.A. in sculpture from Columbia University. // Her first performance-art piece — a symphony played on automobile horns — was performed in 1969. In 1970, she drew the underground comix Baloney Moccasins, which was published by George DiCaprio. In the early 1970s, she worked as an art instructor, as an art critic for magazines such as Artforum, and illustrated children’s books—the first of which was titled The Package, a mystery story in pictures alone.]

Nile Rodgers talks about making “Lets Dance”

David Bowie – “Let’s Dance” (Single Version)
from: Let’s Dance / EMI America / April 14, 1983
[Let’s Dance was co-produced by Chic’s Nile Rodgers, the album contained three of his most successful singles; the title track, “Let’s Dance”, reached No. 1 in the US, “Modern Love” and “China Girl” both reached No. 2 in the UK. “China Girl” was a new version of a song which Bowie had co-written with Iggy Pop for the 1977 album The Idiot. The album also contains a re-recorded version of the song “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” which had been a minor hit for Bowie a year earlier. Let’s Dance was a stepping stone for the career of the Texas blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan, who played on it. Let’s Dance has sold over 10.7 million copies worldwide, making it Bowie’s best-selling album. Let’s Dance is Bowie’s 18th official album release since his debut in 1967, including two live albums, one covers album (Pin Ups, 1973), and a collaboration with the Philadelphia Orchestra (1977). The success of the album surprised Bowie, who felt he had to continue to pander to the new pop audience he acquired with the album. This led to Bowie releasing two further solo albums in 1984 and 1987 that, despite their relative commercial success, did not sell as well as Let’s Dance, were poorly received by critics at the time and subsequently dismissed by Bowie himself as his “Phil Collins years”. Bowie would form the hard rock and grunge-predecessor band Tin Machine in 1989 in an effort to rejuvenate himself artistically. David Bowie had planned to use producer Tony Visconti on the album, as the two had worked together on Bowie’s previous four studio albums. However, he chose Nile Rodgers for the project, a move that came as a surprise to Visconti, who had set time aside to work on Let’s Dance. Visconti called [Bowie’s personal assistant] Coco and she said: “Well, you might as well know – he’s been in the studio for the past two weeks with someone else. It’s working out well and we won’t be needing you. He’s very sorry.” The move damaged the two men’s relationship and Visconti did not work with Bowie again for nearly 20 years (until 2002’s Heathen). Rodgers later recalled that Bowie approached him to produce his album so that Bowie could have hit singles. Rodgers reported that Bowie came into his apartment one day and showed him a photograph of Little Richard in a red suit getting into a bright red Cadillac, saying “Nile, darling, that’s what I want my album to sound like.”]

11:30 – Underwriting

David Bowie – “Without You”
from: Let’s Dance / EMI America / April 14, 1983
[Let’s Dance was co-produced by Chic’s Nile Rodgers, the album contained three of his most successful singles; the title track, “Let’s Dance”, reached No. 1 in the US, “Modern Love” and “China Girl” both reached No. 2 in the UK. “China Girl” was a new version of a song which Bowie had co-written with Iggy Pop for the 1977 album The Idiot. The album also contains a re-recorded version of the song “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” which had been a minor hit for Bowie a year earlier.

11:04 – Interview with Michelle Bacon

Multi-talented musician and writer, Michelle Bacon, 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 Other Americans, Katy Guillen & The Drive, The Philistines, Heidi Lynne Gluck, Chris Meck and the Guilty Birds, The Blackbird Revue, Dolls on Fire, John L. Johnson, the Nathan Corsi Band, Freight Train Rabbit Killer, Erica Joy, Deco Auto, and several others.

Michelle is also the leader of The Band That Fell To Earth who will present the 9th Annual 3-day Tribute to Davie Bowie. The Band That Fell To Earth will perform David Bowie’s album, Let’s Dance, as a Special VIP Benefit, on Thursday, January 23 at 8:00 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd., KCMO.

The Band That Fell To Earth will continue with Bowie Tribute shows on Friday & Saturday, January 24 & 25, at 8:00 PM at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO.

A portion of each ticket sale will go to MOCSA, as well as proceeds from a live charity auction held at the final show. But it’s never too late to donate — visit http://www.mocsa.org.
Tickets available at: https://linktr.ee/bowiekcmo.

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

This is the 9th year The Band That Fell To Earth is celebrating the music of Bowie with a “Super Group” of KC’s finest musicians organized and led by Michelle Bacon.

The Band That Fell To Earth KC is KC’s premier annual David Bowie tribute event

Michelle Bacon is the producer of The Band That Fell To Earth: A Tribute to David Bowie.

The Band That Fell To Earth KC

Michelle Bacon – bass
Alex Alexander – guitar
Nathan Corsi – vocals/guitar
Kyle Dahlquist – keys
Katy Guillen – guitar
Steve Tulipana – vocals
Stephanie Williams – drums
Havilah Bruders – backing vocals
Seyko Groves – backing vocals
Christine Broxterman – cello
Laurel Morgan – Parks – violin
Rich Wheeler – saxophone
Matt Ronan – percussion

This year, The Band That Fell To Earth is raising money for Metropolitan Organization Countering Sexual Assault Kansas City! For nearly 50 years, MOCSA KC has been a vital resource in the metro that offers support, healing and hope to those impacted by sexual violence. A portion of each ticket sale from our concerts goes to MOCSA, as well as proceeds from a live charity auction held at the final show. But it’s never too late to donate — visit http://www.mocsa.org.

ALL tix available at http://linktr.ee/bowiekcmo

18+ / minors allowed with guardian

7 pm VIP doors
7:30 pm GA doors
8:00 pm show starts

Each night will contain a different set list, and special guests,.

Special guests:
Friday, Jan. 26 – Chase The Horseman, Cassie Taylor, Steddy P
Saturday, Jan, 27 – Ivory Blue, Katie Gilchrist, Jordan Smith

This is the 9th year The Band That Fell To Earth is celebrating the music of Bowie with a “Super Group” of KC’s finest musicians organized and led by Michelle Bacon.

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

The Band That Fell To Earth who will present the 9th Annual 3-day Tribute to Davie Bowie. The Band That Fell To Earth will perform David Bowie’s album, Let’s Dance, as a Special VIP Benefit, on Thursday, January 23 at 8:00 at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd., KCMO.

The Band That Fell To Earth will continue with Bowie Tribute shows on Friday & Saturday, January 24 & 25, at 8:00 PM at recordBar, 1520 Grand Blvd. KCMO.

David Bowie – “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)”
from: Let’s Dance / EMI America / April 14, 1983
[Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” is a song recorded by the English singer-songwriter David Bowie as the title track of the 1982 erotic horror film Cat People. Bowie became involved with the track after director Paul Schrader reached out to him about collaborating. The song was recorded at Mountain Studios in Montreux, Switzerland in July 1981. Bowie wrote the lyrics, which reflected the film, while the Italian producer Giorgio Moroder composed the music. // The song was released as a single by Moroder’s label MCA Records in March 1982, appearing in different edits between the 7″ and 12″ releases, alongside edits for other countries. It also appeared on the accompanying soundtrack album. The single was a commercial success, charting in the UK and the US, and topping the charts in New Zealand, Sweden, Norway and Finland. It is considered one of Bowie’s finest recordings of the 1980s. The song has since appeared on numerous compilation albums and was remastered in 2017 for inclusion on the A New Career in a New Town (1977–1982) box set. // Unhappy with the original recording, Bowie remade the track for his 15th studio album Let’s Dance (1983), recording it at the Power Station in New York City in December 1982. Featuring production by Chic member Nile Rodgers and lead guitar by blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan, the remake is more aggressive. Despite the remake being the more well-known version due to its parent album’s success, some critics have expressed a preference for the original recording. The remake was remastered in 2018 as part of the Loving the Alien (1983–1988) box set. // Director Paul Schrader reached out to David Bowie in 1980 to collaborate for the theme song of his remake of the Jacques Tourneur horror film Cat People (1942). Biographer Chris O’Leary describes the original film as “a subtle exploration of sexual repression and xenophobia”, while he calls the remake a “gory fashion spread”. Italian producer Giorgio Moroder had already recorded most of the music at Carla Ridge Camp in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, so Bowie was approached to write the lyrics to the main theme. Bowie met with Moroder in July 1981 at Mountain Studios in Montreaux, Switzerland to record “Cat People”.During the same session, Bowie ran into the English rock band Queen, who were recording their 1982 album Hot Space. After recording backing vocals for their song “Cool Cat”, the session resulted in the collaboration “Under Pressure”. // Musically, “Cat People” has been described as new wave. In keeping with the dark tone of the film, the song has some goth rock influences, with Bowie singing in a deep baritone croon while being backed up by a female chorus. Bowie’s octave leap on the word “gasoline” has been called “a magnificent moment” and “among the most thrilling moments he ever committed to tape”. Moroder’s music is built around several chord changes, including C minor. Bowie’s lyrics reflect the film’s pretensions, taking influence from his prior songs “Sound and Vision” (1977) and “It’s No Game” (1980), such as the line “those who feel me near / pull the blinds and change their minds”. Regarding the film, Bowie said: “It works on a dream state, it feels like the kind of thing you go through at night. That’s the way I look at it lyrically”. // “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” was released as a single on 12 March 1982. Because of Moroder’s contract, the single was issued by MCA Records. The B-side was “Paul’s Theme (Jogging Chase)”, a Moroder composition from the Cat People soundtrack. The single appeared in numerous different edits. The full-length 6:45 version appeared on the soundtrack album and the 12″ single, while a 4:08 edited version was made for the 7″ release. In Australia, a 9:20 edit, featuring additional saxophone and synthesiser, was released on a 12″ single. Other edits made included a 3:18 edit for American and German promos and a 3:08 edit for Dutch promos. A 4:55 mix appears in the Cat People film itself, with additional panther roars. // Upon release, the single was a commercial success. The 7″ single reached number 26 on the UK Singles Chart, remaining on the chart for six weeks, and at number 13 in Canada. In the US, the 7″ single charted on three different Billboard charts: it peaked at number 67 on the Pop Singles chart, remaining there for 10 weeks; at number 9 on the Mainstream Rock chart, remaining there for 20 weeks; and at number 14 on the Club Play Singles chart, remaining there for 16 weeks. In other countries, it peaked at number 1 in New Zealand, remaining there for three weeks, as well as in Sweden for four weeks. It was also number 1 in Norway for seven consecutive weeks, and then returned to the top for a further week. The single also peaked at number 1 in Finland. // An RCA executive believed that the collaboration would result in a more “user-friendly” album like Young Americans (1975). The executive told a colleague: “If it isn’t too much trouble, it would be nice if DB went into the studio and recorded a real album”. He did not, instead acting in the Alan Clarke play Baal and appeared in more films, including The Hunger and Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence, both released in 1983. // Alongside appearing on the accompanying soundtrack album in 1982, “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” has been released on various compilation albums. The full-length version appeared on the US release Bowie: The Singles 1969–1993 in 1993, on the 2003 edition of Bowie’s Sound + Vision collection, and on Re:Call 3, part of the A New Career in a New Town (1977–1982) boxed set, in 2017. The shorter 7″ single edit has appeared on some versions of Best of Bowie (2002) and on The Platinum Collection (2005). // After leaving RCA Records and signing a new deal with EMI America Records in late 1982, Bowie wanted to start fresh with a new producer. Wanting a commercial sound, he chose Nile Rodgers of the rock band Chic, one of the most commercially successful bands of the late 1970s. After demoing tracks in Montreux, Switzerland, recording for Let’s Dance began at the Power Station in New York City during the first three weeks of December 1982. // Bowie had been unhappy with Moroder’s backing track for “Cat People”, telling Rodgers that he wanted to remake it. Rodgers stated in 1984: “The way ‘Cat People’ came out on the soundtrack really bothered him. He didn’t like it at all. He played me his original demo and I said, ‘Wow, that’s the way ‘Cat People’ goes?'” For the re-recording, Rodgers made it cut time “but kept the same tempo so [Bowie] could sing the vocal the same way and the band could keep the pocket”. Bowie claimed in 1983: “I took the instruments away. They don’t weave quite such a magic spell over the construction of the lyrics…they get the chords right and that’s about all I wanted to do”. // The re-recording is described by Pegg and O’Leary as more “aggressive”. The synthesisers of the original are replaced by keyboards, the verses are “halved” and the backing vocals are run through an Eventide Harmonizer with the pitch raised a minor third. Like the rest of the album, then-unknown blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan plays lead guitar on the song. // The remake of “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” was released on 14 April 1983 as the seventh and penultimate track on Bowie’s 15th studio album Let’s Dance, sequenced between the cover of “Criminal World” and “Shake It”. The remake was also released as the B-side to the title track’s single release on 14 March. It was subsequently performed throughout the Serious Moonlight Tour. At the 26th Annual Grammy Awards, “Cat People” was nominated for the Best Rock Vocal Performance, Male, losing the award to Michael Jackson’s “Beat It”. // The remake was remastered, along with the rest of its parent album, in 2018 as part of the box set Loving the Alien (1983–1988) and released separately the following year. A concert performance recorded on 12 September 1983 may be heard on the live album Serious Moonlight (Live ’83), which was included in Loving the Alien (1983–1988) and released separately in 2019. The performance was filmed and appears on the concert video Serious Moonlight and the DVD version of Best of Bowie.]

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

NEXT WEEK, on January 29, 2025, we welcome special guests: veteran musician and drummer Doug Hitchcock and music from his release from Hari Karaoke Trio of Doom. Se also welcome KC based siner songwriter Julie Bennet Hume, and Malek Azreal joins us to share details about ROCK IS BLACK – Friday, February 28 at Zhou B Art Center, 1801 East 18th street, KCMO with Frankie Shorez and Mercy Fire, Jamogi and the Jammers, Stephonne, Malek Azrael and the Vibez. Plus we’ll play new music from The MGDs, Ivory Blue, Heath Church, Benjamin Booker and more

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

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

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

Show #1079

WMM Playlist from January 8, 2025 – Bowie’s Birthday!

Posted on January 8, 2025 by Mark Manning

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

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

WMM Celebrates Iris DeMent and David Bowie

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

Greg Brown – “Let The Mystery Be”
from: Freak Flag / Yep Roc / May 10, 2011
[Iris DeMent’s song “Let The Mystery Be” from her debut album, Infamous Angel, from 1992. This song was covered by David Bryne, 10,000 Maniacs, Bun E. Carlos, and many others, it also became the theme song for the 2nd season of The Leftovers.While Greg Brown was recording this album, lighting hit the studio where he was recording songs for his 24th album: Freak Flag, the title track was all that remained of the lost original album. Greg wrote ten new songs, recording them at Memphis, Tennessee’s legendary Ardent Studios. Produced by Bo Ramsey, the album also includes a cover of Pieta Brown’s song, ”Remember the Sun.”]

Thanks for tuning into WMM, here on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio,  I’m Mark Manning. Today on WMM we give you a double header. In our 2nd hour, in honor of what would have been his 78h birthday – TODAY – January 8, we celebrate David Bowie, with a sonic tribute to the musical chameleon who was such an important influence on so many of us especially us queer kids, trapped in small towns.

But first…In our 1st hour, we celebrate the birthday of Iris DeMent, born on, January 5, 1961, in rural Paragould, Arkansas. She was the youngest of 14 children. At the age of 3, her devoutly religious family moved to California, where she grew up singing gospel music. Within her own family there were many incredible vocalists, including her mother During her teenage years, Iris was exposed to country, folk, & R&B.

In the mid 1980s Iris moved to the Midwest, and after a series of jobs as a waitress and typist, she wrote her first song at the age of 25. She moved to Kansas City and played Harling’s Upstairs and open-mic nights along side Scott Hrabko and Howard Iceberg. Iris met producer Jim Rooney from Nashville, in 1988, who helped her land a record contract. Iris Dement made her national recording debut in 1992, with her independently produced album, “Infamous Angel.” The record won critical acclaim and John Prine mentioned Iris in his list of favorite recordings of the year, published in Rolling Stone. Despite a complete lack of support from country radio, the word of mouth praise for Iris DeMent’s INFAMOUS ANGEL earned her a deal with Warner Bros Records, which reissued INFAMOUS ANGEL in 1993. The album also included the song, “Let The Mystery Be” a composition also covered by David Bryne, 10,000 Maniacs, Bun E. Carlos of Cheap Trick, Greg Brown, and it was the theme song for the second season of HBO’s The Leftovers.

Today we feature music from some of Iris DeMent’s 7 full length albums, her collaborative work with Greg Brown, John Prine, and classic songs from her inspirations: Loretta Lynn, Johnny Cash, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and Merle Haggard. Please stay with us.

10:08 – The Influences of Iris DeMent

Iris DeMent represents that place in the road, where Country and Folk music merge, with honest stories of working class people, not afraid to tell the truth about the times they are living through. Iris DeMent grew up singing gospel music, but in her teenage years, she discovered other music through the radio: country, folk, and R&B, and the music of Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell.

Loretta Lynn – “You Ain’t Woman Enough To Take My Man”
rom: Legends of Country Music / Columbia – Legacy / 1997
[Live performance for Austin City Limits taped in 1983. Loretta Webb was the second of 8 children; grew up in Butcher Holler, a section of Van Lear, a mining community in Kentucky. Growing up with such humble roots had a huge effect on Lynn’s life and heavily influenced her music as an adult. Her autobiography describes how, during her childhood, the community had no motor vehicles, paved roads, or flush toilets. She married Oliver Vanetta Lynn, known as “Doo,” on Jan. 10, 1948, at age 13. In an effort to break free of the coal mining industry, at 14, Lynn moved to the logging community Custer, Washington, with her husband. The Lynns had 4 children – Betty Sue, Jack Benny, Cissy and Ernest Ray – by the time Loretta was 18, and in her early 20s she then had twin girls, Peggy & Patsy. Loretta Lynn possibly had more banned songs than any other country music artist, prior to The Dixie Chicks, including “Rated X,” about the double standards divorced women face, “Wings Upon Your Horns,” about the loss of teenage virginity, and “The Pill,” lyrics by T. D. Bayless, about a wife and mother becoming liberated via the birth control pill. Her song “Dear Uncle Sam,” released in 1966 during the Vietnam War, describes a wife’s anguish at the loss of a husband to war.]

Merle Haggard – “Workin’ Man Blues”
from: Oh Boy Classic Presents Merle Haggard / Oh Boy Records / 2000
[Originally released in 1969, a tribute to a core group of his fans: The American blue-collared working man. Backed by an electric guitar that typified Haggard’s signature Bakersfield Sound, he fills the role of one of those workers expressing pride in values of hard work & sacrifice, despite the resulting fatigue & the stress of raising a large family. On Haggard’s 1969 “A Portrait of Merle Haggard,” and John Prine’s Oh Boy Records.]

Johnny Cash – “Ring of Fire”
from: 16 Biggest Hits / Columbia Legacy / 2007
[Co-written by June Carter (wife of Johnny Cash) and Merle Kilgore. The song was recorded on March 25, 1963 and became the biggest hit of his career, staying at #1 on the charts for 7 weeks. “Ring of Fire” refers to falling in love – which is what June Carter was experiencing with Johnny Cash at the time. Some sources claim that June had seen the phrase, “Love is like a burning ring of fire,” underlined in one of her uncle A. P. Carter’s Elizabethan books of poetry. She worked with Kilgore on writing a song inspired by this phrase as she had seen her uncle do in the past. In the 2005 film, Walk the Line June is depicted as writing the song while agonizing over her feelings for Cash despite his drug addiction and alcoholism as she was driving home one evening. She had written: “There is no way to be in that kind of hell, no way to extinguish a flame that burns, burns, burns”. Cash claims he had a dream where he heard the song accompanied by “Mexican horns”. Four years after the song was released, Carter and Cash were married which Cash states helped to stop his alcohol and drug addictions. Cash’s daughter, Rosanne has stated, “The song is about the transformative power of love and that’s what it has always meant to me and that’s what it will always mean to the Cash children.]

Bob Dylan – “I Shall Be Released”
rom: The Essential Bob Dylan / Columbia – Sony / 2000
[Originally recorded October, 1971 for Greatest Hits Vol. 2. Originally written for The Basement Tapes. Originally recorded by The Band. Later recorded by Nina Simone in 1973.]

Joni Mitchell – “For The Roses”
from: For The Roses / Asylum / 1972
[Released between her 2 biggest commercial and critical successes, “Blue” and “Court & Spark.” In 2007 it was one of 50 recordings chosen that year by the Library of Congress to be added to the National Recording Registry. “For the Roses” was Mitchell’s farewell to the business; she took an extended break for a year after. The album was critically acclaimed with The New York Times saying, “Each of Mitchell’s songs on For the Roses is a gem glistening with her elegant way with language, her pointed splashes of irony & her perfect shaping of images. Never does Mitchell voice a thought or feeling commonly. She’s a songwriter and singer of genius who can’t help but make us feel we are not alone.” A nude photograph of Joni Mitchell was included on the inside cover of the original LP and is included in the CD booklet. The photograph shows the singer from the rear & was taken from a considerable distance; she is shown standing on a rock and staring out at the ocean. This created some controversy at the time.]

10:22

Iris DeMent‘s first three releases, all on Warner Brothers records, were critically acclaimed. She received two Grammy nominations during this time, in the “Folk Music” category. Meanwhile country radio completely overlooked her original songs, and her amazing voice, that has been compared to Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette. For Iris’ 1992 debut album, Infamous Angel, John Prine wrote the liner notes:

“One night after receiving a copy of “Let the Mystery Be,” I was listening to the tape while frying a dozen or so pork chops in a skillet. Well Iris DeMent starts singing about “Mama’s Opry,” and being the sentimental fellow I am, I got a lump in my throat and a tear fell from my eyes into the hot oil. Well the oil popped out and burnt my arm as if the pork chops were trying to say, “Shut up, or I’ll really give you something to cry about.” Of course, pork chops can’t talk. But Iris DeMent’s songs can. They talk about isolated memories of life, love and living. And Iris has a voice I like a whole lot, like one you’ve heard before— but not really. So listen to this music, this Iris DeMent. It’s good for you. And if pork chops could talk, they’d probably learn how to sing one of her songs. Then we’d all have something to cry about.”

John Prine, Songwriter, musician & president Oh Boy! Records

11:24

Iris DeMent – “Infamous Angel”
from: Infamous Angel / Warner Brothers / 1992 / 1993
[Debut studio album of singer-songwriter Iris DeMent. It was released by Warner Bros. Records in 1992. In 1995, her song “Our Town” was played in the closing moments of the last episode for the CBS TV series Northern Exposure.. “Let the Mystery Be” became the theme song for the 2nd season of The Leftovers.]

John Prine w/ Iris Dement – “We’re Not The Jet Set”
from: In Spite Of Ourselves / Oh Boy / 1999
[In 1968 country superstar George Jones witnessed a fight between Tammy Wynette and her husband Don Chapel. At Jones’s urging, Wynette and her daughters drove away with him. Wynette and Jones married Feb. 16, 1969, and Wynette’s 4th daughter, Georgette, was born in 1970. Jones and Wynette, were nicknamed the “President and First Lady” of country music, and they recorded a string of hit duets that seemed drawn directly from their volatile relationship, which resulted in their divorcing in 1975. Their classic recordings included “Two Story House,” “Golden Ring,” and the humorous “(We’re Not) The Jet Set.” ]

10:30 – Underwriting

10:32 – Greg Brown

Welcome back to WMM, and our Annual Birthday Celebration of Iris DeMent. Iris followed up her debut album INFAMOUS ANGEL with the autobiographical, MY LIFE, released in 1994. Iris followed with her third Warner Brother’s release, THE WAY I SHOULD, released in 1996, which contains some of Iris DeMent’s most political songs.

In the 2002 Iris DeMent did a benefit concert for The Friends of Community Radio at Unity Temple on The Plaza. I remember when Iris asked us if it was okay that she have a musician friend open the concert for her, we agreed because Iris was donating her talent to the cause of community radio. And then she told us that this musician friend was Greg Brown, who is known all over the country, but had never before played KC.

Later that year, on November 21, 2002 Greg married Iris DeMent in a private ceremony in the office of Rev. Sam Mann of St. Mark Church in East KC. Iris had originally learned about Rev. Sam Mann from listening to his radio show “East of Troost” on 90.1 FM KKFI. Iris started attending his church, and eventually Rev. Mann realized he had a Grammy nominated musical artist in his parish.

Grammy Nominated Greg Brown is one of the most respected singer songwriters working in music. He started singing professionally at the age of 18 organizing early folk concerts in New York City, Portland, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. In the 1980s, he worked and toured extensively as musical director for Garrison Keillor’s A Prairie Home Companion radio program. He also founded his own record label, named Red House Records after a home in which he lived in Iowa.

Greg Brown has released over 30 recordings and has allowed much of his music to be used to raise funds and awareness for environmental and social causes. His songs have been performed by Willie Nelson, Jack Johnson, Carlos Santana, Michael Johnson, Ani DiFranco, Shawn Colvin, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Iris DeMent and Joan Baez.

10:35

Greg Brown – “Bucket”
from: Evening Call / Red House / 2006
[The Washington Post writes, “The singer-songwriter from Iowa has a baritone as rough and chunky as Thanksgiving gravy with the turkey bits still in, and that’s just how his words drip out on his album, “The Evening Call.” on “Whippoorwill” he sing as sweetly as his lover down in KC. That’s his wife, Iris DeMent, and on “Joy Tears,” he tells her, “When you start your singing, honey, the heavens open up with grace.”]

Iris released her 5th album, SING THE DELTA in 2012, to glowing reviews from, The New Yorker, The Boston Globe, The Chicago Tribune, and was #1 on WMM’s 112 Best Recordings of 2012. Iris DeMent released her 6th album, THE TRACKLESS WOODS in 2015 with even more national acclaim, and a #5 spot on WMM’s 115 Best Recordings of 2015. THE TRACKLESS WOODS sets 18 poems by acclaimed 20th century Russian poet Anna Akhmatova to life. Hailed as one of Russia’s finest poets, Akhmatova survived the Bolshevik Revolution, both World Wars and Stalin. When Iris randomly stumbled upon Akhmatova’s work in a book of poetry a friend sent as a gift, she was immediately taken by the sorrow and burden of the poems. Iris recorded the album with co-producer Richard Bennett in her living room over a five-day period. The project also fulfilled a long yearned for desire to connect with her adopted daughter’s culture and history. Iris and her husband Greg Brown has adopted their daughter from Siberia in 2005, when she was 6, and Iris says ”I’d never have made this record were it not for her.”

10:41

Iris DeMent – “Listening to Singing”
from: The Trackless Woods / FlariElla / August 7, 2015 [6th album from Grammy nominated Iris DeMent who NPR said was ”one of the great voices in contemporary popular music.” The Trackless Woods sets 18 poems by acclaimed 20th century Russian poet Anna Akhmatova to life. Hailed as one of Russia’s finest poets, Akhmatova survived the Bolshevik Revolution, both World Wars and Stalin. She lost family, friends & fellow writers to political killings and labor in the gulags. When Iris randomly stumbled upon Akhmatova’s work in a book of poetry a friend sent as a gift, she was immediately taken by the sorrow and burden of the poems, juxtaposed with Akhmatova’s lightness and transcendence in the face of inhumanity. ”Anna’s gift of song is so strong, about alI I had to do was get really quiet and listen,” says Iris. After reading that first poem the melodies began pouring out of her, and before she even fully understood what was driving her, Iris was gathering musicians & friends, including co-producer Richard Bennett (Emmylou Harris, Neil Diamond, Steve Earle), to record ‘The Trackless Woods’ in her living room over a 5-days. The result is a pairing of piano and voice in Iris’ style with timeless melodies that are rooted in the American South.]

On September 3, 2020, Grammy nominated singer songwriter Iris DeMent released the single “How Long.” Then, in October of 2020 Iris DeMent sent me a new song she had just written and created a lyric video. I immediately wrote back to Iris and said, “This song is so beautiful and so needed right now. I cried several times listening to it.” She wrote back, “It’s a cry and dance at the same time song. Can’t say I’ve written one of those before. She ended her message with a smily face and the words, “Much love!”

Just as 90.1 FM KKFI was the first radio station to play Iris Dement’s music, we were also the first radio station to play her song, “Going Down To Texas.”

10:45

Iris DeMent – “Going Down To Sing In Texas”
from: Workin’ On A World / FlariElla / February 24, 2023
[Stereogum on October 13, 2020 wrote: Other than a handful of guest appearances, Americana legend Iris DeMent hasn’t released new music since her 2015 album The Trackless Woods, a collection of Anna Akhmatova poems set to original music. But DeMent is back today in a big way with “Going Down To Sing In Texas,” a lengthy rambler that’s a lot more serious than its casual, jazzy piano groove lets on. Over the course of nine minutes, DeMent addresses police brutality, George W. Bush (“What’s the deal with all these war criminals who get to walk around free?”), Islamophobia, progressive protesters (“I’m so proud of all of these young people for taking it to the streets”), gun control, Jeff Bezos (“Ain’t we all just a little bit tired of greedy people getting a free pass?”), the Chicks, the Squad, and Jesus Christ (“He spoke truth to power, he stood up for the poor/ The church today wouldn’t even let him through the door”) among other things.It’s a hell of a song, clear and direct yet artful in its conversational ease. Never forget that DeMent can go toe to toe with songwriting legends like her old duet partner John Prine.]

Iris DeMent’s 7th full length album, WORKIN’ ON A WORLD was stalled partway through by the pandemic, the record took six years to make with the help of three friends and co-producers: Richard Bennett, Pieta Brown, and Jim Rooney. It was Pieta Brown, (Greg Brown’s daughter,) who gave the record its final push. Iris write, “Pieta asked me what had come of the recordings I’d done with Jim and Richard in 2019 and 2020. I told her I’d pretty much given up on trying to make a record. She asked would I mind if she had a listen. So, I had everything we’d done sent over to her, and not long after that I got a text, bouncing with exclamation marks: ‘You have a record and it’s called Workin’ On A World!’” With Bennett back in the studio with them, Brown and DeMent recorded several more songs and put the final touches on the record in Nashville in April of 2022. // DeMent sets the stage for the album with the title track in which she moves from a sense of despair towards a place of promise. “Now I’m workin’ on a world I may never see ‘ Joinin’ forces with the warriors of love / Who came before and will follow you and me.”

In his review for WHYY’s Fresh Air, Entertainment Weekly Music Editor – Ken Tucker wrote: “Iris DeMent possesses one of the great voices in contemporary popular music: powerfully, ringingly clear, capable of both heartbreaking fragility and blow-your-ears-back power. Had she been making country albums in the ’70s and ’80s and had more commercial ambition, she’d probably now be considered right up there with Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette. Instead, she’s lived a contemporary life, a somewhat private life. As she recently told an interviewer, “There’s a lot that goes into life besides songwriting.” And she’s taken her time in composing songs that fit into no genre easily.”

I communicate with Iris every year, checking in with her, giving her news from Kansas City a place where she loved living, where she found herself as a singer-songwriter, and where she doesn’t mind if we say it’s her “chosen” hometown. Iris joined us live on the show on March 22, 2023 just before her SOLD OUT show at Knuckleheads on Thursday, March 23, 2023 with guest Ana Egge ” Happy Birthday Iris DeMent. We love you!

Iris DeMent – “Say A Good Word”
from: Workin’ On A World / FlariElla / February 24, 2023
[Iris DeMent’s 7th full length album, WORKING ON A WORLD was stalled partway through by the pandemic, the record took six years to make with the help of three friends and co-producers: Richard Bennett, Pieta Brown, and Jim Rooney. It was Pieta Brown who gave the record its final push. “Pieta asked me what had come of the recordings I’d done with Jim and Richard in 2019 and 2020. I told her I’d pretty much given up on trying to make a record. She asked would I mind if she had a listen. So, I had everything we’d done sent over to her, and not long after that I got a text, bouncing with exclamation marks: ‘You have a record and it’s called Workin’ On A World!’” With Bennett back in the studio with them, Brown and DeMent recorded several more songs and put the final touches on the record in Nashville in April of 2022. // DeMent sets the stage for the album with the title track in which she moves from a sense of despair towards a place of promise. “Now I’m workin’ on a world I may never see ‘ Joinin’ forces with the warriors of love / Who came before and will follow you and me.” “Goin’ Down To Sing in Texas” is an ode not only to gun control, but also to the brave folks who speak out against tyranny and endure the consequences in an unjust world. // On October 6, 2020 iris DeMent released her single “Going Down To Sing In Texas.” Stereogum on October 13, 2020 wrote: Other than a handful of guest appearances, Americana legend Iris DeMent hasn’t released new music since her 2015 album The Trackless Woods, a collection of Anna Akhmatova poems set to original music. But DeMent is back today in a big way with “Going Down To Sing In Texas,” a lengthy rambler that’s a lot more serious than its casual, jazzy piano groove lets on. Over the course of nine minutes, DeMent addresses police brutality, George W. Bush (“What’s the deal with all these war criminals who get to walk around free?”), Islamophobia, progressive protesters (“I’m so proud of all of these young people for taking it to the streets”), gun control, Jeff Bezos (“Ain’t we all just a little bit tired of greedy people getting a free pass?”), the Chicks, the Squad, and Jesus Christ (“He spoke truth to power, he stood up for the poor/ The church today wouldn’t even let him through the door”) among other things.It’s a hell of a song, clear and direct yet artful in its conversational ease. Never forget that DeMent can go toe to toe with songwriting legends like her old duet partner John Prine. In his review for WHYY’s Fresh Air, Entertainment Weekly Music Editor – Ken Tucker wrote: “Iris DeMent possesses one of the great voices in contemporary popular music: powerfully, ringingly clear, capable of both heartbreaking fragility and blow-your-ears-back power. Had she been making country albums in the ’70s and ’80s and had more commercial ambition, she’d probably now be considered right up there with Loretta Lynn and Tammy Wynette. Instead, she’s lived a contemporary life, a somewhat private life. As she recently told an interviewer, “There’s a lot that goes into life besides songwriting.” And she’s taken her time in composing songs that fit into no genre easily.”] [Iris DeMent played Knuckleheads 2715 Rochester Street, KCMO on Thursday, March 23, 2023 in a SOLD OUT SHOW with guest Ana Egge opening the show.] [Iris Dement was our guest LIVE on WMM on March 22, 2023]

11:00 – Station ID – Celebrating David Bowie

You are listening to 90.1 FM KKFI Kansas City Community Radio. Please stayed tuned to the 2nd hour of WMM as we celebrate David Bowie born on this day January 8, 1947.

In school he studied art, music, and design before embarking on a music career in 1963. Over a span of 5 decades, he sold over 140 million records and released 27 studio albums, if you count Tin Machine, which you should. His career is notable for his reinvention, his pushing of the boundaries of gender, art and music. He was the first to create a concert tour that was a big as a broadway touring show. He help invent Glam Rock, New Wave, and electronica. He created stage personas to carry thematic concepts with costumes and lights and the very best guitarists and musicians of his time. David Bowie was an actor on stage and in many great independent films including: The Man Who Fell to Earth, The Hunger, Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence, Basquiat, The Last Temptation of Christ, The Labyrinth, and 15 others. He played John Merrick in The Elephant Man on Broadway. He influenced multiple generations with his music, recordings, live concerts, films, music videos, and his ever changing, image.

Bowie was a gateway to other discoveries: The Velvet Underground, Lou Reed, T-Rex, Iggy Pop, Andy Warhol, Glam Rock, Electronica, Brian Eno, William S. Burroughs, Kraftwerk, Mick Ronson, Tony Visconti, Klaus Nomi, Bauhaus, Gender Expression, and much more.

Nine years ago on January 10, 2016, and two days after he released his 25th solo album, Blackstar, on his 69th birthday, David Robert Jones passed away at home surrounded by his wife Iman, son Duncan Jones from his marriage to Angela Bowie, and daughter Alexandria from his marriage to Iman. David Bowie’s death sent shock waves of grief across the world, touching every one of us, that he made feel, less alone. He was a light, a shining star, that guided so many of us through the darkness.

We celebrate David Bowie with musical tracks from deeper inside Bowie’s studio albums, “Blackstar” performed by Chase Horseman, Calvin Arsenia with an original unreleased track called “Ashes”, the Steve Reich remix of “Love is Lost” from THE NEXT DAY (Extra), The Sea and Cake with “Sound and Vision” from LOW, electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk who name check Bowie and Iggy Pop in lyrics to their “Trans-Europe Express” from 1977; Bowie responding with “V-2 Schneider” from HEROES of the same year; Julia Othmer’s beautiful cover of “Heroes” followed by Ondara, with “I’m Afraid of Americans” from Bowie’s EARTHLING from 1997; “Under Pressure” from from Bowie’s Reality Tour Live with bandmate Gail Ann Dorsey, and ending with Oscar winning film composer Ryuichi Sakamoto who in his very first film acting role and first job as a composer of a film’s soundtrack, played opposite of David Bowie in the film “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” from 1983. WMM celebrates the life of David Bowie in music.

David Bowie – “Ian Fish U.K. Heir (Moonage Daydream Mix 1)”
from: Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film / Parlophone / September 16, 2022
[Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film is the soundtrack to the 2022 documentary film Moonage Daydream based on the life of English singer-songwriter David Bowie. It was released digitally on September 16, 2022 by Rhino Entertainment and Parlophone Records, preceded by a two-disc CD release on November 18, 2022 and a three-disc vinyl edition, set for later release in 2023. // The album was announced on August 25 2022, to accompany the film, that contained previously unreleased live singles, tracks cut from the album, film-specific remixes of Bowie’s tracks, orchestral performances and interview excerpts and monologues from Bowie himself. A single from the album – the remixed version of the song “Modern Love” – released on the same date. Bowie’s official website, stated it as “This version is a unique mix starting with the isolated piano motif from the track, building up into the chorus before ending on the a cappella backing vocals offering an insight into the individual elements that create the classic we all know and love”. The film-specific remix of the song “D.J.” was released as the second single on September 9, 2022 // Brett Morgan worked for nearly 18 months to design the accompanying soundtrack, with the sound design team — re-recording mixers Paul Massey and David Giammarco, sound and music editor John Warhurst, supervising sound editor Nina Hartstone — working with him. On designing the film’s music, Massey mashed up “a lot of music that wasn’t designed to go together into some amazing pieces of work. And the sound design is fully integrated into that. The soundtrack is like a huge dissolve, from the very beginning of the film until the end.” // At the Cannes Film Festival premiere on May 2022, Carey Matthew of Deadline Hollywood called it as “thundering soundtrack that literally shakes the seats”. Kenji Fujishima of Slant Magazine wrote “Though Bowie’s music dominates the soundtrack (with his songs remixed for maximum heart-thumping arena-rock impact), the documentary also includes music inspired by the man’s art, including snippets from the Philip Glass symphonies based on Bowie’s Low and Heroes albums.” Max Bell of Classic Rock wrote “If it’s axiomatic that great artistic careers build to a form of crescendo then this double CD, the official soundtrack to Brett Morgen’s anticipated documentary on the musical odyssey of David Bowie, meets that criterion. Morgen’s work on Crossfire Hurricane, for the Rolling Stones, and Kurt Cobain: Montage Of Heck, persuaded Bowie’s estate to give him carte blanche on over fifty years of material, utilising sonic enhancement, mixes that veer from the sublime to the ridiculously sublime, and a spoken word narrative of sorts that threads the meaning of time, death and faith.”]

David Bowie – ““You’re aware of a deeper existence…”
from: Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film / Parlophone / September 16, 2022
[Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film is the soundtrack to the 2022 documentary film Moonage Daydream based on the life of English singer-songwriter David Bowie. It was released digitally on September 16, 2022 by Rhino Entertainment and Parlophone Records, preceded by a two-disc CD release on November 18, 2022 and a three-disc vinyl edition, set for later release in 2023.]

Chase Horseman – “Blackstar”
from: “Blackstar” – Single / Chase Horseman / To be released January 31, 2024
[Produced, engineered, & mixed by Chase Horseman who also played everything, except for Ian Dobyns who played drums, and also mastered the track. // David Bowie’s 25th solo studio album BLACKSTAR was released eight years ago on his 69th birthday on January 8, 2016. Two days later David Robert Jones passed away at home surrounded by his wife Iman, son Duncan Jones from his marriage to Angela Bowie, and daughter Alexandria from his marriage to Iman. BLACKSTAR has received universal critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching the number one spot in a number of countries in the wake of Bowie’s death and becoming his first album to reach number one on the Billboard 200 album chart in the U.S.]

David Bowie – “Let me tell you one thing…” (CD #17) ( :18)
from: Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film / Parlophone / September 16, 2022
[Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film is the soundtrack to the 2022 documentary film Moonage Daydream based on the life of English singer-songwriter David Bowie. It was released digitally on September 16, 2022 by Rhino Entertainment and Parlophone Records, preceded by a two-disc CD release on November 18, 2022 and a three-disc vinyl edition, set for later release in 2023.

Calvin Arsenia – “Ashes” (CD #18) (1:59)
from: Live at Greenwood Social Hall / Calvin Arsenia / Unreleased, 2017
[from Calvin’s June 11, 2017 live performance at Greenwood Social Hall, 1760 Bellevue. Born in Orlando, Florida, Calvin’s creative journey really began when he moved to the KC suburb of Olathe, teaching himself the guitar, and eventually the harp. He learned his signature instrument at the age of 20 after he couldn’t find a harpist as determined as him to meld folk, rock, classical, rap and R&B into the irresistible fusion which has become his calling card in KC and beyond. 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 whose impassioned and conceptual stage shows (regularly sold-out in Kansas City, currently catching fire on the West Coast with a diverse following across Europe), are collaborative, costumed-culture-bridging spectacles which In KC Magazine has hailed as ‘equal parts opera, symphony, musical theatre, rock show, all built around its creator: a charismatic 6-foot-7-inch harpist with a natural stage command and knack for gilding gold and painting lilies.’]

David Bowie–”Love Is Lost (Hello Steve Reich Mix by James Murphy for the DFA)”
rom: The Next Day Extra EP / ISO Columbia / November 4, 2013
[The Next Day Extra was released Nov. 4, 2013. This 3-disc collector’s edition includes two CDs and a DVD. The first CD is the original 14-track album. The second is a 10-track CD comprising the deluxe edition bonus tracks “Plan”, “I’ll Take You There”, and “So She”, the Japanese exclusive track “God Bless the Girl”, two remixes, and four new songs (“Atomica”, “The Informer”, “Like a Rocket Man”, and “Born in a UFO”). The DVD includes the four promotional music videos (“Where Are We Now?”, “The Stars (Are Out Tonight)”, “The Next Day”, and “Valentine’s Day”). // The Next Day is the 24th studio album by English musician David Bowie, released on March 8, 2013 on his ISO Records label, under exclusive licence to Columbia Records. Co-produced by Bowie and longtime collaborator Tony Visconti, the album was recorded in secret at The Magic Shop and Human Worldwide Studios in New York City between 2011 and 2013. It is primarily a rock album, featuring elements of art rock. The cover art is an adapted version of his 1977 album “Heroes”, featuring a white square with the album’s title obscuring his face. It was announced on Bowie’s 66th birthday, 8 January 2013. Bowie’s website was updated with the video for the lead single, “Where Are We Now?”, and the single was immediately made available for purchase on the iTunes Store. // It was Bowie’s first album of new material in ten years, since 2003’s Reality, and surprised fans and media who had presumed that he had retired from the music business. The album was streamed in its entirety on iTunes days before its official release. The Next Day Extra, an additional disc featuring four more tracks, and remixes of songs from the original album, was released in November. The Next Day was met with critical acclaim, and earned Bowie his first number-one album in the United Kingdom since 1993’s Black Tie White Noise. It was ranked as the second best album of 2013 (in a tie with Blue October’s Sway) by German music magazine Kulturnews and was also nominated for the 2013 Mercury Prize. The album was nominated for Best Rock Album at the 2014 Grammy Awards and for MasterCard British Album of the Year at the 2014 Brit Awards. // Recording of the album took place at The Magic Shop and Human Worldwide Studios in New York City. Bowie and producer Tony Visconti worked in secret alongside long-term engineer Mario J. McNulty, recording the album over a two-year period. The recording sessions were sporadic, and Visconti estimated that only three full months were spent demoing and recording material. Visconti recalled that the album began with a one-week recording session: Sterling Campbell was on drums, I was on bass, David was on keyboards, Gerry Leonard was on guitar. By the end of five days we had demoed up a dozen songs. Just structures. No lyrics, no melodies and all working titles. This is how everything begins with him. Then he took them home and we didn’t hear another thing from him for four months. // Bowie would disappear with the music “to make sure he was on the right track”, then bring the band back together to take the next step in recording when he was ready. Visconti described the recording sessions as “intense”, but they stuck to regular hours. “The last time we did all-nighters was Young Americans”. // During breaks from the studio, Visconti would walk the streets of New York listening to music from The Next Day on his earphones: “I was walking around New York with my headphones on, looking at all the people with Bowie T-shirts on—they are ubiquitous here—thinking, ‘Boy, if you only knew what I’m listening to at the moment.'”// Despite the statement that no guest artists were used to record the album, Bowie did use some of the musicians he’s worked with in the past, including Earl Slick, who recorded his parts for the album in July 2012. Gail Ann Dorsey (bass guitar) and Sterling Campbell (drums), who had both worked with Bowie since the 1990s, also contributed to the album. Dorsey also recorded vocals for the song “If You Can See Me”. Drummer Zachary Alford and guitarists Gerry Leonard and David Torn were hired for the sessions and Slick revealed that Visconti also contributed bass. Saxophonist Steve Elson, who had worked with Bowie since the 1980s, also plays on the album. A story that Robert Fripp, who previously has worked with Bowie in the studio, was invited to play on the album but could not due to other commitments was denied by Fripp, who said, “I haven’t spoken to David for a while and I wasn’t approached [to take part in the album]”, adding “I’m not angry at all. No one is hurt, I’m not upset, just keen for clarity.” // Bowie took great pains to keep the recording of the album secret, requiring people involved in the recording to sign NDAs. Bowie had to change recording studios after one day when someone at the studio disclosed that Bowie was recording there. He moved to the studio The Magic Shop, which ran the studio with a skeleton crew of only one or two employees on days when Bowie was there. Columbia Records’s UK PR firm learned of the project only a few days before the album was released. // Canadian band Metric almost uncovered the secret recording sessions when they arrived at Magic Shop recording studios unannounced in 2011, and Bowie saxophonist Steve Elson said he was tempted to reveal all. // The Next Day is a rock album, mainly featuring art rock. Tony Visconti told the NME that The Next Day “is quite a rock album” and Alexis Petridis of The Guardian considered the record “a straightforward rock album.” // The first single was the ballad “Where Are We Now?”, a track which Visconti described as “the only track on the album that goes this much inward for him”. Visconti suggested that Bowie chose “Where Are We Now?” as the opening single because “people had to deal with the shock that he was back [after a 10-year absence]” and that the introspective nature of the song made it an appropriate choice. The song reached No.6 in the UK charts. Opening lyrics for “Where Are We Now” reflectively recall the name of a train station (plaza) and a street in west Berlin, where Bowie once lived. A video accompanying the single includes props such as a dismantled photo frame lying discarded on the floor in the opening shot, a large ear in the background, and a two-headed soft doll with the torn faces of Bowie and a voiceless counterpart “pasted” onto it in. Lyrics also include the phrase “the moment you know you know, you know”. // “The Stars (Are Out Tonight)” was released as the second single from the album on 26 February 2013. A music video in the form of a short film was premiered the previous day. The song received moderate airplay on BBC Radio 2 and 106.9FM WHCR, peaking at number 102 on the UK Singles Chart. // Visconti, who accepted an interviewer’s suggestion that he was Bowie’s “voice on earth”, commented on the album to the international press and provided insights into the individual tracks. The songs cover a wide spread of subjects and are largely observational: most probe the mind-sets of different individuals. “Valentine’s Day” is about a high school shooter. “I’d Rather Be High” related the story of a Second World War soldier. Visconti described the material as “extremely strong and beautiful”. He added “if people are looking for classic Bowie they’ll find it on this album, if they’re looking for innovative Bowie, new directions, they’re going to find that on this album too.” Visconti commented that 29 tracks were recorded for the album and suggested that some of the material left out of The Next Day could appear on a subsequent record. Visconti speculated that Bowie could return to the studio to produce a new album later in 2013, but this did not happen. // The cover art for the album is an adapted version of Bowie’s 1977 album, “Heroes”, with a white square with the album’s title obscuring Bowie’s face. Designed by Jonathan Barnbrook, who also designed packaging for Heathen and Reality and follow-up Blackstar, the obscuring of the photograph connotes “forgetting or obliterating the past”. The original cover image was shot by Masayoshi Sukita. Barnbrook explained the cover, saying: “If you are going to subvert an album by David Bowie there are many to choose from but this is one of his most revered, it had to be an image that would really jar if it were subverted in some way and we thought “Heroes” worked best on all counts.” A viral marketing campaign was launched to promote the album on 15 February 2013. The campaign grew out of the concept behind the album cover, taking seemingly ordinary images and subverting them through the addition of a white square. // The Next Day debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart, selling 94,048 copies in its first week. It was Bowie’s ninth number-one album in the United Kingdom, and his first in twenty years since Black Tie White Noise (1993). The album fell to number two the following week, selling 35,671 copies. In its third week, it slipped to number three on sales of 23,157 units. // In the United States, the album entered the Billboard 200 at number two with first-week sales of 85,000 copies, earning Bowie his largest sales week for an album in the Nielsen SoundScan era, and also his highest charting album on the Billboard 200. The album has sold 208,000 copies in the US as of December 2015. Elsewhere, The Next Day topped the charts in several countries, including Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Sweden and Switzerland, while reaching number two in Australia, Austria, Canada, France, Italy, and Spain.] [Born February 4, 1970. James Murphy is a musician, producer, DJ, and co-founder of record label DFA Records. His most well-known musical project is LCD Soundsystem. James Murphy was influenced by Bowie and remixed songs for Bowie’s The Next Day Extras, and is credited as a percussionist on Bowie’s Backstar.]

The Sea and Cake – “Sound & Vision”
from: One Bedroom / Thrill Jockey Records / January 21, 2003
[6th album from American indie rock band with a jazz influence, based in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The group has released 11 albums. The group formed in the mid-1990s from members of The Coctails (Archer Prewitt), Shrimp Boat (Sam Prekop and Eric Claridge), and Tortoise (John McEntire). The group’s name came from a willful reinterpretation (as the result of an accidental miscomprehension) of “The C in Cake”, a song by Gastr del Sol. Starting with 1997’s The Fawn, the group has relied on electronic sound sources, such as drum machines and synthesizers, to color its music, but has retained its distinctive post-jazz combo style. The band has shied away from releasing singles, preferring the album format. Contrary to his multi-instrumentalist role in Tortoise, John McEntire almost exclusively plays drums in The Sea and Cake. Members Sam Prekop, Archer Prewitt, and John McEntire each have released solo albums. The cover art of The Sea And Cake’s releases are largely paintings by member Eric Claridge and photographs by Prekop. Prewitt has been involved in publishing his own comic books and doing graphic design. In 1995, the band contributed the song “The Fontana” to the AIDS benefit album Red Hot + Bothered produced by the Red Hot Organization. The band was on hiatus from 2004 to 2007. Their most recent album Any Day was released in May 2018.] [“Sound and Vision” is a song by English singer-songwriter David Bowie which appeared on his 1977 album Low. The song is notable for juxtaposing an uplifting guitar and synthesizer-led instrumental track with Bowie’s withdrawn lyrics. In keeping with the minimalist approach of Low, Bowie and co-producer Tony Visconti originally recorded the track as an instrumental, bar the backing vocal (performed by Visconti’s wife, Mary Hopkin). Bowie then recorded his vocal after the rest of the band had left the studio, before trimming verses off the lyrics and leaving a relatively lengthy instrumental intro on the finished song. Selected as the first single from the album, “Sound and Vision” was used by the BBC on trailers at the time. This provided considerable exposure, much needed as Bowie opted to do nothing to promote the single himself, and helped the song to No. 3. The song was also a top ten hit in Germany, Austria and the Netherlands. However, it stalled at No. 87 in Canada and only managed No. 69 in the United States, where it signaled the end of Bowie’s short commercial honeymoon until “Let’s Dance” in 1983. The first live performance of the song was at Earl’s Court during the Isolar II Tour on 1 July 1978. In 1990, it was a regular number for Bowie’s greatest hits Sound+Vision Tour. The name was also used for a Rykodisc boxed set anthology in 1989.]

11:31 – Underwriting

Kraftwerk – “Trans-Europe Express (Remastered)”
from: Trans Europe Express (Remastered) / Parlophone – Warner Music / March 1, 1977 – 2009
[Kraftwerk translates to: “power station”. They are a German band formed in Düsseldorf in 1970 by Ralf Hütter and Florian Schneider. Widely considered as innovators and pioneers of electronic music, they were among the first successful acts to popularize the genre. The group began as part of West Germany’s experimental Krautrock scene in the early 1970s before fully embracing electronic instrumentation, including synthesizers, drum machines, and vocoders. Trans-Europe Express is the sixth studio album by German electronic music band Kraftwerk. The song’s lyrics reference the album Station to Station and meeting with musicians Iggy Pop and David Bowie. Hütter and Schneider had previously met up with Bowie in Germany and were flattered with the attention they received from him. Ralf Hütter was interested in Bowie’s work as he had been working with Iggy Pop, who was the former lead singer of the Stooges; one of Hütter’s favorite groups. Recorded in mid-1976 in Düsseldorf, Germany, the album was released in March 1977 on Kling Klang Records. It saw the group refine their melodic electronic style, with a focus on sequenced rhythms, minimalism, and occasionally manipulated vocals. The themes include celebrations of the titular European railway service and Europe as a whole, and meditations on the disparities between reality and appearance. // Trans-Europe Express charted at 119 on the American charts and was ranked number 30 in The Village Voice’s 1977 Pazz & Jop critics’ poll. Two singles were released: “Trans-Europe Express” and “Showroom Dummies”. The album has been re-released in several formats and continues to receive acclaim. In 2014, the Los Angeles Times called it “the most important pop album of the last 40 years.” // After the release and tour for the album Radio-Activity, Kraftwerk continued to move further away from their earlier krautrock style of improvised instrumental music, refining their work more into the format of melodic electronic songs. During the tour for Radio-Activity, the band began to make performance rules such as not to be drunk on stage or at parties. Karl Bartos wrote about these rules, stating that “it’s not easy to turn knobs on a synthesizer if you are drunk or full of drugs… We always tried to keep very aware of what we were doing while acting in public.” During this tour, early melodies that would later evolve into the song “Showroom Dummies” were being performed. // In mid-1976, Kraftwerk began to work on the album which was then called Europe Endless. Paul Alessandrini suggested that Kraftwerk write a song about the Trans Europ Express to reflect their electronic music style. Hütter and Schneider met with musicians David Bowie and Iggy Pop prior to the recording, which influenced song lyrics. Maxime Schmitt encouraged the group to record a French language version of the song “Showroom Dummies”, which led the group to later record several songs in French. The album was recorded at Kling Klang Studio in Düsseldorf. Artistic control over the songs was strictly in the hands of members Ralf Hütter and Florian Schneider, with Bartos and Wolfgang Flür contributing sequenced electronic percussion. Kraftwerk went to railway bridges to listen to the sounds the train would actually produce. The group found the sound the train made was not danceable and changed it slightly. // An important piece of new equipment used on the album was the Synthanorma Sequenzer, a customized 32-step 16-channel analog sequencer made for the band by Matten & Wiechers. This allowed the construction of more elaborate sequenced synthesizer lines, which are featured prominently in the tracks “Franz Schubert” and “Endless Endless”, and liberated the player from the chore of playing repetitive keyboard patterns. // Whereas Radio-Activity had featured a mixture of German and English lyrics throughout the album, Trans-Europe Express went further and was mixed as two entirely separate versions, one sung in English, the other in German. At the recommendation of Maxime Schmitt, a French version of the song “Showroom Dummies”, titled “Les Mannequins”, was also recorded. “Les Mannequins” was the group’s first song in French and would influence decisions to record songs in French on later albums. After recording the album in Düsseldorf, Hütter and Schneider visited Los Angeles to mix the tracks at the Record Plant Studio. Elements of the mixing sessions that were done in Los Angeles were dropped from the album, including the use of more upfront vocals in order to do more mixing in Düsseldorf and Hamburg later.// The artwork for the album cover of Trans-Europe Express was originally going to be a monochrome picture of the group reflected in a series of mirrors. This idea was dropped for a photo by New York-based celebrity photographer Maurice Seymour, with the group dressed in suits to resemble mannequins. J. Stara’s image of the group was taken in Paris and is a highly retouched photo-montage of Kraftwerk from their shoulders up again posed as mannequins which are shown on the cover of the English version of the album. On the inside sleeve, a color collage of the group sitting at a small cafe table designed by Emil Schult was used. The photo for this scene was from the session by Maurice Seymour, taken on the group’s American tour. Other photos were taken by Schult that show the group laughing and smiling. These were not used for the album’s release. // Sal Cinquemani of Slant Magazine described the album’s influence as “unprecedented, reaching as wide as rock (Radiohead’s Kid A), hip-hop (Afrika Bambaataa’s classic ‘Planet Rock’, Jay Dee’s recent ‘Big Booty Express’) and pop (Madonna’s Drowned World Tour, which incorporated samples of ‘Metal on Metal’)”. // In the late 1970s, the album influenced post-punk band Joy Division; bassist Peter Hook related: “We were introduced to Kraftwerk by [singer] Ian Curtis, who insisted we play T.E.E. before we went on stage every time. The tape was played at the venue over the PA system, to be heard by everyone. The first time was Pips [a Manchester club well known for its ‘Bowie Room’]. Ian got thrown out for kicking glass around the dance floor in time to the track. It took us ages of pleading to get him back in.” Drummer Stephen Morris also confirmed that Joy Division “used to play Trans-Europe Express before we went on stage, to get us into the zone. It worked because it gets up a lot of momentum. Trans-Europe Express just seemed to express an optimism – even if people see it as machine music”. Morris also said: “It reminds me of Cabaret, the film, with all of the 1920s singing. … When you get that marriage between humans and machines, and you get it right, it’s fantastic. I have to say it’s my favourite Kraftwerk album.” In the mid-1980s, Siouxsie and the Banshees’ rendition of “The Hall of Mirrors”, on their album Through the Looking Glass, was one of the few cover versions that Ralf Hütter hailed in glowing terms as “extraordinary”

David Bowie – “V-2 Schneider”
from: “Heroes” / Parlophone – Warner Music / October 14, 1977 (RCA)
[“V-2 Schneider” is a largely instrumental song written by David Bowie in 1977 for the album “Heroes”. It was a tribute to Florian Schneider, co-founder of the band Kraftwerk, whom Bowie acknowledged as a significant influence at the time. The title also referenced the V-2 rocket, the first ballistic missile, which had been developed for the German Army during World War II, and whose design (and engineers) played a key role in the American space program. The only words sung are those in the title, initially distorted by phasing. Musically, the track is unusual for the off-beat saxophone work by Bowie, who kicked off his part on the wrong note, but continued regardless. “V-2 Schneider” achieved considerable circulation as the B-side of “‘Heroes'”, released prior to the album, but was not played on the subsequent 1978 concert tour, its first live rendition occurring 20 years after it was recorded (see Live versions). A live version recorded at Paradiso, Amsterdam in June 1997, was released as the B-side of the single “Pallas Athena” in August 1997, under the name Tao Jones Index. This version also appeared on the bonus disc for the Digibook Expanded Edition of Earthling. // “Heroes” is the 12th studio album by English musician David Bowie, released on October 14, 1977 by RCA Records. After releasing Low earlier that year, Bowie toured as the keyboardist of his friend and singer Iggy Pop. At the conclusion of the tour, they recorded Pop’s second solo album Lust for Life at Hansa Tonstudio in West Berlin before Bowie regrouped there with collaborator Brian Eno and producer Tony Visconti to record “Heroes”. It was the second installment of his “Berlin Trilogy,” following Low and preceding Lodger (1979). Of the three albums, it was the only one wholly recorded in Berlin. Much of the same personnel from Low returned for the sessions, augmented by King Crimson guitarist Robert Fripp. // The album was recorded sporadically from July to August 1977. The majority of the tracks were composed on the spot in the studio, the lyrics not being written until Bowie stood in front of the microphone. The music itself is based in art rock and experimental rock, and builds upon its predecessor’s electronic and ambient approaches, albeit with more positive tones, atmospheres and passionate performances. The album also follows the same structure as its predecessor, side one featuring more conventional tracks and side two featuring mostly instrumental tracks. // The cover photo, like Iggy Pop’s The Idiot, is a nod to the painting Roquairol by German artist Erich Heckel. Upon release, “Heroes” was a commercial success, peaking at No. 3 on the UK Albums Chart and No. 35 on the US Billboard 200. It was the best-received work of the “Berlin Trilogy” on release, NME and Melody Maker naming it Album of the Year. Bowie promoted the album extensively, appearing on several television programmes and interviews. He supported Low and “Heroes” on the Isolar II world tour throughout 1978, performances of which have appeared on the live albums Stage (1978) and Welcome to the Blackout (2018). // Retrospectively, “Heroes” has continued to receive positive reviews, many reviewers praising Bowie’s growth as an artist and Fripp’s contributions. Although opinion has tended to view Low as the more groundbreaking record, “Heroes” is regarded as one of Bowie’s best and most influential works. The title track, initially unsuccessful as a single, remains one of Bowie’s best-known and acclaimed songs. An altered and obscured version of the cover artwork later appeared as the artwork for Bowie’s 2013 album The Next Day. The album has been reissued several times and was remastered in 2017 as part of the A New Career in a New Town (1977–1982) box set.]

Julia Othmer – “Heroes”
from: Seeds (Volume 1) / Julia Othmer & James Lundie / November 13, 2020
[“Seeds” is Julia Othmer’s 3rd full length album and contains 10 live songs selected from her 30-day Songs of September Project, where Julia performed a different live cover of her favorite songs and broadcast the performance throughout the streaming social media platforms to inspire people to register and vote on November 3. From those songs Julia’s fans democratically selected their favorite tracks to be released together on “Seeds.” Julia Othmer released “Sound,” on April 12, 2019, her second album, that took 3 years to complete, and was produced with James Lundie, who also married Julia in January of 2016, during the completion of the record. Julia Othmer, is a graduate of Park Hill High School. She moved to Los Angeles in 2006 to record her 1st full-length album, “Oasis Motel.” In 2018 to 2019 Julia Othmer toured with and opened for The Alarm in US show and shows in the United Kingdom. When Julia Othmer is in Kansas City she plays with Johnny Hamil on bass, Chris Tady on guitar, John Floyd Whitaker on drums. Info: http://www.juliaothmer.com. Julia Othmer joined us onWMM on Nov. 11, 2020.] [“‘Heroes'” is a song by English singer-songwriter David Bowie. It was co-written by Bowie and Brian Eno, produced by Bowie and Tony Visconti, and recorded in July and August 1977 at Hansa Studio by the Wall. It was released on 23 September 1977 as the lead single from his 12th studio album of the same name, backed with the song “V-2 Schneider”. A product of Bowie’s “Berlin” period, the track was not a huge hit in the United Kingdom or the United States after its release, but it has since become one of his signature songs. In January 2016, following Bowie’s death, the song reached a new peak of number 12 in the UK Singles Chart. “‘Heroes'” has been cited as Bowie’s second-most covered song after “Rebel Rebel”. Inspired by the sight of Bowie’s producer-engineer Tony Visconti embracing his lover by the Berlin Wall, the song tells the story of two lovers, one from East and one from West Berlin. Bowie’s performance of “‘Heroes'” on 6 June 1987, at the German Reichstag in West Berlin has been considered a catalyst to the later fall of the Berlin Wall. Following his death in January 2016, the German government thanked Bowie for “helping to bring down the Wall”, adding “you are now among Heroes”. “‘Heroes'” has received numerous accolades since its release, as seen with its inclusion on lists ranking the “greatest songs” compiled by various music publications; Rolling Stone named the song the 46th greatest ever, NME named it the 15th greatest. Bowie scholar David Buckley has written that “‘Heroes'” “is perhaps pop’s definitive statement of the potential triumph of the human spirit over adversity”.]

Ondara —“I’m Afraid of Americans”
from: Tales of America (The Second Coming) / Verve Forecast – UMG Recordings / Sept. 20, 2019
[28 year old J.S. Ondara is a Kenyan singer-songwriter whose debut album, Tales of America, was released on February 15, 2019 via Verve Label Group. J.S. Ondara was born in August 1992 in Nairobi, Kenya. As a child, he wrote poems and stories as well as songs despite not having an instrument to play them on because his family couldn’t afford one. He was inspired by Radiohead, Nirvana, Death Cab For Cutie, Jeff Buckley, Pearl Jam, Guns N’ Roses, and Bob Dylan. He grew up listening to rock songs on his older sisters’ battery-powered radio. Having discovered The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan following a dispute with a friend over whether Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door was a Guns N’ Roses song, Ondara resolved to travel to the United States to pursue a career in music. In February 2013, after winning in the green card lottery, he moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota at the age of 20. He taught himself to play guitar and perform during open mic nights. Eventually, he decided to study music therapy in college, but dropped out of school to return to playing small shows at coffee houses after attending a concert. After moving to Minnesota, Ondara tried his hand at making music and performing in small venues. His big break came when Minneapolis radio station KCMP 89.3 The Current played one of his songs on air by pulling audio from his YouTube channel, where he had been uploading covers of his favorite songs. At the time, he was going by the name Jay Smart. Ondara’s debut album, Tales of America, was released in February 2019 by Verve Label Group. Despite only 11 tracks making the final tracklist, Ondara wrote more than 100 songs for the album, all based on an immigrant’s life in America. The album was produced by Mike Viola of the Candy Butchers. In support of the album, Ondara embarked on his first headlining tour in March 2019. After the release of the album, Ondara debuted on Billboard’s Emerging Artist chart at No. 37 in March 2019. The album also landed on the Billboard Heatseekers Album, Americana/Folk Album Sales, and Rock Album Sales charts. He was nominated for Best Emerging Act at the 2019 Americana Music Honors & Awards. Ondara cites Bob Dylan as his musical hero, which is why he chose to live in Minnesota and why he wears his signature fedora. He has toured with the Milk Carton Kids, Lindsey Buckingham and in 2019, he opened for select dates on tour with Neil Young.]

David Bowie – “Under Presssure” w/ Gail Ann Dorsey
from: A Reality Tour (Bonus Track Version) [Live] / Sony Music Entertaiment / Jan. 22, 2010
[“Under Pressure” is a song by the British rock band Queen and singer David Bowie. Originally released as a single in October 1981, it was later included on Queen’s 1982 album Hot Space. The song reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Queen’s second number-one hit in their home country (after 1975’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”, which topped the chart for nine weeks) and Bowie’s third (after the 1975 reissue of “Space Oddity” and “Ashes to Ashes” in 1980). The song charted in the top 10 in more than ten countries around the world, and peaked at No. 29 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in January 1982. // A Reality Tour is a live album by David Bowie that was released on January 25, 2010. The album features November 22, and 23, 2003 performances in Dublin during his concert tour A Reality Tour. The 2004, live version features David Bowie – vocals, guitars, stylophone, harmonica; Earl Slick – guitar; Gerry Leonard – guitar; Gail Ann Dorsey – bass guitar, backing vocals, lead vocals on “Under Pressure”; Sterling Campbell – drums; Mike Garson – keyboards, piano; Catherine Russell – keyboards, percussion, acoustic guitar, backing vocals. A Reality Tour was a worldwide concert tour by David Bowie in support of the Reality album. The tour commenced on October 7, 2003 at the Forum, Copenhagen, Denmark continuing through Europe, North America, Asia, including a return to New Zealand and Australia for the first time since the 1987 Glass Spider Tour. The tour grossed $46,000,000, making it the ninth-highest grossing tour of 2004. At over 110 shows, the tour was the longest tour of Bowie’s career. Bowie played Kansas City, May 10, 2004, at Starlight Theatre. I was there, seven rows from the stage.]

Ryuichi Sakamoto – “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence”
from: Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence / Milan Entertainment / 2015
[Ryuichi Sakamoto was born Jan. 17, 1952. He is a Japanese composer, singer, songwriter, record producer, activist, & actor who has pursued a diverse range of styles as a solo artist and as a member of Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO). With bandmates Haruomi Hosono & Yukihiro Takahashi, Sakamoto influenced and pioneered a number of electronic music genres. Sakamoto began his career while at university in the 1970s as a session musician, producer, & arranger. His first major success came in 1978 as co-founder of YMO. He concurrently pursued a solo career, releasing the experimental electronic fusion album Thousand Knives in 1978. Two years later, he released the album B-2 Unit. It included the track “Riot in Lagos”, which was significant in the development of electro and hip hop music. He produced more solo records, and collaborate with many international artists, David Sylvian, Carsten Nicolai, Youssou N’Dour, Fennesz among them. Sakamoto composed music for the opening ceremony of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and his composition “Energy Flow” (1999) was the first instrumental #1 single in Japan’s Oricon charts history. As a film-score composer, Sakamoto has won an Oscar, a BAFTA, a Grammy, 2 Golden Globe Awards. Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence (1983) marked his debut as both an actor (playing Captain Yonoi the commander of a POW camp in Japanese-occupied Java and also serving as the conposer of the film’s score. Its main theme was adapted into the single “Forbidden Colours” which became an international hit. His most successful work as a film composer was The Last Emperor (1987), after which he continued earning accolades composing for films: The Sheltering Sky (1990), Little Buddha (1993), The Revenant (2015). Sakamoto has also worked as a composer & a scenario writer on anime & video games. In 2009, he was awarded the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres from the Ministry of Culture of France for his contributions to music.]

David Bowie –“Well you know what, this has been an incredible pleasure”
from: Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film / Parlophone / September 16, 2022
[Moonage Daydream – A Brett Morgen Film is the soundtrack to the 2022 documentary film Moonage Daydream based on the life of English singer-songwriter David Bowie. It was released digitally on September 16, 2022 by Rhino Entertainment and Parlophone Records, preceded by a two-disc CD release on November 18, 2022 and a three-disc vinyl edition, set for later release in 2023.

You’ve been listening to Wednesday MidDay Medley’s Tribute to David Bowie on 90.1 FM.

We just heard and new recording of “Blackstar” performed by Chase Horseman, followed by Calvin Arsenia with an original unreleased track called “Ashes”, then the Steve Reich remix of “Love is Lost” from THE NEXT DAY (Extra), followed by The Sea and Cake with their version of “Sound and Vision” from Bowie’s LOW, and then electronic music pioneers Kraftwerk who name check Bowie and Iggy Pop in lyrics to their “Trans-Europe Express” from 1977; and Bowie responding with “V-2 Schneider” from HEROES of the same year; Julia Othmer‘s beautiful cover of “Heroes,” followed by Ondara, with his version of “I’m Afraid of Americans” from Bowie’s EARTHLING from 1997; follwed by “Under Pressure” from Bowie’s Reality Tour Live with bandmate and bassist Gail Ann Dorsey singing the Freddy Mercury part. Bowie’s Reality Tour played Kansas City, the week I startd doing WMM, May 10, 2004, at Starlight Theatre. We ended with Oscar winning film composer Ryuichi Sakamoto who in his very first film acting role and first job as a composer of a film’s soundtrack, played opposite of David Bowie in the film “Merry Christmas Mr. Lawrence” from 1983.

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

Next week on January 15, 2025, we present “Remembering MLK,” our annual tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., born Jan. 15, 1929. We’ll play: Bobby Watson & The I Have A Dream Project (featuring Glenn North), Krystle Warren, The Freedom Afair, Calvin Arsenia, The Black Creatures, H.E.R., Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, Curtis Mayfield, Maceo & The Macks, Mahalia Jackson, Marian Anderson, The Staple Singers, Pops Staples, Mavis Staples, The Swan Silvertones, Sweet Honey in The Rock, Aaron Neville, Tramaine Hawkins, Ella Mitchell, Billy Porter, Solomon Burke, Nina Simone, Pete Seeger, Sarah Lee Guthrie & Johnny Irion, Soweto Gospel Choir, The Intl. Noise Conspiracy, and Labelle.

In 2 weeks on Jan 22 we’ll spin even more Bowie in honor of The Band That Fell To Earth who will be presenting their annual Tribute to Bowie with a VIP show Thursday, January 23, where they play the entire “Let’s Dance” album and regular shows Friday and Saturday, January 24th and 25th at recordBar. Mike Dillon will also be on the WMM show.

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

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

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

Show #1077

WMM Playlist from December 25, 2024

Posted on December 26, 2024 by Mark Manning

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 25, 2024

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

Wednesday MidDay Medley presents The Finale! part-four, 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.

This Wednesday, we’ll count down #30 through #1 with tracks from: Eddie Moore, Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark, The Swallowtails, Kat King, Clarke Wyatt, Supermoto, Amble Haunt, The Roseline, Miss Boating, BLACKSTARKIDS, Flight Attendant, Waxahatchee, Krystle Warren & The Faculty, The Highwater, Little Miss Dynamite, Scott Hrabko & The Rabbits, Shabaka, Jamie xx, Charli xcx, X, Beth Gibbons, Moses Sumney, The Cure, Mdou Moctar, Leyla McCalla, Hembree, Cheery, Nala Sinephro, Adrianne Lenker, and Meshell Ndegeocello.

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.

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

2.(#30.) Shabaka – “End Of Innocence”
from: Perceive It’s Beauty, Acknowledge It’s Grace / Impulse Records / April 12, 2024
[Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace is the solo debut studio album of London jazz musician Shabaka Hutchings, working under the name Shabaka. The album was preceded by two singles, “End of Innocence” and “I’ll Do Whatever You Want”. // The album follows Hutchings’s hiatus from the saxophone and the end of his bands Sons of Kemet and the Comet Is Coming, and sees him focusing on different types of flutes, including the shakuhachi and the svirel, as well as the clarinet. // The album was recorded in Van Gelder Studio in 2022. Hutchings shared producing duties with Dilip Harris, and brought in a long list of collaborators including his own father Anum Iyapo, André 3000, Laraaji, and Floating Points. Musically, it focuses on jazz and new age music. Critical reception for the album was positive, highlighting the boldness of Hutchings’s shift in style. // On January 1, 2023, Hutchings announced his intention to take an indefinite hiatus from playing the saxophone, explaining later in the year that his enthusiasm for the instrument had waned after years of intense touring. This also coincided with the end of his two bands, Sons of Kemet and the Comet Is Coming. Hutchings’s last live saxophone performance was on 7 December 2023, where he played John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme at the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London. // Hutchings’s new musical interests lied primarily with the flute and similar instruments, having started with them in 2019 after acquiring his first shakuhachi. Subsequent instruments Hutchings picked up include Mayan Teotihuacan drone flutes, Brazilian pifanos, Native American flutes, Slavic svirels, and South American quenas. The move coincided with an increase in attention on jazz flute following the release of André 3000’s 2023 album New Blue Sun, on which Hutchings contributed shakuhachi to one track. // Hutchings announced the album on 28 February 2024, set for a release on April 12, by Impulse! Records. On the same day, he released its lead single, “End of Innocence”, along with a music video directed by Phoebe Boswell. “End of Innocence” sees Hutchings playing the clarinet, with a band consisting of pianist Jason Moran, drummer Nasheet Waits, and percussionist Carlos Niño. // The second single, “I’ll Do Whatever You Want”, was released on March 21. Hutchings cowrote the song with Laraaji and Floating Points. It features Hutchings on shakuhachi, André 3000 on drone flute, Laraaji’s wordless vocals, Floating Points on Rhodes Chroma synthesizer and vibraphone, Esperanza Spalding and Tom Herbert on bass, Dave Okumu on guitar, Marcus Gilmore on drums, and Niño on percussion. Hutchings said the song is “about surrender and the intimate space we go to within the grasp of possession.” Other musicians on the record include Moses Sumney, Brandee Younger, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, Saul Williams, Lianne La Havas, and Elucid. // Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace is Hutchings’s solo debut studio album, following his 2022 solo EP Afrikan Culture, which also centered Hutchings’s woodwind play. The titles of both releases are connected; in Hutchings’s words, they’re mean to be read as “Afrikan Culture, comma, Perceive Its Beauty, Acknowledge Its Grace”, with his next album being “the next sentence in a long form poem that encapsulates, hopefully, all the solo records of my career.” The song names on the album were extracted from a poem written for the album.]

3.(#29.) Jamie xx – “Dafodil (ft. Kelsey Lu, John Glacier, Panda Bear)”
from: In Waves / Young / September 20, 2024
[5th single, released August 29, 2024 from In Waves is the second studio album by English producer Jamie xx. It was preceded by the singles “Baddy on the Floor” featuring Honey Dijon and “Treat Each Other Right”, and will be his first album in nine years, following In Colour (2015). The album also includes collaborations with Jamie xx’s xx bandmates Romy and Oliver Sim, Kelsey Lu, John Glacier, Panda Bear, Robyn, the Avalanches, and Oona Doherty. An additional collaboration with Erykah Badu will feature on the deluxe vinyl. // The album was recorded over a period of four years. In a statement, Jamie xx likened his experiences since releasing his previous album to “waves that we have all experienced together and alone”, and said that he wanted to “make something fun, joyful and introspective all at once” as “the best moments on a dance floor are usually that” for him. From 2022 to early 2024, Jamie xx released the standalone singles “Let’s Do It Again”, “Kill Dem”, and “It’s So Good”, which are included on the deluxe vinyl edition of the album. // James Thomas Smith (born 28 October 1988), known professionally as Jamie xx, is an English musician, DJ, record producer, and remixer. He is known for both his solo work and as a member of the indie pop band the xx. // He has been described as a “driving force” behind the xx,[2] contributing to the group’s significant commercial and critical success. As a solo artist, he has been recognised with a 2015 Mercury Prize nomination, and a 2016 Grammy Award for Best Dance/Electronic Album nomination for In Colour. // Smith was born in London on 28 October 1988. His musical career began in 2006 when he joined the xx accompanying old schoolmates Romy Madley Croft, Oliver Sim, and Baria Qureshi of the Elliott School in London, notable for alumni including Hot Chip, Burial, and Four Tet. He first used the stage name Jamie xx in July 2009 in a promotional mix for the band’s debut album xx released on the FACT magazine mix series. The mixtape was compiled by Jamie Smith and featured, amongst others, four tracks credited to Jamie xx – one self-production and three remixes. The xx album went on to become platinum in the UK. Afterward, Jamie Smith went on to do more remix work for artists like Florence + The Machine, Adele, Jack Peñate and Glasser. // In late 2010, a Jamie xx remix of the song “NY Is Killing Me” from Gil Scott-Heron’s last album I’m New Here aired on radio stations across the UK and Europe. The remix of “I’ll Take Care of U” followed in January 2011. Both singles drew the attention of the general public and the critics. They set the way for a 13-track remix album entitled We’re New Here, produced entirely by Jamie xx and credited to “Gil Scott-Heron and Jamie xx”. The album was released on February 21, 2011 on the XL Recordings label, but a full-album preview could be streamed on the website of The Guardian as early as 14 February. We’re New Here received critical acclaim and was named “a cohesive, considered masterpiece in its own right” by BBC’s Ele Beattie. // On June 6, 2011, the two-track self-produced single “Far Nearer / Beat For” was released. The song “Far Nearer” was selected Best New Track by Pitchfork, and the double A-side single charted at number 128 on the UK Singles Chart. Later the same year, Smith produced the title track off Drake’s second album, Take Care, which features Rihanna. In addition, Smith helped create several reworks for Radiohead’s song “Bloom” which were released on a remix album entitled TKOL RMX 1234567. He also co-produced the song “When It’s All Over” with Alicia Keys on her Girl on Fire album. In 2014, he announced an upcoming collaboration with John Talabot on Tim Sweeney’s Beats in Space online radio show. In 2014, he released the singles “Girl/Sleep Sound” and “All Under One Roof Raving”. // On 27 March 2015, he released two singles: “Loud Places”, featuring the xx’s Romy Madley Croft, and “Gosh”. On the same day he also announced that his debut album, In Colour, would be out on 1 June 2015. Ahead of its release, In Colour was streamed on iTunes as a preview with album-spanning visuals that ‘reacted’ to each sound.[14] It was ultimately released on 29 May 2015 to widespread critical acclaim, debuting at number three on the UK Albums Chart and receiving nominations for the 2015 Mercury Prize and for Best Dance/Electronic Album at the 58th Grammy Awards. // Jamie xx composed the score for a ballet, Tree of Codes, commissioned by Manchester International Festival for its 2015 edition. Based on a novel of the same name by Jonathan Safran Foer, the ballet was choreographed by Wayne McGregor and had a set created by Olafur Eliasson. // In 2020, he released his first single in five years, “Idontknow”, which received positive to lukewarm reception from critics. He was credited on Tyler, the Creator’s 2021 album Call Me If You Get Lost as a co-producer on the track “RISE!”. // Jamie xx has worked on each of his The xx bandmates’ respective solo albums: he produced Oliver Sim’s Hideous Bastard (2022), and co-produced Romy’s Mid Air (2023).]

(#28.) Charli xcx – “Apple”
from: BRAT / Atlantic Recording Company / June 7, 2024
[Brat is the sixth studio album by English singer Charli XCX. It features production by Charli XCX, her longtime executive producer A. G. Cook, Finn Keane, Cirkut, her partner George Daniel, and others. The album draws influence from the 2000s English rave music scene, with a more aggressive club sound than her previous album, Crash (2022). A deluxe edition, Brat and It’s the Same but There’s Three More Songs So It’s Not, with three additional tracks was released on 10 June 2024. A remix album, titled Brat and It’s Completely Different but Also Still Brat, featuring 20 guest artists, was released on October 11, 2024. // Brat was met with widespread acclaim from critics. Commercially, it peaked at number one in the UK, Australia, and Ireland. It also reached the top ten in 12 additional countries, including the United States, where it debuted at number three, Charli XCX’s highest debut for an album. According to Metacritic, it is the highest rated album of 2024 and the 16th-highest-rated album of all time. The album was shortlisted for the Mercury Prize for 2024 Album of the Year. The cover art and aesthetic became a popular Internet trend, and was adopted by U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris’s 2024 presidential campaign after Charli XCX tweeted about the candidate. // After Joe Biden decided to withdraw from the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the official Biden-Harris campaign profile renamed itself “Kamala HQ” and changed its banner picture in imitation of the album cover, replacing “brat” with “kamala hq”. This occurred after Charli XCX tweeted about Harris on X (formerly Twitter), saying “kamala IS brat”. Charli XCX later stated that although not meant as an explicit endorsement, she was “happy to help prevent democracy from failing forever”. Multiple TikTok videos have shown edits of songs from the album with footage of Harris in the background. Some analysts have suggested the connection between the campaign and album will create enthusiasm among young voters.// English singer Charli XCX has released six studio albums (seven including the limited-release 14), five mixtapes, three extended plays, one live album, one soundtrack album, one remix album, two DJ mixes, 48 singles (including 15 as a featured artist), and 13 promotional singles. In 2007, XCX began recording her debut album on a loan granted by her parents. Titled 14, after her age at the time, it received only a restricted public release. Two singles, “!Franchesckaar!” and double A-side “Emelline” / “Art Bitch”, were released in late 2008 under Orgy Music. In June 2012, Charli XCX released her first mixtape, titled Heartbreaks and Earthquakes, a one-track file consisting of eight songs. A second mixtape, titled Super Ultra, was released in November of the same year. Charli XCX’s major-label debut studio album, True Romance, was released in April 2013, and peaked at number 85 on the UK Albums Chart. While failing to appear on any main album charts internationally, the album reached number five on the Heatseekers Albums chart in the United States and number 11 on the ARIA Hitseekers chart in Australia. The album spawned five singles—”Stay Away”, “Nuclear Seasons”, “You’re the One”, “You (Ha Ha Ha)” and “What I Like”. In 2012, Charli XCX was featured on Icona Pop’s song “I Love It”, which peaked at number one in the UK and reached the top 10 in various countries including the US, Canada, Ireland and Germany. // “SuperLove” was released as a stand-alone single in December 2013, peaking at number 62 on the UK Singles Chart. In 2014, Charli XCX released the single “Boom Clap” for the soundtrack to the film The Fault in Our Stars. The song was an international success, peaking at number six on the UK Singles Chart, number eight on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reaching the top 10 in Australia, Canada and New Zealand. “Boom Clap” was later included on Charli XCX’s second studio album, Sucker, released in December 2014. The album charted at number 15 in her native UK, number 28 in the United States, and entered the top 50 in several other countries including Austria, Belgium, France, Ireland, and Switzerland. Sucker also spawned the top-40 UK single “Break the Rules” and the top-10 UK single “Doing It”, which features English singer Rita Ora. Also in 2014, Charli XCX was featured on Iggy Azalea’s “Fancy”, which topped the US Billboard Hot 100 and charted in the top 10 in several countries including the UK, Canada, Ireland and Australia. // In 2016, Charli XCX released the Vroom Vroom EP, which while not a commercial success, signaled a move for the singer into more experimental electronic territory. In promotion of her third studio album, she released the top-40 hits “After the Afterparty” and “Boys”. After the album leaked however, the project was scrapped. In 2017 Charli XCX released two more experimental mixtapes, Number 1 Angel, and Pop 2, both of which received critical acclaim. // In September 2019, she released her third studio album Charli, which debuted at number 14 in the United Kingdom, number 42 in the United States, and entered the top 50 in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and Spain. The album’s lead single “1999” peaked at number 13 in the UK. She followed up Charli with How I’m Feeling Now (2020), an album recorded in six weeks during COVID-19 lockdowns. The album debuted at number 33 in the UK and received critical acclaim. // Charli XCX released her fifth studio album Crash in March 2022, her last album under with Asylum, before ultimately renewing her contract in 2023, with Atlantic. Crash is her most commercially successful album to date, topping the charts in the UK, Australia, and Ireland, and becoming her first top 20 in the United States, Belgium and Germany. It also spawned the top-40 single “Beg for You”. // In June 2024, Charli released her sixth studio album, Brat, with the Atlantic record label; it was well received both critically and commercially, becoming her biggest hit album within a month of its release.]

(#27.) X – “Big Black X”
from: Smoke & Fiction / Fat Possum Records / August 2, 2024
[X is an American punk rock band formed in Los Angeles. The original members are vocalist Exene Cervenka, vocalist-bassist John Doe, guitarist Billy Zoom and drummer D. J. Bonebrake. The band released seven studio albums from 1980 to 1993. After a period of inactivity during the mid-to-late 1990s, X reunited in the early 2000s and continues to tour as of 2024. // X achieved limited mainstream success but influenced various genres of music, including punk rock, Americana, and folk rock. In 1991, Music critic Robert Hilburn identified them as one of the most influential bands of their era. In 2003, X’s first two studio albums, Los Angeles and Wild Gift, were ranked by Rolling Stone as being among the 500 greatest albums of all time. Los Angeles was ranked 91st on Pitchfork’s Top 100 Albums of the 1980s. // “John Doe, Exene Cervenka, DJ Bonebrake and that wild, crazy rockabilly guitar weirdo, Billy Zoom, are four of the most important people in the history of American music, and I do not say that with hyperbole. I genuinely mean that.” – Brian Oake (KCMP) // “flashes back to the freewheeling, rockabilly-infused punk rock of their early records. Exene Cervenka’s voice sounds as intense and titanic as ever.” – Stereogum // “pays tribute to the last 40+ years and sounds like classic X.” – Brooklyn Vegan // “Few bands before or since have captured the sound & feel of LA quite as well as X.” – Louder Sound // “the band name “X” in some way “marks the spot” at the nexus where punk, folk, and rock came together.” – American Songwriter // “Exene’s iconic harmonies with singer/bassist John Doe kick in during the chorus, as Billy Zoom holds down slick rockabilly riffs alongside the steady rhythms of drummer DJ Bonebrake.” – Consequence of Sound. // X plays Uptown Theatre, 3700 Broadway Blvd., KCMO, Saturday, Juy 6, at 7:00pm with Jesse Ahern]

(#26.) The Highwater – “Spilling (Clean)”
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.

(#25.) Little Miss Dynamite – “Coffee and Tunes”
from: Grow Up / Rural Grit Records / May 3, 2024
[Little Miss Dynamite is a four piece string band with Beth Watts Nelson on lead vocals & banjo, Betse Ellis (of The Wilders, Betse & Clarke) on fiddle, Brandon Day (of The Matchsellers) on bass, and Caleb Gardner (of Konza Swamp) on mandolin, guitar & vocals. Engineered and Mixed by Clarke Wyatt, Gnomes and Goats Studio.More info at: http://www.bethwattsnelson.com]

(#24.) Scott Hrabko & The Rabbits – “Stragglers (A Slight Return)”
from: Other Cats, Other Bags, Vol VI / Scott Hrabko / June 20, 2024
[.. And on the first day of Summer, 2024, it’s the fourth and final volume of Other Cats, Other Bags. This one began life in sessions recorded by Chad Bryan at his studio, with longtime stalwart Jason Beers, brand new Rabbit, Matt Brahl, and guest turns by Dave Randall (keyboardist with The Ants), Marco Pascolini and Dave Regnier (Dead Voices). The other two tracks were recorded at Hrabkotron with legendary cowboy/doo-wop singers, Leo and Roger Eilts, along with Hank Tilbury. // Jason Beers on piano & bass guitar; Matt Brahl on drums & percussion, Leo Eilts on harmony vocal & upright Bass; Roger Eilts on harmony vocal & guitar; Hank Tilbury on harmony vocal; Dave Randall on piano, Marco Pascolini on baritone guitar & steel guitar, Dave Regnier on vocals; Scott Hrabk0 on vocals & guitar. // All songs ©2024, Scott Hrabko. // Basic tracks for Borrowed Blues and Lost Country Song: Recorded by Chad Bryan at the anthill. Mixed by Scott Hrabko. // A Street Called Riddance and Stragglers (A Slight Return): Recorded and mixed by SH. Mastered by Mike Nolte at Eureka Mastering, Portland, OR. // Cover: Sam Hrabko http://www.inprnt.com/profile/hrab/ // On March 19, 2024 Scott Hrabko released Other Cats, Other Bags – Volume 1 (4– track EP). On April 19, 2024 Scott Hrabko released Other Cats, Other Bags – Volume II (4-track EP). On May 27, 2024 Scott Hrabko released Other Cats, Other Bags – Volume III (4– track EP). These 4 EP releases were part of Multi-Volume Project containing recordings that grew from sessions Scott did at home with a few longtime Rabbits and some new friends from the Kansas City Music Community. // On July 1, 2022 Scott Hrabko and The Rabitts released The Wonderful World Of Scott Hrabko & the Rabbits. This recording was #12 on WMM’s 120 Best Recordings of 2022. These two sprawling discs contain song-craft reminiscent of everything from classic ‘60s adult pop to nostalgia-free Americana to cut ’n’ paste hip hop-inspired grooves — and some wild detours between. “But it’s all me.” – Hrabko. The Rabbits, this time around: Jason Beers on Bass, Organ, Piano, Banjo, Harmonica, Slide Guitar; Clarke Wyatt on Drums; Matt Hopper on Lead Guitar; Chris DeVictor on Upright Bass; Chris Hudson on Nylon String Guitar, Mandolin, Lead Guitar; Mike Lindsey on Bass; Tim Higgins on Drums, Percussion; Gary Paredes on Slide Guitar, Wah Wah Guitar; Chad Brothers on Lead Acoustic, and Havilah Bruders on Vocals, with Scott Hrabko on Voices, Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Drums, Percussion, Banjo, Static Outbursts, Ghosts Knob Twiddling and Digital Chicanery. This 2-CD, 22-song release, THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF SCOTT HRABKO & THE RABBITS on July 1, 2022. The double album was recorded at Hrabko’s home studio in a time of a global pandemic and social unrest. Mike Warren writes in No Depression Magazine, “Hrabko’s rootsy songs are filled with trap doors, hidden nooks, and secret passageways. They’re like those dreams within comfortably familiar houses that suddenly have brand new rooms.” Scott Hrabko & The Rabbits have released six singles and released the albums and EPs: LAST DANCE (EP) in 2020, SMASH HITS FROM A PARALLEL UNIVERSE (EP) in 2019, SUMMER in 2017, and BISCUITS AND GRAVITY in 2015. Scott Hrabko’s 2013 critically acclaimed solo release, GONE PLACES was said to be 30 years in the making. Scott Hrabko has played with The Original Sinners, as well as the 1980s bands: The Splinters, and The Andersons. In the early 1990s Scott performed as a solo artist in coffee houses with Iris Dement and Howard Eisberg. More info at: http://www.scotthrabko.com]

10:28 – Underwriting

(#23.) Beth Gibbons – “Burden of Life”
from: Lives Outgrown / Domino / April 14, 2024
[Lives Outgrown is the debut solo studio album by English musician Beth Gibbons, released on 17 May 2024 through Domino Recording Company. The album was produced by Gibbons, James Ford and Lee Harris. It was preceded by the singles “Floating on a Moment”, “Reaching Out” and “Lost Changes”. // Gibbons wrote the album over a decade, with topics including “motherhood, anxiety, menopause, and mortality”. Gibbons said that the album was directly influenced by the deaths of family and friends over the preceding several years and she “realised what life was like with no hope” // eth Gibbons (born 4 January 1965) is an English singer-songwriter, best known as the lead singer and lyricist for the band Portishead, who have released three albums. She released an album with Rustin Man, Out of Season, in 2002, and a recording of Górecki’s Symphony No. 3 with the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra in 2019. She released a solo album in 2024 titled Lives Outgrown. // Gibbons was born in Exeter, Devon, England and raised on a farm with three sisters. Her parents divorced when she was young. She attended St Katherine’s School in Pill, Somerset, in North Somerset. // At 22, she moved to Bath, then Bristol to pursue her singing career, where she met Geoff Barrow, her future collaborator in Portishead, on an Enterprise Allowance course in 1991. // With Adrian Utley, Gibbons and Barrow released the first Portishead album Dummy in 1994 and have produced two other studio albums, a live album, and various singles in the years since. // She has also collaborated on a separate project with former Talk Talk bassist Paul Webb (Rustin Man). Before she joined Geoff Barrow in Portishead, she had auditioned for the singer’s slot in .O.rang, the group formed by Webb after Talk Talk’s late-Eighties departure from EMI, but Portishead’s sudden success pre-empted matters. In October 2002, they released the album Out of Season in the United Kingdom under the name Beth Gibbons and Rustin Man. The album peaked at number 28 in the UK Albums Chart. It was released in the United States a year later: while touring in North America, Variety favourably described her performance with Rustin as “Billie Holiday fronting Siouxsie and the Banshees”. // In June 2013, Gibbons announced plans for a new solo album with Domino Records. She contributed vocals to a cover of the song “Black Sabbath” with the British metal band Gonga, released on April 24, 2014. // In 2018, Gibbons contributed vocal performances, along with Elizabeth Fraser of the Cocteau Twins, to the Spill Festival held in Ipswich in an audio installation entitled ‘Clarion Calls’, which uses the voices of 100 women to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I. // In 2014, Gibbons performed Symphony No. 3 by Henryk Górecki with the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Krzysztof Penderecki. Gibbons sang in Polish. The performance was released in 2019; reviewing the album for Pitchfork, Jayson Greene wrote: “Part of the tension comes from hearing her untrained voice scale these rocky heights. Her vibrato, tight and trilling and barely controlled, sounds an awful lot like someone fighting off a panic attack. This would get her dismissed from a traditional opera audition, probably, but it is magnificently effective at sending raw shudders through what can be a pretty well-worn work.” In 2022, Gibbons featured on the track “Mother I Sober” from Kendrick Lamar’s album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. For her collaboration in the album she received a nomination for Album of the Year at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards as a featured artist and songwriter. On February 7, 2024, Gibbons announced the release of her first solo studio album in over 20 years. The album, titled Lives Outgrown, was released May 17, 2024. It was announced alongside a single titled “Floating on a Moment”, with its second single “Reaching Out” being released later that year on 10 April. // She has cited Nina Simone, Bono of U2 for his performance on The Joshua Tree, Otis Redding and Jimmy Cliff as musical inspirations. She has covered Janis Joplin songs and enjoys the music of Janis Ian.]

(#22.) Moses Sumney – “Vintage”
from: Sophcore – EP / TUMTUM Records / August 2, 2024
[A collaboration with Portland producer Graham Jonson, who goes by quickly, quickly, yields Sophcore’s prettiest and liveliest moments. “Gold Coast” begins as a sensual, puttering thing indebted to Bjork’s Vespertine. Sumney’s chalky falsetto complements and works against the plucked guitars, distorted multi-tracked vocals, and synths; his impressionistic lyrics (“Talk in tongues, testify/Sunrise skin, color of clay”) say no thanks to coherence, bless them. A symphony of gurgles and music-box melodies cushions “I’m Better (I’m Bad),” in which Sumney recreates with louche delight a dialogue between himself and a feminized object of desire. Over Sophcore’s recombinant grooves, Sumney radiates a sense of fun. Confidence in his vocal talents doesn’t congeal into self-regard. Turns out he’s right: Trills and melisma suit arrangements that swell and contract like protoplasmic organisms. // Moses Sumney released grae on May 15, 2020 on Jagjaguar Records. Sumney made his US television debut with a performance of “Cut Me” on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on February 11, 2020. Græ (stylized in all lowercase) is a double album composed of Part 1 and Part 2. The first part was released digitally on February 21, 2020. The second part and the full album was released on May 15, 2020. Græ features a diverse arrangement of musical and technical contributions from Daniel Lopatin, Thundercat, James Blake, Taiye Selasi, John Congleton, Rob Moose, Ezra Miller, Michael Chabon, Adult Jazz, Matthew Otto, Ian Chang, FKJ, Nubya Garcia, Shahzad Ismaily, Jill Scott, Tom Gallo, Shabaka Hutchings, Tunde Jegede, Brandee Younger, Jamie Stewart, and Mac DeMarco. The album was preceded by the singles “Virile”, “Polly”, “Me in 20 Years”, “Cut Me”, and “Bless Me”.Second album and follow up to his debut studio full length album Aromanticism released September 22, 2017 from American singer-songwriter Moses Frimpong Sumney, born May 19, 1990 in San Bernardino, California to Ghanaian parents. He moved with his family back to Ghana at the age of 10. Sumney described his childhood as “Americanized” by this age and had difficulty adjusting to the culture of Ghana. He did not learn to play any instruments until he was older, writing a cappella music for years instead. Sumney did not perform his musical compositions publicly until he was 20. He attended the University of California, Los Angeles. He is based in Los Angeles, California. His self recorded debut EP, Mid-City Island, was released in 2014 and self recorded onto a 4-track recorder given to him by TV on the Radio’s Dave Sitek. The EP was described by Pitchfork as “primarily composed of first-takes and improvisation; the music is stirring but purposefully incomplete”. Sumney has performed as an opening act for Solange, Sufjan Stevens, and Erykah Badu. Sumney released another 5-song EP in 2016, titled Lamentations which featured a guest appearance from Thundercat.]

(#21.) Eddie Moore – “Freewheel”
from: Aperture (Live Piano Works) / Eddie Moore Music / March 5, 2024
[All songs written by Eddie Moore. Recorded by Eddie Moore and Jaylen Ward. Mixed by Eddie Moore. Mastered by Crayge Lindesay. Album art by Jeremy Ian Thomas. This project presents snapshots into the life of Eddie Moore. The fun times riding bikes, getting lost in the woods, and spending time with loved ones. As a special solo sharing, it only felt right to capture the velvet soothing energy live on stage at Corvino’s, where experimentation and vulnerability are encouraged. // Special thanks to the Corvinos and the staff for letting me sneak in during the “off hours” and post up for a few hours in a blizzard. // When you speak to Eddie Moore you find an ocean of calm, and when you listen to Eddie Moore you find the depth of that ocean. Moore reaches from the soul with every note, in a deep way, with a tension just below the surface. His yearning for exploration and curiosity in music contribute to an ebb and flow freedom of expression. // On April 20, 2023 Eddie Moore released the single “Tuunami” Recorded & produced at Moore’s Tribe Studios, this song features Jaylen Ward on drums. Mixed & mastered by veteran KC savant Crayge Lindesay. // Eddie Moore released his critically acclaimed album INTUITION on October 28, 2022. Written & Produced by Eddie Moore. Recorded at Tribe Studios. Featuring Tim Ogutu on guitar. Mix & Mastered by Rick Carson at Make Believe Studios. Album Art by Brandon Wilson. // Eddie Moore released the single, “Love Song” (with Joel Castillo and Bree Cummings) on October 22, 2021. // Eddie Moore released “We Chillin’” on April 9, 2021. // Eddie Moore’s band We The People released their album MISUNDERSTOOD on September 25, 2020. // Eddie Moore is the recipient of the 2016 Charlotte Street Generative Performance Award for his genre bending collaborations. Raised in Houston Texas, he began his musical journey at Texas Southern University where he later earned a Bachelors in Arts and immersed himself in the Houston music scene. Eddie relocated to Kansas City to study under Bobby Watson at the University of Missouri-Kansas City where he received a M.A in Jazz Studies. 2017’s Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art “Artist in Residence” in collaboration with Rashid Johnson. In 2018 his work with The Outer Circle was nominated for an Indie Music Award for “007”. His music has been featured commercially for Sprint, Netflix’s “Queer Eye”, and Morgan Cooper’s short film “Room Tone”. Moore’ has shared the stage and recordings with Bobby Watson, Logan Richardson, Maurice Brown, Boys II Men, Brian Blade and the Fellowship, John Baptiste, Erykah Badu, Mosdef, Bilal, Ledisi, Chantae Cann, Krystal Warren, Matt Otto, Brandon Draper, Andre Hayward, Tivon Pennicott, Various Blonde, Dominique Sanders, 77 Jefferson, and the Marcus Lewis Big Band. We The People released the single, “Single Double” on June 10, 2021. Written & Produced By Eddie Moore with Moore on keyboards, key bass, & programming; Zach Morrow on drums; and Jason Emmond on bass. Recorded at Tribe Studios. Mixed by Rick Carson at Make Believe Studios. Eddie Moore joined WMM on Sept. 23, 2020 and Nov. 23, 2022. More info at http://www.eddiemooremusic.com]

(#20.) The Cure – “A Fragile Thing (Radio Edit)”
from: Songs of A Lost World / Fiction/Capitol Records / October 31, 2024
[THE CURE’s long-awaited, critically acclaimed new album, SONGS OF A LOST WORLD, their first new release in 16 years, is out now via Fiction/Capitol Records. // The band will be performed their only scheduled show of the year on Nov. 1, at Troxy in London, which was live streamed on The Cure’s YouTube page Show Of A Lost World The Cure Live At Troxy. // BBC2 aired a special evening of Cure programming to celebrate the release of SONGS OF A LOST WORLD. // Initially formed in 1978, The Cure has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, headlined the Glastonbury festival four times and been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. They are considered to be one of the most influential bands to ever come out of the UK. // SONGS OF A LOST WORLD was written and arranged by Robert Smith, produced and mixed by Robert Smith & Paul Corkett and performed by The Cure – Robert Smith: Voice / guitar / 6string bass / keyboard, Simon Gallup: Bass, Jason Cooper: Drums / percussion, Roger O’Donnell: Keyboard, Reeves Gabrels: Guitar. The album was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales. // Robert Smith created the sleeve concept, and Andy Vella, a long-time Cure collaborator, handled the album’s art and design. The cover art features ‘Bagatelle’, a 1975 sculpture by Janez Pirnat. // THE CURE – SONGS OF A LOST WORLD https://thecure.lnk.to/SongsOfALostWorld More info at: http://www.thecure.com]

(#19.) Mdou Moctar – “Funeral for Justice”
from: Funeral for Justice / Matador / May 3, 2024
[‘Funeral For Justice’ is the new album by Mdou Moctar. Recorded at the close of two years spent touring the globe following the release of 2021 breakout ‘Afrique Victime,’ it captures the Nigerien quartet in ferocious form. The music is louder, faster, and more wild. The guitar solos are feedback-scorched and the lyrics are passionately political. Nothing is held back or toned down. // Mdou Moctar immediately stands out as one of the most innovative artists in contemporary Saharan music. His unconventional interpretations of Tuareg guitar and have pushed him to the forefront of a crowded scene. Mdou shreds with a relentless and frenetic energy that puts his contemporaries to shame. More info at: http://www.mdoumoctar.com]

(#18.) Leyla McCalla – “Scaled To Survive”
from: Sun Without The Heat / Anti – Records / April 12, 2024
[Leyla McCalla on vocals, cello, banjo, guitars; Shawn Myers on percussion, drums; Nahum Zdybel on guitars; Pete Olynciw on electric bass, piano; Maryam Qudus on synthesizers, organs, backing vocals; Louis Michot on fiddle on “Tower”. Recorded and Produced by Maryam Qudus at Dockside Studios, June 20-29, 2023. Assisted by Justin Tocket. Mixed by Maryam Qudus at Best House. Mastered by Heba Kadry, NYC. All songs written by Leyla McCalla (Makala Music (BMI)) except “Love We Had” music by Ali Mohammed Birra, arrangement and lyrics by Leyla McCalla (Makala Music (BMI)) // On May 6, 2022 Leyla McCalla released Breaking the Thermometer on Anti- Records. // Leyla Sarah McCalla was born October 3, 1985. She is a classical and folk musician. She has been a cellist with the Grammy-winning string band Carolina Chocolate Drops but left that group to focus on her solo career. Both of McCalla’s parents were born in Haiti. Her father Jocelyn McCalla was the Executive Director of the New York-based National Coalition for Haitian Rights from 1988 to 2006 and is credited as translator on Vari-Colored Songs. Her mother Régine Dupuy arrived in the United States at age 5, is the daughter of Ben Dupuy who ran Haiti Progrès, a New York based Haitian socialist newspaper. McCalla’s mother went on to found Dwa Fanm, an anti-domestic violence human rights organization. McCalla was born in New York City and raised in New Jersey. She lived in Accra, Ghana for two years as a teen. After a year at Smith College, she transferred to New York University to study cello performance and chamber music. She then moved to New Orleans where she played music on the streets. We first played Leyla McCalla in 2016 the same year we saw her live at Folk Alliance International and the same year she released her critically acclaimed album Vari-Colored Songs on Music Maker Recordings on February 4, 2014. The album is a tribute to Langston Hughes which includes adaptations of his poems, Haitian folk songs sung in Haitian Creole and original compositions. McCalla says the first song she wrote for the album was Heart of Gold because it provided “a window into Hughes’ thinking”.McCalla chose to dedicate this work to Hughes because she says “reading his work made me want to be an artist.” McCalla started working on the album 5 years prior to its release. Commentators have noted the influence of Louisiana musical traditions such as old Cajun fiddle melodies and trad-jazz banjo on the album. Members of the Carolina Chocolate Drops appear on the album. Along with her solo work Leyla McCalla was part of Songs of Our Native Daughters is the debut Americana/folk album by four North American singer-songwriters collaborating as Our Native Daughters. The group includes Rhiannon Giddens, Amythyst Kiah, Leyla McCalla, and Allison Russell. The album was released on the Smithsonian Folkways label in early 2019. Songs of Our Native Daughters addresses American historical issues that have influenced the identity of black women, including slavery, racism, and sexism. The album features 13 songs, 11 of them written by the group’s members. It also includes a cover of a 1970s Bob Marley classic and a song that draws its lyrics from two poems.]

(#17.) Hembree – “Wonderful Life”
from: Better Days / Hembree / August 9, 2024
[Hembree’s third studio album. Performed by: Hembree. Hembree is: Isaac Flynn, Eric Davis, Garrett Childers, Alex Ward & Austin Ward. Mixed by: Isaac Flynn. Mastered by: Ian Sefchick. Drums engineered by: Martin Cooke. Additional vocals by: Devynn Carter on tracks 1, 6, 9 and 10. Recorded at Kingsize Soundlabs (Los Angeles, CA), Peermusic (Burbank, CA) and Isaac’s house. Produced by: Isaac Flynn . // Hembree released their The 15-track album, IT’S A DREAM on February 4, 2022. It was part of WMM 120 Best Recordings of 2023. Hembree, is a KC born band was formed in November of 2015, with Isaac Flynn on guitar, & lead vocals, Garrett Childers on bass & vocals, Eric Davis on keys & synth, Alex Ward on guitar, and Austin Ward on drums. Hembree is signed to Thirty Tigers of Nashville, TN. The band was founded by original members Isaac Flynn, Garrett Childers, and Eric Davis. Brothers Alex and Austin Ward later joined in 2018. Hembree quickly garnered national attention after their single “Holy Water” was placed in an Apple commercial that aired during Super Bowl LII. The band’s music has been featured in a variety of other national placements, including Monday Night Football (NFL) and Bose. Hembree has notably supported Elvis Costello, Phoenix, Cold War Kids, Vance Joy, JR JR, and Joywave, among others. The band first toured Europe in Fall 2018. In 2018, Hembree signed with Thirty Tigers to release their first full-length album House on Fire, released 4/26/2019. In 2019, Hembree performed at Hangout Music Festival. They will also appear on the soundtrack of 13 Reasons Why: Season 3 with the song “Culture”. Hembree was named one of NPR’s Slingshot 2018 Artists to Watch. Rolling Stone named Hembree as one of the thirty best artists at SXSW 2018. “Had It All” debuted on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 on January 19, 2017. Lowe described the song as “absolutely fantastic.” “Holy Water” was featured in Apple’s HomePod “Distortion” TV spot, which ran during Super Bowl LII, the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, and the 2018 Winter Olympics. Hembree released the single, “Reach Out” on July 20, 2021 and “Operators (feat. Bodye)” on Sept. 21, 2021on Oread Records. IHembree played The Bottleneck, 737 New Hampshire St., Lawrence KC, on Saturday, October 12, at 8:00pm with and Flash Floods. nfo at: http://www.hembreemusic.com]

(#16.) Cheery – “Concept Of Love”
from: Bliss / Spirit House Records / March 20, 2024
[Cheery released three new singles last summer, from her new home in Liverpool, England, United Kingdom. “True Lover” on July 19, 2023 // “90210 Poster” on August 16, 2023 // “Bliss” on September 20, 2023. All three singles came with fabulous music videos . Cheery is the “Dream Pop” music project of musician and singer and songwriter Katlyn Cowpland formerly known as Katlyn Conroy, who was formerly based in Lawrence, Kansas. Katlyn met her husband on OkCupid and moved 4000 miles away to get married and relocate in Liverpool, England. When she was still based in Lawrence, Kansas, As Cheery, Katlyn released the single “Concept of Love” and b-side, “Vulture” on August 3, 2021, written and performed by Katlyn Conroy, and engineered and mixed by Eric Davis. Katlyn Conroy released SAPPHIRES funder her previous moniker and band, La Guerre through The Record Machine on January 20, 2015. It was #10 on WMM’s 115 Best Recordings of 2015. Katlyn Conroy was also part of the critically acclaimed band, Cowboy Indian Bear. She was the recipient of the 2013 Pitch Music Award for Best Singer-Songwriter. With over 20 years of live performance experiences she has performed alongside Daniel Johnston, Florence and The Machine, Grizzly Bear, Sara Barielles, Why? and more. Katlyn Conroy joined us on WMM on March 4, 2015 and August 26, 2015. More info at: http://www.cheery.bandcamp.com or https://linktr.ee/HearCheery ]

11:00 – Station ID

(#15.) Nala Sinephro – “Continuum 5”
from: Endlessness / Warp Records / September 6, 2024
[Nala Sinephro (born 1996) is a Caribbean-Belgian experimental jazz musician, currently based in London. She is best known for her ambient jazz compositions, where she predominantly plays the pedal harp, modular synthesiser, keyboards and piano. // In 2021, she released her debut studio album, Space 1.8, on Warp Records to widespread critical acclaim. The album placed highly on several music publications’ end-of-year lists. // Nala Sinephro spent her childhood in Belgium, growing up on the outskirts of Brussels, near a forest. Her Belgian mother was a classical piano teacher and her Martiniquan/Guadeloupean father was a jazz saxophonist. // During her teenage years, Sinephro developed a tumor in her jaw. The tumor’s successful removal influenced a period of hedonistic living, with Sinephro frequenting Brussels-based clubs to seek out hardcore dance music. // Initially interested in becoming a biochemist, Sinephro eventually transferred to an arts-based high school which featured a jazz department. There, she discovered the harp, which she quickly connected with. Sinephro attended Berklee College of Music in Boston for one year, dropping out after finding her job as a sound engineer provided a more practical education. She moved to London and enrolled in a second jazz college, though she quickly dropped out as a result of the racial disparity there. // In London, Sinephro became a contemporary of saxophonists Shabaka Hutchings and Nubya Garcia, and the jazz improvisation collective Steam Down, where she developed a sense of individuality in her style. Sinephro began performing with Steam Down regularly, working alongside the London Contemporary Orchestra’s artistic director Robert Ames. // Sinephro began writing the songs that would appear on Space 1.8 in 2018 and 2019. Writing on piano, she would record her pedal harp and modular synthesiser parts at her home before entering Pink Bird recording studio to record with the album’s collaborators, with included saxophonists Nubya Garcia and James Mollison, drummer Jake Long, and bassists Twm Dylan and Wonky logic. Sinephro emphasized minimalism and intentionality when composing the album. // Sinephro currently lives in Tottenham, North London. She has family based in the Caribbean island Martinique. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sinephro spent months living on Martinique, where she developed an interest in field recordings.

18.(#14.) Adrianne Lenker – “Sadness As A Gift (Radio Edit)”
from: Bright Future / 4AD / March 22, 2024
[Adrianne Lenker writes: ““bright future” was made with everything in my heart, and it will be yours march 22nd. for today, i’m sharing the second song from it called ”sadness as a gift”. “sadness as a gift” was co-produced by Philip Weinrobe, with contributions from Mat Davidson, Nick Hakim, and Josefin Runsteen. // Mat, Nick and Josefin, y’all brought this whole thing to life in a way i never could’ve even imagined being possible. my heart broke open during those weeks together. your love makes it what it is and i am endlessly grateful for the presence you gave to our time together and to this music. Phil you inspire me endlessly, you ignite my curiosity and remind me to enjoy being alive. i learn so much from working and existing with you, thank you for going one thousand percent in with me, all the way through the shadows and the light. // mastered with care by the incredible Josh Bonati. // Adrianne Elizabeth Lenker was born July 9, 1991. She is an American musician. She is the lead vocalist, guitarist and principal songwriter of the band Big Thief. // Lenker was born in Indianapolis and was raised in a Christian cult until the age of four, but primarily grew up in Minnesota. Her parents rented homes in Coon Rapids, Nisswa, and Bloomington, Minnesota, before settling down in Plymouth, Minnesota, where she lived for 10 years, excluding a brief time spent in Santa Cruz, California. She spent a summer traveling throughout the midwest and living out of a Ford cargo van. // Lenker wrote her first song at the age of eight, and recorded her first album at age 13. Her other interests included studying martial arts, and she was the state karate champion three years in a row.[citation needed] She moved to Santa Cruz for a year and a half, living with a family friend and working at a local McDonalds. She dropped out of Santa Cruz High School halfway into her sophomore year, moved back to Plymouth, and got her GED at the age of 16. She attended the Berklee College of Music on a scholarship provided by Susan Tedeschi of the Tedeschi Trucks Band. // On February 28, 2006, when Lenker was 14, she released her first solo album, Stages of the Sun. On January 9, 2014, Lenker released her second solo album, Hours Were the Birds. // On May 1, 2014, Lenker, together with future bandmate Buck Meek, released the LP records a-sides and b-sides. In 2015, Lenker and Meek, alongside Max Oleartchik and James Krivchenia, formed the band Big Thief, whose first album was released in 2016. // Lenker released her third solo album, Abysskiss, on October 5, 2018. // On October 23, 2020, Lenker released her two most recent albums, Songs and Instrumentals. // Lenker met the future Big Thief co-founder Buck Meek at a concert when she lived in Boston, and then she encountered him again in a bodega the day she moved to New York. The pair began to play together, and married when Lenker was 24. They divorced in 2018, remaining in Big Thief as “deep friends”. In 2019, Lenker was in a relationship with the artist Indigo Sparke, and the two separated sometime in 2020. // While Lenker is comfortable with the label “queer”, she has expressed a desire not to define her sexual orientation beyond that. Her lyrics often contain discussions of gender and the gender binary. In an interview with The Brag, Lenker said of those lyrics, “I feel within myself a constant dialogue between my masculinity, my femininity and the part of me that is neither of those things. I’m just trying to talk about it because I feel like I’m something that is very ambiguous.”]

(#13.) Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark – “Soft Landing”
from: Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark / Lost River Sound / August 9, 2024
[Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark released Cindergarden (A Sides) on May 22, 2022. They released Cindergarden (B Sidesd) on June 21, 2023. Kirstie Lynn is a classically trained soprano with a passion for songwriting, always looking to marry poetry and melody. Though Kirstie’s voice has been compared to that of Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, her sound is uniquely her own. Kirstie Lynn is a folk singer-songwriter originally from the fingerlakes region of upstate, NY. She began her professional music studies at the age of 15, and has since received both a Bachelor’s degree from Shenandoah University and a Master’s degree from Carnegie Mellon University in voice and opera performance. Her vocal training lends her the freedom to paint her nature inspired lyrics with a wide range and a beautiful and effortless sound. Kirstie Lynn is one half of the duo Kirstie Lynn and Galen Clark. // Galen Clark introduces an alternative perspective and approach to music that contains multitudes. Migratory melodies, multi-instrumental fluency, and mysterious texture all outline the stylings of the newly transplanted Cuyahoga Valley songwriter, producer, and musician. // Born into an Air Force family, Clark grew up in many places with family anchors in Vermont and Colorado. At the age of 9 following many failed piano lessons, Clark’s grandparents gifted him a Harmony parlor guitar from a Shelburne flea market, starting a journey that would span almost 2 decades of stylistic development, a plethora of ephemeral bands, a degree in music production and recording technology, and a refined take on songwriting. .. Sharing songs spanning the stoic mountains of Idaho’s lost river range to the ancient hum of the Shenandoah Valley, Galen draws upon energy strewn between varied time and place, a broader quest for belonging, and rejuvenation beyond the front door. Clark’s previous records, Providence (2018) and The Well (2020) offer a contemplative portrait of moods in natural ambiguity, collective consciousness, and introspection. His most recent collaboration with Kansas City – based artist, Kirstie Lynn is a reckoning that is to be heard live and will transport you elsewhere if not in mind than in spirit.][Kirstie Lynn & Galen Clark joined us live on WMM on June 21. // Kirstie Lynn played IN THE ROUND with Calvin Arsenia, Julia Othmer, and Christena Graves at The Bauer, 115 West 18th Street, in KCMO’s West Crossroads, Oct. 17.]

(#12.) MeShell Ndegeocello – “LOVE”
from: No More Water: The Gospel Of James Baldwin / Blue Note – Verve / August 2, 2024
[“Love takes off the masks that we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within. I use the word “love” here not merely in the personal sense but as a state of being, or a state of grace – not in the infantile American sense of being made happy but in the tough and universal sense of quest and daring and growth.” ― James Baldwin, The Fire Next Time // 14th album from acclaimed GRAMMY-winning multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter Meshell Ndegeocello. A tribute album to African-American thinkers and writers, including namesake James Baldwin and Audre Lorde. The album was released on Baldwin’s Centennial: August 2, 2024. (from http://www.bluenote.com): The visionary work is at once a musical experience, a church service, a celebration, a testimonial, and a call to action. With No More Water, Ndegeocello embarks on a prophetic musical odyssey that transcends boundaries and genres, delving headfirst into race, sexuality, religion, and other recurring themes explored in Baldwin’s canon. Following 2023’s The Omnichord Real Book, her acclaimed Blue Note debut which won the inaugural GRAMMY Award for Best Alternative Jazz Album, the multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and producer renders an immersive and palpable document that is as sagacious, unabashed, and introspective as Baldwin was in life. // Co-produced by Ndegeocello and guitarist Chris Bruce, No More Water features some of the bassist’s frequent collaborators including Bruce, vocalist Justin Hicks, saxophonist (and Omnichord producer) Josh Johnson, keyboardist Jebin Bruni, and drummer Abe Rounds. Also appearing on various songs are vocalist Kenita-Miller Hicks, keyboardists Jake Sherman and Julius Rodriguez, and Executive Director of the NYCPS Arts Office and trumpeter Paul Thompson. The album also showcases powerful spoken word by venerated poet Staceyann Chin and Pulitzer Prize-winning author and critic Hilton Als. // Nearly a decade in the making, the album’s origins began in 2016 during a performance at The Harlem Stage Gatehouse as part of their annual showcase honoring Baldwin. Ndegeocello had delved into Baldwin’s work the year before, including the seminal nonfiction work The Fire Next Time, which she considers “life-changing” and carries with her as a “spiritual text.” Ndegeocello says, “It was just a revelation to me, and it softened my heart in so many ways.” // “Inspired by Baldwin’s most well-known essay, Ndegeocello’s piece—often staged as a church service—employs music, sermon, text, images, and movement, all of which enter into conversation with Baldwin’s monumental and delicate essay about how black bodies were perceived not only by white Americans but by blacks themselves,” writes Als in the album’s liner notes. “The music you hear in No More Water, is Jimmy talking to Meshell and his words meeting the language of her sounds and then coming out again through a multitude of voices, a multitude of sounds and thoughts that bring Jimmy back and give him—finally—his whole and true self, that which he offered up, time and again, if only we knew then how to listen.” // Thematically, the album moves like a procession in a Black church—baptism, testimony, worship/praise, and ultimately, resurrection. For the album’s opening track and lead single, “Travel,” we are brought inside the mind of a man with suicidal thoughts, a recurring motif in much of Baldwin’s oeuvre. Setting a dystopian mood, Rodriguez’s organ and Chin’s echoing incantations help usher in Justin Hicks’ ominous vocals: “I’ll stay away with all the work to be done/I’ll be bleeding while you bake in the sun.” // “Raise The Roof” features Chin sans accompaniment as the intensity of her words captures the stark and harrowing reality of the pervasive racism we cannot seem to escape: “It must be in the fucking water being force-fed to the police, the prosecutor and the politicians who care nothing for Black bodies falling like leaves in late August…in Ferguson…in Cleveland…in Staten Island, only minutes away from where my own child sits, watching The Muppets take over Manhattan.” // No More Water marks a significant moment of self-discovery for Ndegeocello. She adds that Baldwin entered her life at precisely the right time. “It came when I was ready to look in the mirror. I’ve had to play Plantation Lullabies at a few shows. Looking back, I had an interesting perspective, but the dialogue was limited. It was more like a cathartic experience for a young person of color, whereas now I’m going, ‘How can I get us all to love each other? How can I get us all to see this for what it is?’”// Last year Meshell Ndegeocello released her Blue Note Records debut with The Omnichord Real Book, on June 16, 2023. // At The 2024 Grammy Awards, Meshell Ndegeocello won the first-ever GRAMMY for Best Alternative Jazz Album for The Omnichord Real Book. In her acceptance speech, the two-time GRAMMY winner and 12-time nominee thanked Don Was, the president of Blue Note Records, as well as other colleagues and loved ones — including her two sons. “I hope I haven’t forgotten anybody,” Ndegeocello graciously said at the end, and invoked an elder of the music: “Oliver Lake, this is for you.” // It was a visionary, expansive, and deeply jazz-influenced album that marks the start of a new chapter in her career. Following her 2018 album Ventriloquism, Meshell returns with an album of new original material that taps into a broad spectrum of her musical roots. The Omnichord Real Book was produced by Josh Johnson and features a wide range of guest artists including Jason Moran, Ambrose Akinmusire, Joel Ross, Jeff Parker, Brandee Younger, Julius Rodriguez, Mark Guiliana, Cory Henry, Joan As Police Woman, Thandiswa, and others. // Meshell Ndegeocello was born Michelle Lynn Johnson on August 29, 1968 in West Berlin, Germany, to US Army Sergeant Major and saxophonist father Jacques Johnson and health care worker mother Helen. She was raised in Washington, D.C. where she attended Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Oxon Hill High School. She is a singer-songwriter, rapper, and bassist. She has gone by the name Meshell Suhaila Bashir-Shakur which is used as a writing credit on some of her later work. Her music incorporates a wide variety of influences, including funk, soul, jazz, hip hop, reggae and rock. She has received significant critical acclaim throughout her career, being nominated for eleven Grammy Awards, and winning one. She also has been credited for helping to “spark the neo-soul movement”. // Ndegeocello adopted her surname, which she says means “free like a bird” in Swahili. Early pressings of Plantation Lullabies were affixed with stickers to help pronounce her name. The spelling has changed in the hands of record labels a few times during her career; the correct spelling of her stage name as of 2001 is Meshell Ndegeocello.]

21.(#11.) The Swallowtails – “Cocoon”
from: LUCKY PENNY EP / The Swallowtails / February 20, 2024
[The independent acoustic band, experimenting in the rock/pop genres while performing on what are traditionally folk/classical instruments, enter a new era having produced the entirety of this project themselves, with the songwriting matter touching on life’s big changes, challenges, and the realizations that time will heal. // “Since becoming a duo, it was time for us to reinvent our sound again. The songwriting on this EP is split between Rachel and myself, and this is Rachel’s debut release as a writer and singer. We spent all of January 2024 finishing the arrangements, recording and mixing the mini-record. It was a much needed release of energy for both of us, and we are definitely looking forward to adding these songs into our live sets and performing new material.”– Miki P, songwriter, singer and musician in The Swallowtails. // Est. in 2018, The Swallowtails are a Kansas City based musical duo comprised of musicians Miki P on guitar/vocals and Rachel Lovelace on bassoon/vocals. Their vision is to write honest, heartfelt songs that feel like you’re coming home to an old friend. As recording and performance artists, they have been showcased throughout Kansas City, performing at the Folly Theatre, Boulevardia Music Festival, The Kansas City Public Library as part of the 2023 Art in the Loop: Celebrate project, and most recently at Green Guitar Folk House opening for The Wildwoods. Their songwriting was awarded Best Song by a KC Band in 2023 by the Pitch Magazine for their tune “Take it Slow.” // Live video’s will be released on The Swallowtails YouTube page in support of the EP, the live session was filmed at West Bottoms Whiskey Co. // Swallowtails will be featuring the new EP at the Folk Alliance International Conference February 21st-25th. Both Miki & Rachel have earned scholarships to attend the conference. // Swallowtails embark on their 4th year entering NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest featuring a song off the EP, called “I’m on Fire” posted to NPR’s official contest site. // The Swallowtails have recently been approved as part of KCAIC Touring Artists Roster, through the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission. // On May 22, 2023 The Swallowtails released their 7-track EP THE WORLD STILL SPINS from Rachel Lovelace on bassoon, Adee Dancy on cello & vocals, and Miki P on guitar & lead vocals. Miki P is a self-taught musician/multi-instrumentalist & songwriter driving the Swallowtails into a creative collaboration like any other. Miki P was born in Kansas City, KS. Miki P started playing guitar in middle school. She taught herself to play the drums, while listening to Mitch Mitchell, Keith Moon and Ringo Starr. Miki P performed “She Loves You” at her 7th grade talent show. In 9th grade she joined a teen-band called American Slim as drummer & vocalist, and she wrote songs for their full-length album Irreplaceable released in 2017, followed by a single “Queen of Hearts” released April 11, 2018. Miki P has played Middle of the Map Fest, Crossroads Music Fest, Kauffman Stadium, Arrowhead Stadium, and The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art before officially ending in 2018. As a teen she played drums for various groups including American Slim. At 21, Miki P began work on her debut solo-record, DOME OF SWALLOWS, that was released August 2, 2018. She then formed Miki P and the Swallowtails who released their first EP, Swallowtail in 2019, In 2021 Miki P released the 6-song EP, DON’T LOSE HOPE, created in covid isolation, in Miki P’s home space. Sitting & working from Miki’s computer, she composed and recorded 80% of the EP, working through the music like a journal entry, creating each song from her internal hurricane of emotions. All songs written, recorded, played, & mixed by Miki P. Recorded & Mixed with Emma Klien & Jake Hilger. Mastered by Joel Nanos. Miki P released her single “Your Love” on June 24, 2022. Miki P’s released the single “Peter Parker!” on March 18, 2022. // The Swallowtails played the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, August 24, on the Stockyards Brewing Stage with: Howard Mahan & Friends, The Canterberries, Danielle Ate The Sandwich, Beth Watts Nelson, Rural Grit All Stars, and Les Ismore & The Goats. // More info at: http://www.mikipmusic.com]

11:18 – THE TOP TEN!

(#10.) Kat King – “Baby Talk”
from: Domestic Bliss EP / Manor Records / April 5, 2024
[ Kat King, on lead vocals, Derek Melies on guitar, John Kaul McCain on bass, Daniel Cole on drums, & Kara LePage on keyboards. On October 6, 2023 Kat King released the single. “Bight-Eyed.” // On June 16, 2024 Kat King released the single “Baby Talk.” // On Jan. 13, 2023 Kat King released “Gone South” Produced by Joel Martin. Centering on themes of self-care, steadfast friendship, and revitalizing optimism. On September 20, 2022 Kat King released the single “With Nothing In My Way.” This followed their single “New Sun” released July 29, 2022. “New Sun” was a follow up to the June 9, 2021, SAY WHAT YOU MEAN 5-track EP, recorded with her band. Co-produced & mixed / mastered by Joel Martin. Lawrence KS based singer songwriter Kat King released her last single “Song of Spain” in 2019 and her single “2017” in, 2018. She released her 5-song EP “Falling Up” on Dec. 1, 2017. Kat has made music since the 2nd grade. She made a 13-song album and 3 EP’s, the 1st one released at 14.]

(#9.) Clarke Wyatt – “Green Eyes”
from: CLARKES IN SPACE / Clarke Wyatt / March 19, 2024
[CLARKESINSPACE is an ongoing project by Clarke Wyatt: multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer, recording and video engineer. Clarke is a lifelong creator of original music. He has written string quartets, original compositions and songs, studio project parts and production, and video creations. And that’s just the start. His latest project in the works is called “Guitar Party”, where he plays drum kit with electric guitarists (sometimes switching places if the guitarist is also a drummer). It’s the beginning of a video series, first created for youtube, with options for multiple media.

(#8.) Supermoto – “Motown”
from: Supermoto / Manor Records / Sept. 30, 2024
[Hailing from Kansas City, this 5-piece group started meeting in the pre covid winter of 2020. April of 2021 they released their first two songs “Moonlight” and “Polarized” which led to a run of energetic and successful live performances – all the while building up many catchy originals drawing on their inspirations of jazz, funk, r&b, city pop and disco. Supermoto played HOWDY at 6523 Stadium Drive, KCMO on October 10, at for the Abandoncy album release of Assailable/Agonoism, with God’s Computer and Young Mvchetes.]

11:28 – Underwriting

(#7.) Amble Haunt – “Over-Under”
from: Feather Led / Amble Haunt / August 9, 2024
[Feather Led is the first full length studio album from midwest rock band Amble Haunt. // Produced under the guidance of producer/songwriter Nathan Hussey (All Get Out / ATX Heat) – Feather Led is a distinct milestone that embodies Amble Haunt’s unwavering love for the craft of writing and recording music. // The album represents a multi-year collaborative effort between vocalist Bryce Veazey and drummer Brandon Woodall. As the core members of Amble Haunt, Veazey and Woodall have been creating music together for over 20 years through various projects and bands. // Feather Led‘s lyrical content is diverse as it explores the corners of life and self-fulfillment. This album contains much more than love songs or aimless emotions, it is a journal of perseverance. A support to those who know there is more to life than death and taxes. // Amble Haunt released the 5-track debut EP EMPTY LOT on April 1, 2021. it was part of WMM’s Best Recordings of 2022. This Kansas City, Missouri based 4-piece band formed by Bryce Veazey, Brandon Woodall, Ara Woodall, and Jake Briscoe. The band writes: “Music has a way of haunting…Amble Haunt is the way those haunts are sung out into life.” A song about knowing your predispositions in life, and deciding to move forward regardless of the weight you carry. The band surfeited that “Jump Cross the Pool” is a song about knowing your predispositions in life, and deciding to move forward regardless of the weight you carry. More info at: http://www.amblehaunt.bandcamp.com.]

(#6) The Roseline – “Aloneness”
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.]

(#5.) Miss Boating – “Jewel In The Trash”
from: Jewel In The Trash / High Dive Records / June 29, 2024
[Miss Boating recently signed with High Dive Records to release their debut album, JEWEL IN THE TRASH. Miss Boating is a KC based, five-piece with multi-instrumentalist & lead singer Charlie Coleborne, drummer Bill Belzer, Aaron Jones on trombone, Tom Gillespie on Saxophone, and Bryan McGuire on bass. (Phil Dickey played bass on the album.) Charlie and Bill met in the late 1980s. In the beginning they were called The Sympathetic Fringe, and then The Sleazebeats. In recent years Charlie & Bill added Aaron, Tim and Bryan. Described by one local radio host as “the perfect house band for a John Waters After Party.” One of their songs is about a friend’s mom’s dynamic relationship with prescription medication. Another is a tribute to the late Evan Jolly, their former bassist. All of the songs are written by Charlie Colborne through his blue/gay eyes. These songs have a fine patina of ditch weed, filthy humor, cigarette smoke, gay drama, Bee Gee’s inflected new wave, queer music hall schmaltz, odd stiff naive sambas, and box wine. More info at: http://www.highdivekc.com // From the ashes of their former band The Sleazebeats, Charles Colborne and Bill Belzer faced a difficult 2019 when combined with the death of Charlie’s own beloved mother, their friend and bassist Evan Vhargon died. The band wrote that they “were lost when Evan passed.” Through the tough times Bill and Charlie kept playing and wrote that they “were blown away when Phil Dickey wanted to jam with us… the jamming turned into something more and we were going again. We couldn’t be more thankful and humbled.” Phil is part of the bands Dragon Inn 3, and Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin. // On January 1, 2020 Miss Boating released The Vhargon Sidestep with: Charlie Colborne on keyboards, guitar, vocals; Bill Belzer: drums, vocals; Phil Dickey on bass; Aaron Jones on trombone; Tim Gillespie on saxophone. Ross Brown served as engineering, did all of the mixing for The Vhargon Sidestep and Mike Nolte handled all of the mastering. Miss Boating played an Album Release Show, Saturday, June 29 at 6:00pm at The Ship, 1221 Union Avenue, KCMO, with Fullbloods.]

(#4.) BLACKSTARKIDS – “SOULMATEZ”
from: Saturn Dayz / Dirty Hit Records / September 30, 2022
[Gen-Z upstarts BLACKSTARKIDS have released their sixth studio album Saturn Dayz on September 20, 2024 through Dirty Hit Records and immediately followed with an 8-track seventh studio album HEAVEN ON URF, on October 25, 2024 on Dirty Hit Records. Our friend and music writer Bill Brownlee talked with us about how the band created a double album, but the record company decided to release as two separate albums. The music from both albums relate to each other. Before the release of Saturn Dayz the band released their single and video “SOULMATEZ!” on August 30, 2024. “SOULMATEZ!,” is a magnetic, blissed-out bop that brings together pop, indie, and alt-rap, reminiscent of Dev Hynes-era Solange mixed with De La Soul. // The follow up to BLACKSTARKIDS’ acclaimed 2022 album CYBERKISS* which featured standout singles “CYBERKISS 2 U* ft. beabadoobee” and “SEX APPEAL,” SATURN DAYZ is an otherworldly, genre-crossing testament to their unrelenting artistry and is their most impressive work to date. PRESS HERE to pre-save SATURN DAYZ. // Putting out music at a prolific rate and making waves for their formidable songwriting and producing talents, as well as their endless energy and truly limitless sound, BLACKSTARKIDS have received critical acclaim from New York Times, MTV, UPROXX, Billboard, Alternative Press, SPIN, Ones To Watch, Rolling Stone France, The Line Of Best Fit, DIY, Coup De Main, and more. Blending garage rock with synth-punk and hip-hop to usher in a new surge of indie, such as on their beloved album Puppies Forever which features anthemic singles “ALL COPS ARE BASTARDS,” “JUNO,” and “FIGHT CLUB,” BLACKSTARKIDS are well on their way to indie stardom and have previously toured with the likes of The 1975, COIN, Glass Animals, beabadoobee, Christian Leave, GroupLove. // Incorporating each member’s wide-ranging influences into their blissful DIY sound, such as Toro Y Moi, NERD*, Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer, Outkast, Odd Future, and A Tribe Called Quest, BLACKSTARKIDS first captivated the internet with their “black coming of age trilogy” of projects Let’s Play Sports, Surf, and Whatever, Man that feature critically acclaimed singles including “BRITNEY BITCH” and “FRANKIE MUNIZ.” // Blackstarkids are phenomenon who came out of Kansas City in 2020 became the soundtrack for the summer. Blackstarkids are a pop/R&B/hip-hop trio based in Kansas City, Missouri. Members include: TheBabeGabe, Deiondre, and TyFaizon (of the Drop Dead XX collective). The members have known each other since high school in Raytown, Missouri. Members met at Raytown South High School and formed the band in 2019. The group released its first album, Let’s Play Sports, on August 1, 2019. Blackstarkids then released their second album SURF through their own label Bedroom Records on February 28, 2020. Blackstarkids caught the attention of The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy and were then signed to The 1975’s management company and UK-based label Dirty Hit Records. They were featured in Clash Magazine. Blackstarkids then released, Surf Basement Demos on Dirty Hit Records on March 5, 2020. On October 29, 2020, Blackstarkids released Whatever, Man on Dirty Hit Records, their third album release of 2020. Gabe, of Blackstarkids recently described the KC Music community to an interviewer, “The music scene here is really nice. There are a lot of bands who are super talented and do all types of genres. The jazz music here is really great as well. Kansas City is honestly a hidden gem when it comes to music. I feel like you can meet an artist anywhere and anyplace in this city.” Deiondre added, “The music scene here is getting cool now, there’s a lot of jazz musicians that go to school for music here too but you can find people from different scenes all over if around the city.” Ty wrote, “The Kansas City scene is great, the community here is so supportive and genuine. This is a really prideful city here and I think they’re finally getting the musicians they deserve.” There was a final concert scheduled at the end of the year that was cancelled. Were not sure if BLACKSTARKIDS will continue in their current form as a band.]

(#3.) 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.]

(#2.) Waxahatchee – “Bored”
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 played the Uptown Theatre on April 18, 2024]

(#1.) 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, Krystle Warren & The Faculty, released the single, “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]

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 Wednesday MidDay Medley on Jan 1, 2024, we ring in the New Year w/ New Music from: Fullbloods, the eradicats, The Fur and the Fang, Day Shepherd, elska, The Slay Belles, Krystle Warren & The Faculty, David Luther, Clarke Wyatt, Piney Gir, Kim Deal, Horsegirl, The The, Helado Negro, Sylvester, Laura Marling, and we’ll also play Betse & Clarke, and Minnie Riperton, AND at 10:30 we’ll talk with electronic/ambient music recording artist elska about her 11-track album Dancing Alone released through Time Released Sound on July 5, 2024. AND at 11:00 we’ll talk LIVE with Krystle Warren the artist behind our #1 in WMM’s Best Recording of 2024, Krystle Warren & The Faculty and the album Extended Play.

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.

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

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

Wednesday MidDay Medley in on the web:
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Show #1075

WMM Playlist from November 13, 2024

Posted on November 14, 2024 by Mark Manning

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 13, 2024

Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek of The Pitch + Damron Russel Armstrong of The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City

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

Necrot – “Cut The Cord (Radio Edit)” (Nick’s #10)
from: Lifeless Birth / Tankcrimes / April 12, 2024
[Debut single from new album. Luca Indrio on bass & vocals, Chad Gailey on drums; Sonny Reinhardt on guitar. Recorded by Greg Wilkinson at Earhammer Studio in Oakland, California. Mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege September-October 2023. Art by Marald Van Haasteren. Necrot logo by David Mikkelsen. Layout by Mark Reátegui © Tankcrimes / Necrot 2024; ℗ Necrot 2024. In February Nrcrot went out on the road for the Brainsqueeze Tour with Municipal Waste, Ghoul and Dead Heat.]

10:06 – Intro / Interview with Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek

Thanks for tuning into WMM on 90.1 FM KKFI.  I’m Mark Manning.

We welcome Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek of The Pitch. The Annual Pitch “Best Of” Issue recently hit the streets last week on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. We’ll talk with Brock & Nick about some of the “Headlines” of 2024. And Nick shares his 10 Favorite Musical Releases of 2024 from: Ghost Funk Orchestra, Royal Otis, Confidence Man, The Linda Lindas., Kaitlin Butts, GEL, Odie Leigh, Katheryn Hahn and the cast of Agatha All Along and Vic-Man / VCMN with Joel leoJ. We started the show with, Necrot.

Brock Wilbur is the editor-in-chief of The Pitch in Kansas City and the author of several books on video games and apocalyptic cinema. He lives with his wife, political journalist Vivian Kane, their three cats. Brock Wilbur’s most recent book, “Postal” was published through Boss Fight Books and is available wherever books are sold. Brock also has experience doing stand-up comedy, and working as a researcher.

Brock Wilbur, thanks for being with us on again on WMM.

Nick Spacek is the music editor of the Pitch. Additionally, he’s the co-host of horror podcast, The Carnage Report. Nick lives in Lawrence with his wife, two cats, and a movie and record collection big enough to constitute an actual problem. Nick has been covering music in the KC / Lawrence area, for two decades. Nick Spacek has worked in print and radio media. Nick covers soundtracks and film scores for Starburst Magazine, and is a freelance writer for Sunflower Publishing. Nick served as Station Manager and Program Director for KJHK 90.7 in Lawrence, and for 20 years worked as a baker at Great Harvest Bread Company in Lawrence. Nick Studied at The University of Kansas.

Nick Spacek, thanks for being with us on again on WMM.

The Pitch is celebrating 44 years as Kansas City publication.

The Pitch started in 1980 as The Penny Pitch as part of Penny Lane Records, The original editor was Dwight Frizzell and the original owner was Hal Brody. The Pitch has survived the difficult print media landscape, multiple owners, multiple generations of some of Kansas City’s very best writers and journalists, and remains an essential publication, continuing to break important stories about working conditions in area restaurants and theatres, that some of our older news papers have bungled. The Pitch continues to be the very first to break news that has international reverberations.

The “Best Of” issue has been part of The Pitch for as long as I can remember, celebrating all things Kansas City.

Brock Wilbur picked up a Pitch “Best of” issue during a visit to KC and it was a big part of his wife and his decision to move to Kansas City from Los Angeles.

The Pitch “Best of” Issue is divided between The “Our Picks” section, selected by The Pitch writers, and the “Your Picks” section, where people of KC cast 517,861 votes across 488 categories and 2,900 nominees, selecting their favorite people, restaurants, creators, businesses, and places. The “Your Picks” section of the issue is fully hands-off from our internal team, and no weight was placed on any of the scales. The winners and runners-up in these categories were 1000% picked by the city after rounds of nomination and voting. http://www.thepitchkc.com

10:16

Ghost Funk Orchestra – “To The Moon!” (Nick’s #9)
from: A Trip To The Moon / Colemine Records / February 23, 2024
[Coming off the heels of 2022’s A New Kind of Love, A Trip To The Moon sees GFO diving even deeper in the worlds of film music, exotica, and psychedelic surf rock. The aim is to create a layered and collaged listening experience with more elements than you could possibly pick out in a single listen. The guitars are fuzzy and flooded with spring reverb, and the horns are arranged in a studio big band fashion. It’s full of big compositions with garage rock attitude. Influences range everywhere from Eddie Palmieri and Esquivel to The Lively Ones, Dusty Springfield, and War. The tracks are tied together by real recorded transmissions from the Apollo moon missions. The concept for the album is a story about a woman stranded on earth by her cosmonaut partner, left to ponder his whereabouts and whether or not he’ll make it back from the cosmos alive. // Ghost Funk Orchestra is the brainchild of composer/multi-instrumentalist Seth Applebaum. What started as a one-man recording project has now evolved into a powerhouse live band. It’s a sonic kaleidoscope that defies genre specification, but draws heavy influence from the worlds of soul, psych rock, salsa, and beyond. Their unique blend of genres has attracted praise from the likes of NPR, Bandcamp, KUTX, Brooklyn Vegan, Earmilk, and more. Over the years they’ve had the honor of sharing the stage with the likes of Os Mutantes, Grace Potter, Marco Benevento, La Luz, Monophonics, The Nude Party, and The Jack Moves, as well as playing such legendary festivals as Montreal Jazz, Treefort, Telluride Jazz, Otis Mountain Get Down, and BRIC’s NYC Winter Jazz. Local NY blog Post-Trash described their sound as a ‘psych odyssey of traditional sounds delivered in a non-traditional fashion.’ Bandcamp’s Editorial Director J. Edward Keyes praised the band’s ability to ‘leave no funk-adjacent genre unexplored.’ Experimentation is the key, and unpredictability is what has been attracting folks from all corners of the globe to see what GFO pulls off next]

Royel Otis – “Murder on the Dance Floor (triple j Like A Version)” (Nick’s #8)
from: Murder on the Dancefloor (triple j Like A Version) – Single / Austrailian Broadcasting Corporation / January 29. 2024
[Royel Otis are an Australian guitar-pop duo from Sydney. The band was formed in 2019 by Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic. They released three EPs, including Sofa Kings, before their debut studio album, Pratts & Pain, was released in February 2024. // Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic had known of each other around the Byron Bay area before Pavlovic sent Maddell some demos in 2019, with Maddell claiming this was “the collaboration he’d been chasing his whole life”. The band’s name is a combination of the first names of Maddell and Pavlovic, respectively. // In October 2021, the duo released their debut EP Campus. This was followed in August 2022, with Bar n Grill. Their third EP Sofa Kings, released in March 2023, peaked at number 43 on the ARIA Charts following its physical release in July 2023. Their song “Going Kokomo” was included in the EA Sports FC 24 soundtrack. // In October 2023, the group announced the release of their debut studio album Pratts & Pain, which was released on 16 February 2024. In January 2024, the duo received attention for their cover of Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s song “Murder on the Dancefloor” on the Australian radio station Triple J, which reached the ARIA Charts in February. Their cover of The Cranberries’ “Linger” reached the Billboard Hot 100 in August 2024.]

10:23 – Underwriting

10:25 – More Interview with Brock Wilbur and Nick Spacek

Today, we welcome Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek of The Pitch. The Annual Pitch “Best Of” Issue hits the streets this Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. We’re talking with Brock & Nick about some of the “Headlines” of 2024. And, Nick is sharing his 10 Favorite Musical Releases of 2024.

Brock Wilbur is the editor-in-chief of The Pitch in Kansas City. Nick Spacek is the music editor of the Pitch.

The Pitch “Best Of” issue is out. http://www.thepitchkc.com

Top Stories of 2024 from The Pitch “Best of” issue – Our Picks

Presidential Election 2024 – Popular vote:
Trump received 74,223,975 votes in his loss to Biden in 2020 (Biden) 81,283,501
Trump received 75,457,118 votes in his win over Harris in 2024 (Harris) 72,314,666
Jill Stein 730,238

10:35

Confidence Man – “I Can’t Lose You” (Nick’s #7)
rom: 3AM (LA LA LA) / A Chaos – Polydor Records / October 18, 2024 [Confidence Man are an Australian indie electro pop band formed in 2016 in Brisbane, Queensland. They released their debut album Confident Music for Confident People in April 2018. The front-duo and their band members have been a part of many festivals across the United Kingdom, Europe and Australia, most notably Glastonbury Festival. The drummer, Clarence McGuffie (one of the band members behind the black veils) is not publicly known. Previous musicians taking the role of Clarence McGuffie were Sam Hales and Lachlan McGeehan, both ex-boyfriends of Janet Planet. // 2016–2022: Formation, Confident Music for Confident People and Tilt // The band was formed in 2016. The members had met on the Brisbane music scene, and had been in other bands including: The Belligerents, Moses Gunn Collective and The Jungle Giants, and use pseudonyms in Confidence Man; McGuffie and Goodchild reportedly took their stage names from tombstones. They started writing dance songs together, initially as a “kind of joke”, but eventually realised the material was worth pursuing. // Planet and Bones provide vocals and dancing while Goodchild and McGuffie, who appear as masked figures, play keyboards and drums. The band signed to UK label Heavenly Records and released their debut UK single, “Bubblegum”, in March 2017. // Confidence Man released their debut album, Confident Music for Confident People, on April 13, 2018. They toured Europe extensively in the middle of the same year, with festival slots and a sell-out at London’s Scala before returning to Australia for dates in September. // The band released a Christmas single, “Santa’s Coming Down the Chimney”, in December 2018. On November 17. 2019, Janet Planet and Sugar Bones were guests on Richard Kingsmill’s ‘2019’ programme on Triple J to premiere their new single “Does It Make You Feel Good?” During the interview, they revealed they have made celebrity friends with U2 and had been partying with them and Noel Gallagher while in Melbourne. They continued to explain their plans to feature The Edge playing tambourine on a future recording.// On August 21, 2020, Confidence Man released the non-album single, “First Class Bitch”.// On November 10, 2021, the band announce the forthcoming release of their second studio album, Tilt and released “Holiday” as its lead single. Tilt was released on 1 April 2022 and peaked at number 7 on the ARIA charts. In late 2022, the band toured Australia, the United Kingdom and Europe, which also included a performance at Glastonbury Festival which received critical acclaim. // In September 2022, the band released a remix EP, titled Re-Tilt. The EP featured collaborations with Tame Impala, CHAI, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs and more. // In April 2023, Confidence Man released “On & On (Again)” with Daniel Avery. The single continued the shift from electro-pop towards a club-focused sound which had begun with Tilt, and marked their debut at new label home at Polydor. In July, the band released a collaboration with Swedish producer DJ Seinfeld on dance-pop record “Now U Do”. Clarence McGuffie (or Sam Hales) is not credited as a songwriter on either single, making them the first releases that do not credit all four originating members. // In November 2023, after releasing several bootlegs and mashups through their SoundCloud page, Confidence Man released “Firebreak”, an instrumental house single that they had been performing at shows all throughout the prior year. The song was described as “[welcoming] Reggie and Clarence to the front while Janet and Sugar get a well earned rub down”. However, Reggie Goodchild (Lewis Stephenson) is the only one of the two who is credited on the track. // The band started running their “Active Scenes” party at Glastonbury 2023. // In February 2024, the band released a single in collaboration with DJ Boring, “Forever 2 (Crush Mix)”. In May, Confidence Man released ConMan Club Classics Vol 1., a compilation EP featuring the non-album singles and their remixes, including a new remix of “Boyfriend (Repeat)” by Cowboy Rhythmbox. // On June 5, 2024, the band announced their third album, 3AM (La La La), with the release of the single, “I Can’t Lose You”, along with a video of Planet and Bones singing the track in a helicopter naked over the London skyline. The album is inspired by the band’s move to London, and by British rave culture of the 1990s. // Members: Janet Planet (Grace Stephenson) – vocals; Sugar Bones (Aidan Moore) – vocals; Reggie Goodchild (Lewis Stephenson) – production; Clarence McGuffie (currently unknown, previously Lachlan McGeehan; and Sam Hales) – production.]

The Linda Lindas – “Yo Me Estreso (feat. Weird Al Yankovic)” (Nick’s #6)
from: No Obligation / Epitaph / October 11, 2023
[No Obligation is the second studio album by American rock band The Linda Lindas. The Linda Lindas is an American rock band from Los Angeles. The all-female group comprises Bela Salazar, Eloise Wong, and sisters Lucia and Mila de la Garza. // The band formed in 2018, and took their name from Linda Linda Linda, a Japanese film. After being noticed by director Amy Poehler, they recorded the soundtrack for her film Moxie, which was released in 2021. Later that year, they released the single “Racist, Sexist Boy”, which went viral. Epitaph Records signed them shortly afterwards. // In 2022, they released their debut album, Growing Up, and received mostly positive reviews. // Epitaph Records released the album on October 11, 2024. It was produced again by Carlos de la Garza, the father of band members Lucia and Mila de la Garza. Recording sessions for No Obligation took place at Henson Recording, Sunset Sound, and Music Friends Studios in Los Angeles in 2024. Six singles were released from the album: “Too Many Things”, “Resolution/Revolution”, “All in My Head”, “Yo Me Estreso”, and the title track “No Obligation”, and “Nothing Would Change”. // Following the release of their debut studio album, Growing Up (2022), “Too Many Things” was the Linda Lindas’ first release of 2023. The band subsequently opened for Paramore on the North American leg of the This Is Why Tour. // No Obligation was written between 2022 and 2024, whenever the Linda Lindas had time outside of school or touring. Writing sessions occurred on holiday breaks and long weekends. // Recording sessions for No Obligation took place at Henson Recording, Sunset Sound, and Music Friends Studios in Los Angeles in 2024. // The track “All in My Head” was written from the perspective of a character from the 2018 novel My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh. Guitarist Lucia de la Garza called it a “break from reality”. // In a press release, the band said they would be experimenting with post-punk, garage rock, power pop, new wave, and rock en español on the album. At the time of its announcement, the band members ranged from 13 to 19 years old, with Bela Salazar having finished high school, Mila de la Garza having finished middle school, and Lucia de la Garza and Eloise Wong in high school. “All in My Head” has been described by Lucia as more indie song, due to its use of an acoustic guitar. “Too Many Things” is a pop-punk song. Staff at Paste call the song “an anthemic slice of rock ‘n’ roll”. “Resolution/Revolution” is classified as a punk rock and power pop song, with influences from riot grrrl style. In a review at Far Out, editor Aimee Ferrier says the song “[blends] the accessibility of pop with the raw energy and power of punk.” “Resolution / Revolution” was influenced by Pantera and Judas Priest, as Bela Salazar had been listening to them.]

10:41 – More Interview with Brock Wilbur and Nick Spacek

Today, we welcome Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek of The Pitch. The Annual Pitch “Best Of” Issue hits the streets this Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. We’re talking with Brock & Nick about some of the “Headlines” of 2024. And, Nick is sharing his 10 Favorite Musical Releases of 2024.

Brock Wilbur is the editor-in-chief of The Pitch in Kansas City. Nick Spacek is the music editor of the Pitch.

The Pitch “Best Of” issue is out. http://www.thepitchkc.com

Top Stories of 2024 from The Pitch “Best of” issue – Our Picks – SPORTS

Royals Stadium Proposal in East Crossroads – Voters overwhelmingly reject naked cash grab for downtown stadium – After more than a year of reporting by The Pitch and other activists about backroom dealings around proposed Royal stadium move, a thinly outlined plan to allocate funds for the next 40 years to John Sherman and co. was flatly rejected by nearly 60% of voters. $3.5 Million dollar campaign to sell proposal to voters became threatening, untrue, and racist in the weekly mailings. Jackson Country Legislators and City Hall looked incredibly out-of-touch with voters. (excerpt from Pitch Best Of Issue – November, 2024)

Chiefs on track to 3-peat

KC Currrent

10:51

Kaitlin Butts – “You Ain’t Gotta Die (To Be Dead To Me)” (Nick’s #5)
rom: Roadrunner! / Soundly Music / June 28, 2024
[Kaitlin Butts has never been one to shy away from a little drama in her music. In fact, intrigue and murder have been recurring themes in her catalog. All the more reason for the Oklahoma native to lean into that theatrical side of her music for her third official album inspired by the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical Oklahoma! It’s called Roadrunner! and it’s set for release on June 28th. // “Every summer when I was a kid my parents would take me to see a performance of ‘Oklahoma!’ at a local amphitheater, and I’ve felt such a strong connection to it my entire life,” says Butts. “It’s a love story but there’s also a murder and a little bit of an acid-trippy feel to it at times; it’s set in the same place where I come from. Once I got the idea for this album I couldn’t believe I hadn’t thought of it before, and it turned into something that completely encompasses who I am and what I love.” // If you loved her last album what else can she do (2022) but the seven songs left you wanting even more, don’t worry, Roadrunner! will include a total 17 tracks. It’s an epic, conceptualized work produced by Oran Thornton, with contributions from steel-guitar/multi-instrumentalist Russ Pahl. Vince Gill and Cleto Cordero also pop in for a featured spots, and co-writers include Angaleena Presley, Natalie Hemby, and Courtney Patton. // Kaitlin has done nothing but continued to create buzz and momentum around her career behind quality songs and strong performances. This gives Roadrunner! the opportunity to really put her over the top. “Making this album showed me that little ideas can grow and take on a life on their own, and it’s so exciting to know that sticking with my vision can lead to something bigger than I ever even imagined,” she says. // The album draws directly from Rodgers and Hammerstein in a couple of moments, and also includes a cover of Kesha’s “Hunt You Down” that Kaitlin released a couple of months ago and has already been creating social media buzz. Now Kaitlin has released the album’s title track (listen below), which fans have been hearing live for a while now. // Roadrunner! is an album of music, but Butts wants to create a strong visual and interactive component to it, which we’ve already seen from the early songs and videos, including the title track inspired by the touring life. // “The version of me depicted in the video is much closer to what I’m like onstage, where there’s real emotion and truth but also humor and a tendency to poke fun. It’s all those different versions of me at once. In making this music video, I wanted to show the highs and lows and chaotic lifestyle that I love so much.”]

GEL – “Persona” (Nick’s #4)
rom: Persona – EP / Blue Grape Music / August 16, 2024
[Gel is an American hardcore punk band from New Jersey. Formed in 2018 as a side project of powerviolence band Sick Shit, Gel has released one full-length album, two EPs, one demo, and one split mini album. Huw Baines of NME credited them for “shaping the sound of hardcore in 2023”. // Gel has its origins in New Jersey powerviolence band Sick Shit, which was founded by guitarist Bobko and drummer Zach Miller. Sami Kaiser joined soon after. When Sick Shit’s bassist departed from the group, the role was filled by Anthony Webster, who soon after switched to guitar. This lineup of Sick Shit began Gel in 2018 as a side project in order to pursue a more traditional hardcore punk style. Gel released their debut self-titled EP in 2019. That same year, the band released a tape called HC For The Freaks. The band released their second EP in 2021 titled Violent Closure. Gel also released a standalone single in 2021 called “Mental Static”. In 2022, Gel released a split, Shock Therapy, with the band Cold Brats. The band’s debut album, Only Constant, was released on March 31, 2023. The album received positive reviews. // On August 16, 2024, Gel released a 5-song EP titled “Persona” on new record label Blue Grape Music. The EP’s themes were inspired by the works of Carl Jung, particularly his concept of the shadow self. “Persona” has been well-received by critics, with praise for its sonic evolution that incorporates a bolder production style while maintaining the band’s aggressive hardcore sound. // Gel play a style of traditional, fast hardcore punk. Their music sometimes makes use of elements of post-punk and D-beat. Unlike the predominant style in hardcore during the 2010s and 2020s, Gel’s music leans heavily on the genre’s punk rock roots. Revolver magazine called their “fast, noisy and uncompromisingly energetic” style as “filling the void that’s been empty in the broader hardcore landscape since the early days of Trash Talk”. Members: (Current) Sami Kaiser – vocals (2018–present); Matthew Bobko – bass (2018–present); Madison Nave – guitar (2021–present); Alex Salter – drums (2023-present). (Former) Anthony Webster – guitar (2018–2024); and Zach Miller – drums (2018-2023)]

10:57 – More Interview with Brock Wilbur and Nick Spacek

Today, we welcome Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek of The Pitch. The Annual Pitch “Best Of” Issue hits the streets this Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. We’re talking with Brock & Nick about some of the “Headlines” of 2024. And, Nick is sharing his 10 Favorite Musical Releases of 2024.

Brock Wilbur is the editor-in-chief of The Pitch in Kansas City. Nick Spacek is the music editor of the Pitch.

Top Stories of 2024 from The Pitch “Best of” issue – Our Picks

Celebrating Weed without worry – another year into recreational legality – Recreational cannabis sales have been legalized in the state of Missouri for almost two years now. Topping $2.5 Billion in sales as of May 2024, since medical cannabis sales were legalized in October 2020. – $370 million of cumulative sakes tax revenue from $2.5 billion dollars was generated for a good cause: expunging marijuana-related criminal records and funding veteran’s healthcare, Creating 20,000 jobs. (excerpt from Pitch Best Of Issue – November, 2024)

Moctails

11:06

Odie Leigh – “My Name on a T-Shirt” (Nick’s #3)
from: Carrier Pigeon / Mom + Pop / July 12, 2024
[American indie folk musician from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, currently based in Detroit, Michigan. // Leigh attended Loyola University New Orleans, where she studied film. Leigh gained attention after her original song “Crop Circles” went viral on TikTok. At the time of the recording of Crop Circles, Leigh was living with two hip hop musicians, and all three made a bet for who could make a viral song first. Leigh released her debut EP, How Did It Seem To You, in 2022. Leigh released her second EP, The Only Thing Worse Than A Woman Who Lies Is A Girl Who’ll Tell Truths, in 2023. In 2024, Leigh announced her debut album. The album, Carrier Pigeon, was released on July 12, 2024. The album was named one of “The best albums out July 12” from All Things Considered. Leigh was named “The Best of What’s Next” by Paste in 2024.]

Kathryn Hahn, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Patti LuPone, Aubrey Plaza, Joe Locke & Agatha All Along Cast – “The Ballad of the Witches’ Road (Cover Version)” (Nick’s #2)
from: Agatha All Along: Vol. 1 (Episodes 1-5) [Orig. Soundtrack] / Marvel Music / Oct. 11, 2024
[‘The Ballad of The Witches’ Road (Cover Version)‘ is a featured song from the fourth episode of the Disney+ and Marvel Television original miniseries ‘Agatha All Along’. The song was written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez and features the cast of show, performed within the episode as a part of Alice’s trial. // Agatha All Along is an American television miniseries created by Jac Schaeffer for the streaming service Disney+, based on Marvel Comics featuring the character Agatha Harkness. A spin-off from the series WandaVision (2021), it is the 11th television series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) produced by Marvel Studios and the first to be released under its Marvel Television label, sharing continuity with the films of the franchise. Schaeffer serves as showrunner and lead director. // Kathryn Hahn reprises her role as Agatha Harkness from WandaVision, with Joe Locke, Debra Jo Rupp, Aubrey Plaza, Sasheer Zamata, Ali Ahn, Okwui Okpokwasili, Patti LuPone, Evan Peters, Maria Dizzia, Paul Adelstein, and Miles Gutierrez-Riley also starring. Development began in October 2021, with Schaeffer and Hahn attached, and the series was formally announced the next month. Schaeffer, Rachel Goldberg, and Gandja Monteiro were set as directors in early 2023 ahead of filming, which took place from January to May 2023 at Trilith Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, and in Los Angeles. Cast and crew returned from WandaVision, including the series’ musical team. Several different titles were announced for the series as part of a marketing campaign before the official title of Agatha All Along—referencing the song of the same name from WandaVision—was announced in May 2024. // Agatha All Along premiered on Disney+ on September 18, 2024, and ran for nine episodes until October 30. The series is part of Phase Five of the MCU. It received positive reviews from critics, with praise for its production value, humor, and the cast’s performances, especially those of Hahn, Locke, LuPone, and Plaza.// Three years after being trapped under a magical spell in the town of Westview, New Jersey, at the end of the miniseries WandaVision (2021), the witch Agatha Harkness escapes with the help of a teen who wishes to face the trials of the legendary Witches’ Road. Without her magical powers, Agatha and the teen form a new coven of witches to face the trials, while contending with some of Agatha’s old enemies such as the Salem Seven.]

11:15 – More Interview with Brock Wilbur and Nick Spacek

Today, we welcome Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek of The Pitch. The Annual Pitch “Best Of” Issue hits the streets this Monday, Nov. 4, 2024. We’re talking with Brock & Nick about some of the “Headlines” of 2024. And, Nick is sharing his 10 Favorite Musical Releases of 2024.

Brock Wilbur is the editor-in-chief of The Pitch in Kansas City. Nick Spacek is the music editor of the Pitch.

The Pitch Best Of issue is out. http://www.thepitchkc.com

Top Stories of 2024 from The Pitch “Best of” issue – Our Picks

KC Fringe Festival – Tom Mardikes UMKC Theatre Sound Dept. – Sound Mandala

KC Music Makers: Hembree / The Greeting Committe / Epitome

Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek, thanks for being with us on WMM.

The Pitch “Best of” Issue is divided between The “Our Picks” section, selected by The Pitch writers, and the “Your Picks” section, where people of KC cast 517,861 votes across 488 categories and 2,900 nominees, selecting their favorite people, restaurants, creators, businesses, and places. The second half of the issue is fully hands-off from our internal team, and no weight was placed on any of the scales. The winners and runners-up in these categories were 1000% picked by the city after rounds of nomination and voting. http://www.thepitchkc.com

11:25

VCMN & Joel Leoj – “Fab (Vmix)” (Nick’s #1)
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

11:28 – Underwriting

11:30 – Interview with Damron Russel Armstrong

Damron Russel Armstrong, Executive Artistic Director of The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City. Damron is a producer/director/actor who spent his formative years right here in Kansas City. He has worked on most of the stages Kansas City: Unicorn Theatre, The Coterie Theatre, Theatre for Young America, The American Heartland Theatre, The Living Room Theatre, Chestnut Fine Arts Center, New Theatre Restaurant, and Kansas City Actors Theatre. After graduating from Ruskin High School, Damron sought to further his education in New York City. He has performed nationally in A Raisin in the Sun; The Full Monty; Children of Eden; and Dreamgirls, just to name a few. As a Director, his credits include: Three Guys Naked from the Waist Down…A Comedy; Assassins; and Red Hot and Jazz (Piza Festival, Guatemala).

The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City kicks off their 2024/25 Season with, Hip Hop Cinderella, a family-friendly musical that reimagines the classic Cinderella in a futuristic, intergalactic setting. Music & lyrics by Rona Siddiqui, Book by Scott Elmegreen, Story adaptation by Linda Chichester & David Coffman. Hip Hop Cinderella runs Nov. 22 thru December 8 at The GEM Theatre 1615 E 18th St. KCMO. More info at: http://www.brtkc.org

Damron Russel Armstrong thanks for being with us on WMM.

The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City is the premiere home for African American plays and musicals! Come help us celebrate our ninth season of great work.orie

The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City (BRTKC) is a not-for-profit organization designed to impact the Kansas City community. This production company utilizes theatre productions, and educational programming to enhance the contributions made by minorities in our neighborhoods and communities and beyond. Each production has been tasked to give life to the neglected stories, virtually untold in American theatres. In an effort to bridge the gap between the rich realities of black experiences and the incomplete depiction displayed in most media outlets, BRTKC tells the tales of the unsung.

Mission Statement: The mission of The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City is to educate and inspire our community by presenting and promoting appreciation for African-American culture through our stories.

Vision Statement: The vision of The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City is a united community embracing stories of the African-American experience.

The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City 2024/25 Season #9

Hip Hop Cinderella – November 22 through December 8, 2024
The Gem Theatre, 1615 E 18th St., Kansas City, MO 64108

Hairspray – February 1 through February 23, 2025
The White Theater at The J, 5801 W 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211
(a co-production with The White Theater at the J)

Mahalia A Gospel Musical – March 20 through April 6, 2025 – Location TBA

Thoughts of a Colored Man – May 8 through May 18 – Location TBA

The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City – Board of Directors and Advisors
Tracy E. Jamerson – President
Willard Snyder – Vice President
Kenneth Powell – Treasurer
Jeff Williams – Secretary
Dr. Everlyn Williams – Education Chair
Karen Wright – Community Outreach
Amy Hull – Volunteer Chair
Dr. Chris McCoy – Operations Chair
Damron Armstrong – Executive Artistic Director
Maurice Watson
Pat Jordan
Michelle Wimes
Gayle Krigel
Debby Ballard
Dennis Hennesy
S. Sloane Simmons
Mamie Hughes

info@brtkc.org

About the Young Actor’s Summer Conservatory (YASC) – is a 4-week theatre intensive run by The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City, a professional non-profit 501(c)3 theatre based in Jackson County, MO. Under the direction of Damron Russel Armstrong, students will be trained by theatre professionals in drama, dance, music, stagecraft, and African American theatre history. The program culminates in a fully-staged production. Students must be available for the duration of the program. the conservatory runs Monday through Friday from 1 to 6 pm beginning June 3 through the show date of June 28 at 7pm. A limited number of scholarships are available to qualifying students (see Scholarship Request form for more information).

Get in Touch! at 816-663-9966 / PO Box 410294 Kansas City, MO 64141 / info@brtkc.org

Coming in the fall of 2025, the new home for The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City will be Boone Theater, 1701 E. 18th St., Kansas City, MO 64108

Damron Russel Armstrong thanks for being with us on WMM

The Black Repertory Theatre of Kansas City kicks off their 2024/25 Season with, Hip Hop Cinderella, a family-friendly musical that reimagines the classic Cinderella in a futuristic, intergalactic setting. music & lyrics by Rona Siddiqui, Book by Scott Elmegreen, & story adaptation by Linda Chichester & David Coffman. Hip Hop Cinderella runs November 22 through December 8 at The GEM Theatre 1615 E 18th St. KCMO. Tickets and More informational: http://www.brtkc.org

11:51 – Tribute to Quincy Jones

On Sunday, November 2, 2024 we lost a legend. Quincy Delight Jones Jr. (March 14, 1933 – November 3, 2024) was an American record producer, composer, arranger, conductor, trumpeter, and bandleader. Over the course of his seven-decade career, he received many accolades including 28 Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Tony Award as well as nominations for seven Academy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards.

Jones came to prominence in the 1950s as a jazz arranger and conductor before producing pop hit records for Lesley Gore in the early 1960s (including “It’s My Party”) and serving as an arranger and conductor for several collaborations between Frank Sinatra and the jazz artist Count Basie. Jones produced three of the most successful albums by pop star Michael Jackson: Off the Wall (1979), Thriller (1982), and Bad (1987). In 1985, Jones produced and conducted the charity song “We Are the World”, which raised funds for victims of famine in Ethiopia.

Jones composed numerous films scores including for The Pawnbroker (1965), In the Heat of the Night (1967), In Cold Blood (1967), The Italian Job (1969), The Wiz (1978), and The Color Purple (1985). He won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Music Composition for a Series for the miniseries Roots (1977). He received a Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical as a producer for the revival of The Color Purple (2016).

Throughout his career he was the recipient of numerous honorary awards including the Grammy Legend Award in 1992, the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1995, the Kennedy Center Honors in 2001, the National Medal of the Arts in 2011, the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres in 2014, and the Academy Honorary Award in June 2024. He was named one of the most influential jazz musicians of the 20th century by Time.

Thank you all for listening For WMM I’m Mark Manning. Thanks for listening!

11:54

Quincy Jones – “Stuff Like That”
from: Sounds…and Stuff Like That / A & M / 1978
[Sounds…and Stuff Like That!! is a 1978 studio album by Quincy Jones. // “Stuff Like That” (Quincy Jones, Valerie Simpson, Nickolas Ashford, Eric Gale, Steve Gadd, Richard Tee, Ralph MacDonald) Vocalists: Nick Ashford, Valerie Simpson, Chaka Khan Alto sax solo: George Young.]

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

On The Next Show! – Next week on Wednesday, November 20 we welcome back Michelle Bacon, Content Manager at 90.9 The Bridge, where she helps to shine a light on area musicians and events. Michelle Bacon joins us to share her Favorite Musical Recordings of 2024.

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

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

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

Show #1069

WMM Playlist from November 6, 2024

Posted on November 8, 2024 by Mark Manning

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 6, 2024

Katie Gilchrist + Karalyne Winegarner + Destiny Atkinson & Kate Hall of Afterword Tavern & Shelves

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

Prince & The Revolution– “America”
from: Around The World In A Day / NPG Records / April 22, 1985
[Around the World in a Day is the seventh studio album by American recording artist Prince, and the second release on which his backing band the Revolution is billed. It was released on April 22, 1985, by Paisley Park Records and Warner Bros. Records. Departing somewhat from the commercial sound of his previous release, the massively successful Purple Rain (1984), the album instead saw Prince experimenting with psychedelic styles and more opulent textures. In compliance with Prince’s wishes, the record company released the album with minimal publicity, withholding accompanying singles until almost a month after the album’s release. // Around the World in a Day was released to mixed reception among crossover audiences after the success of Purple Rain, though it nonetheless sold relatively well and became Prince and the Revolution’s second number-one album on the Billboard 200. Two of its four singles reached the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100: “Raspberry Beret” and “Pop Life”. Following Prince’s death, “Raspberry Beret” re-charted on the Billboard Hot 100 as a top 40 hit, reaching number 33. Around the World in a Day was certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) on July 2, 1985. // Recording for Around the World in a Day was begun in sessions dating back before that of Purple Rain. Following six months of touring behind that bestselling album, Prince returned to recording. An initial inspiration for the album’s sound came in the form of a demo, recorded by David Coleman, the brother of Revolution band member Lisa Coleman, which would ultimately become the title track. // The album pursued a dense, psychedelic style that made use of unconventional instruments and cryptic lyrics. Its sound and album cover painting by Doug Henders (artist) drew numerous comparisons to the Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album. Prince spoke in an interview about the album’s sound and cover, denying inspiration from the Beatles: // “The influence wasn’t the Beatles. They were great for what they did, but I don’t know how that would hang today. The cover art came about because I thought people were tired of looking at me. Who wants another picture of him? I would only want so many pictures of my woman, then I would want the real thing. What would be a little more happening than just another picture would be if there was some way I could materialize in people’s cribs when they play the record. I don’t mind [the album being called psychedelic], because that was the only period in recent history that delivered songs and colors. Led Zeppelin, for example, would make you feel differently on each song.” // Despite the muted promotion and its less commercial sound, the album still had two American top 10 hits, and went double platinum. Initial critical reception was mixed, but retrospective reviews are positive. // According to Prince, George Clinton was a fan of the album. ” Greg Tate of Spin wrote, “Perhaps it’s inevitable, given a career built as much on calculated mindfucking as mindblowing music, that Prince would choose to follow the best album of his career with the most bewildering, if not the worst.” // In a positive retrospective review for Pitchfork, Alan Light described the album as “a brave and deeply personal project, exploring sounds and ideas that were almost shocking coming from a pop icon at his peak.” Simon Price wrote for The Guardian that the album “always sounds better than you think it will, when you revisit.”]

Janelle Monáe – “Turntables”
from: Turntables (from the Amazon Original Movie “All In: The Fight for Democracy”) – Single / Badboy Records / September 4, 2020
[All In: The Fight for Democracy is a 2020 American documentary film directed and produced by Liz Garbus and Lisa Cortés. The film revolves around voter suppression. Stacey Abrams worked with Garbus and Cortés on the film. It was released in a limited theatrical release on September 9, 2020, followed by digital streaming on Prime Video on September 18, 2020, by Amazon Studios. Originally, Abrams, a Georgia state representative, did not intend to be part of the film; eventually she agreed to include her gubernatorial race as part of the story. // Janelle Monáe Robinson was born on December 1, 1985 in Kansas City, Kansas and was raised in a working-class community of Kansas City, Quindaro. Her mother, Janet, worked as a janitor and a hotel maid. Her father, Michael Robinson Summers, was a truck driver. Monáe’s parents separated when Monáe was a toddler and her mother later married a postal worker. Monáe has a younger sister, Kimmy, from their mother’s remarriage. // Monáe was raised Baptist and learned to sing at a local church. Her family members were musicians and performers at the local AME church, the Baptist church, and the Church of God in Christ. Monáe dreamed of being a singer and a performer from a very young age, and has cited the fictional character of Dorothy Gale from The Wizard of Oz as a musical influence. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, which Monáe bought two copies of with her first check, was another source of inspiration. She performed songs from the album on Juneteenth talent shows, winning three years in a row. // As a teenager, Monáe was enrolled in the Coterie Theater’s Young Playwrights’ Round Table, which began writing musicals. One musical, completed when she was around the age of 12, was inspired by the 1979 Stevie Wonder album Journey Through “The Secret Life of Plants”. // Monáe attended F. L. Schlagle High School, and after high school, moved to New York City to study musical theater at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy, where she was the only black woman in her class. Monáe enjoyed the experience, but feared that she might lose her edge and “sound, or look or feel like anybody else”. In a 2010 interview Monáe explained, “I felt like that was a home but I wanted to write my own musicals. I didn’t want to have to live vicariously through a character that had been played thousands of times – in a line with everybody wanting to play the same person.” // After a year and a half, Monáe dropped out of the academy and relocated to Atlanta, enrolling in Perimeter College at Georgia State University. She began writing her own music and performing around the campus. In 2003, Monáe self-released a demo album titled The Audition, which she sold out of the trunk of a Mitsubishi Galant. During this period, Monáe became acquainted with songwriters and producers Chuck Lightning and Nate Wonder. The three would eventually form the Wondaland Arts Collective. She worked at an Office Depot but was fired for answering a fan’s e-mail using a company computer, an incident that inspired the song “Lettin’ Go”, which in turn attracted the attention of Big Boi. // Janelle Monáe Robinson (/moʊˈneɪ/; born December 1, 1985) is an American singer, songwriter, rapper, actress, and record producer. Monáe is signed to Atlantic Records, as well as to her own imprint, the Wondaland Arts Society. Monáe has received eight Grammy Award nominations. Monáe won an MTV Video Music Award and the ASCAP Vanguard Award in 2010. Monáe was also honored with the Billboard Women in Music Rising Star Award in 2015 and the Trailblazer of the Year Award in 2018. In 2012, Monáe became a CoverGirl spokesperson. Boston City Council named October 16, 2013 “Janelle Monáe Day” in the city of Boston, Massachusetts, in recognition of her artistry and social leadership. // Monáe’s musical career began in 2003 upon releasing a demo album titled The Audition. In 2007, Monáe publicly debuted with a conceptual EP titled Metropolis: Suite I (The Chase). It peaked at number two on the US Top Heatseekers chart, and in 2010, through Bad Boy Records, Monáe released a first full-length studio album, The ArchAndroid, a concept album and sequel to her first EP. In 2011, Monáe was featured as a guest vocalist on fun.’s single “We Are Young”, which achieved major commercial success, topping the charts of more than ten countries and garnering Monáe a wider audience. Her second studio album, The Electric Lady, was released in 2013 and debuted at number five on the Billboard 200, serving as the fourth and fifth installments of the seven-part Metropolis concept series. // In 2016, Monáe made her theatrical film debut in two high-profile productions; Monáe starred in Hidden Figures as NASA mathematician and aerospace engineer Mary Jackson, and also starred in Moonlight. Hidden Figures was a box office success, while Moonlight won the Academy Award for Best Picture at the 89th annual ceremony. Monáe’s third studio album, Dirty Computer, also described as a concept album, was released in 2018 to widespread critical acclaim; it was chosen as the best album of the year by several publications and earned Monáe two nominations at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. The album debuted at number six on the Billboard 200 and was further promoted by Monáe’s Dirty Computer Tour, which lasted from June to August 2018.]

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. Mofre info at: http://www.themusicaltheband.com]

[Mikal Shapiro & The Musical play a “Sunshine Lover” Release Party with Mitzi McKee, and Just Angel on Friday November 15, at 7:00pm at Grand Avenue Temple, 205 East 9th Street, KCMO Feat. guest vocalists Beth Watts Nelson (Little Miss Dynamite, Notorious Chorus), Erika Noguera (Doña Fina Coffee), Just Angel and Mitzi McKee.]

Dan Jones and The Squids – “Shook Loose”
from: Rock And Roll Daydreams / Dan Jones / Aug. 5, 2023
[ROCK AND ROLL DAYDREAMS that was released on vinyl on September 1, 2023. Dan Jones and The Squids are: Dan Jones on vocals & guitar; Matt Ronan on drums & vocals, and Steve Tulipana on bass. On the record Rich Wheeler joined them on tenor saxophone for the songs, “Rock & Roll Daydreams” and “Rhythm and The Rhyme.” Their album was engineered by Brendan “JB” Moreland at Temple Sounds in KCMO and mixed by Brendan at Massive Sound Studios in Shawnee, KS. // Dan Jones and The Squids released SERVE WITHOUT DELAY on February 5, 2021. It was recorded Friday, February 13, 2020 at recordBar, with Paul Malinowski: live sound & recording engineer. Mixed and edited by Paul Malinowski at Massive Sound, Shawnee Kansas. Mastered by Tom Nunes at Atomic Disc. Dan Jones on guitar & vocals, Matt Ronan on drums & vocals; Steve Tulipana on bass & vocals. All songs by Daniel Sherman Jones (BMI), except “I Wanna Be You” by Ed Cole. In 2020 the band didn’t get to play out much, so they hunkered down and worked up a double album’s worth of new tunes. It was a weekly woodshed-workshop that culminated with a live-streamed live-album show on November 13, 2020 at recordBar. Paul Malinowski engineered and mixed. // Dan Jones and The Squids released WE LIVE IN A WORLD THAT IS OUT OF THIS WORLD on December 6, 2019. It was Recorded at Temple Sounds in KCMO, 2018-2019. Engineered. by JB Moreland. Produced by Dan Jones and The Squids and JB Moreland. Mastered by Tom Nunes at Atomic Disc. With Dan Jones on acoustic & electric guitars, keyboard, lead vocals + drums/bass on “Love/Life”; Matt Ronan on drums, percussion, vocals; Alex Alexander on electric guitar, vocals; Steve Tulipana on bass, vocals; Joey Slab on poem and spiel on “Beach, Please”; Scot Sperry on electric slide guitar on “Love/Life”; Donna Jones on lyrics to “The Violet Man.” / Dan Jones is among the hardworking lifers with taste and talent, keeping the dream alive that music matters. This is the Kansas City singer/songwriter’s seventh LP over two decades, starting in Eugene, OR before returning to his native, non-coastal home. His bio speaks of support gigs with Mike Watt (who plays these Squids on his radio show), Dinosaur Jr., Steve Wynn, John Doe, Tav Falco, Pedaljets, Peter Case, and Minus 5, all hinted at in his fine music. But what he/they most remind of is Watt’s influence The Urinals/100 Flowers, in the way he breaks out homey tunes in the rush of spikier energy—like “My Favorite Lounge,” which spits guitar glory with gusto following tight circular riffs, while hailing soulful, sweaty dives with honest bands. It’s where you’d want to catch Jones and his cephalopods, happily blasting away. . // More info at: More info at: http://www.danjonesmusic.com][Dan Jones and The Squids played a Record Release Show at Woodyard BBQ, 3001 Merriam, in KCK, on Saturday, September 9, at 7:00 PM. with Tick Check. Dan Jones & Steve Tulipana joined us on WMM on Sept. 6, 2023.]

[Dan Jones & The Squids play miniBar, 3810 Broadway, KCMO, Sunday, November 10 at 7:00pm with La Cerca, and Expassionates]

Erik Voeks & The Ghosters – “Everything Dissolves”
from: It Means Nothing Now / Erik Voeks / December 1, 2023
[Produced by The Ghosters. All songs written by Bermejo, Ferrari, Hawley & Voeks. The Ghosters are: Juan Ferrari on guitars & keyboards, Pepe Bermejo on bass guitar & vocals, Patrick Hawley on drums & percussion, and Erik Voeks on vocals & guitar. Recorded at Sandusky Sound, Temple Sound, Weights and Measures Soundlab, Rolltop, La Quinta Disminuida and Village Green. Mixed by: Duane Trower (tracks 1,3,5,6,8,11,12). Adam Schmitt (tracks 4,9,10). Pepe Bermejo (tracks 2,7). Horns composed/arranged by Ryan Oldham. Horn session produced by David George. Horns played by: Brett Jackson, Peter Fucinaro, Kristen Nall, Nate Nall. Artwork by Sonia M Paredero. Thanks to: Coleen, Ryan Oldham, David George, Duane Trower, Adam Schmitt, Jack Petracek, JB Moreland, Bárbara, Olivia, Alberto León, Kike and Yani Marinelli for continuous faith, trust and cheer up, and Sonia for her beautiful artwork. Pepe would like to thank Erik, Patrick and Juan. More info at: http://www.erikvoeks.bandcamp.com]

[Erik Voeks plays Erik Voeks’ SANDBOX at The Brick, 1727 McGee Street, KCMO on Saturday, November 9, at 9:00pm. Playing with Erik at this show will be the original Sandbox drummer Patrick Hawley and bassist Steve Scariano. Joining them will be John Horton (Son Volt, Bottlerockets) and Jared Bond (JB & The Tornados, Josephine Collective). Erik writes, “We won’t be playing the entire Sandbox album. We’ll play a bunch of songs from that album and other songs from throughout the years.” Opening band is Wirebirds a new project out of St.Louis made up of: Christopher Grabau, Sean Garcia, John Horton, and Patrick Hawley.]

BLACKSTARKIDS – “Sounds Like Fun”
from: SURF / Dirty Hit Records / February 28, 2020
[Gen-Z upstarts BLACKSTARKIDS released HEAVEN ON URF on October 25, 2024 on Dirty Hit Records. The band had just a month earlier released their sixth studio album Saturn Dayz, on September 20, 2024 via Dirty Hit. The lead single “SOULMATEZ!,” is a magnetic, blissed-out bop that brings together pop, indie, and alt-rap, reminiscent of Dev Hynes-era Solange mixed with De La Soul. // The follow up to BLACKSTARKIDS’ acclaimed 2022 album CYBERKISS* which featured standout singles “CYBERKISS 2 U* ft. beabadoobee” and “SEX APPEAL,” SATURN DAYZ is an otherworldly, genre-crossing testament to their unrelenting artistry and is their most impressive work to date. PRESS HERE to pre-save SATURN DAYZ. // Putting out music at a prolific rate and making waves for their formidable songwriting and producing talents, as well as their endless energy and truly limitless sound, BLACKSTARKIDS have received critical acclaim from New York Times, MTV, UPROXX, Billboard, Alternative Press, SPIN, Ones To Watch, Rolling Stone France, The Line Of Best Fit, DIY, Coup De Main, and more. Blending garage rock with synth-punk and hip-hop to usher in a new surge of indie, such as on their beloved album Puppies Forever which features anthemic singles “ALL COPS ARE BASTARDS,” “JUNO,” and “FIGHT CLUB,” BLACKSTARKIDS are well on their way to indie stardom and have previously toured with the likes of The 1975, COIN, Glass Animals, beabadoobee, Christian Leave, GroupLove. // Incorporating each member’s wide-ranging influences into their blissful DIY sound, such as Toro Y Moi, NERD*, Smashing Pumpkins, Weezer, Outkast, Odd Future, and A Tribe Called Quest, BLACKSTARKIDS first captivated the internet with their “black coming of age trilogy” of projects Let’s Play Sports, Surf, and Whatever, Man that feature critically acclaimed singles including “BRITNEY BITCH” and “FRANKIE MUNIZ.” // Blackstarkids are phenomenon who came out of Kansas City in 2020 became the soundtrack for the summer. Blackstarkids are a pop/R&B/hip-hop trio based in Kansas City, Missouri. Members include: TheBabeGabe, Deiondre, and TyFaizon (of the Drop Dead XX collective). The members have known each other since high school in Raytown, Missouri. Members met at Raytown South High School and formed the band in 2019. The group released its first album, Let’s Play Sports, on August 1, 2019. Blackstarkids then released their second album SURF through their own label Bedroom Records on February 28, 2020. Blackstarkids caught the attention of The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy and were then signed to The 1975’s management company and UK-based label Dirty Hit Records. They were featured in Clash Magazine. Blackstarkids then released, Surf Basement Demos on Dirty Hit Records on March 5, 2020. On October 29, 2020, Blackstarkids released Whatever, Man on Dirty Hit Records, their third album release of 2020. Gabe, of Blackstarkids recently described the KC Music community to an interviewer, “The music scene here is really nice. There are a lot of bands who are super talented and do all types of genres. The jazz music here is really great as well. Kansas City is honestly a hidden gem when it comes to music. I feel like you can meet an artist anywhere and anyplace in this city.” Deiondre added, “The music scene here is getting cool now, there’s a lot of jazz musicians that go to school for music here too but you can find people from different scenes all over if around the city.” Ty wrote, “The Kansas City scene is great, the community here is so supportive and genuine. This is a really prideful city here and I think they’re finally getting the musicians they deserve.”]

[Blackstarkids were scheduled to do a Final Home Show November 11, at recordbar. Apparently that show has been cancelled.]

Paris Williams & The Human – “Alien Luv” (radio edit)
from: “Alien Luv” – Single w/A Paris Williams Joint / Bitter Sweet Sound – Seven Rings / October 30, 2024
[Paris Williams is a 24-year old artist from Muskegon, Michigan in the midst of redefining the bedroom pop label. Employing his own sound that he’s dubbed, “bittersweet,” Williams never shuts away from his DIY aesthetic – producing his own work to maintain full creative flexibility. Premiering in December of 2019 with his debut album, DROP DEAD GORGEOUS, Paris is a believer in hitting the ground running and then just never letting off the gas. This mentality was shaped by the inspiration he’s pulled from other famously out-of-the-box artists: such as Kanye West, Pharrell, and Toro y Moi. // Fueled by the multi-faceted artists, Williams believes heavily in pulling from all creative mediums as a way to add layers and texture to his music. This approach has led to Williams seeing support from larger than life musical pillars, like Iggy Pop himself – who showed love to Williams’ song of the same name by spinning it on his BBC radio show in 2018. Williams reshapes the musical landscape around him as his burgeoning career continues to solidify its own form more and more each day by bringing in a breath of fresh air with him everywhere since he wrote his first bars in elementary school. Paris Williams previously released the single, “Hopscotch” on June 21, 2022. He released,“Chunky”on April 20, 2022. He released the single, “Sunsets & Solariums (feat. Bloom Allen)” on October 21, 2021 through Bittersweet Sounds. More info at: allmylinks.com/popstarparis]

[Paris Williams plays recordBar, 1520 Grand Ave. KCMO on Thursday, November 21 at 7:00pm with Supermoto and Fritz Huchinson.]

10:30 – Underwriting

Cibo Matto – “Black (H)ole Sun” (Vinyl 7” Single)
from: “Birthday Cake” – Single w/ “Black Hole Sun” / El Diablo Records / 1995
[“Black Hole Sun” is a song by American rock band Soundgarden. Written by frontman Chris Cornell, the song was released in 1994 by A&M Records as the third single from the band’s fourth studio album, Superunknown (1994). Considered to be the band’s signature song, it topped the US Billboard Album Rock Tracks chart, where it spent a total of seven weeks at number one. Despite peaking at number two on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, “Black Hole Sun” finished as the number-one track of 1994 for that listing. Worldwide, the single reached the top 10 in Australia, Canada, France, and Ireland, while in Iceland, it reached number one. // “Black Hole Sun” was included on Soundgarden’s 1997 greatest hits album A-Sides and also appeared on the 2010 compilation album Telephantasm. // Cibo Matto (pronounced [ˈtʃiːbo ˈmatto], Italian for “crazy food”) was an American alternative rock band formed by Yuka Honda and Miho Hatori in New York City in 1994. Their first album, Viva! La Woman (1996), had lyrics primarily concerned with food. For their second album, Stereo Type A (1999), they expanded into broader subject matter and recruited Sean Lennon, Timo Ellis, and Duma Love. // Honda and Hatori are Japanese expatriates. Their first album sold 40,000 copies in Japan, but was more successful in the U.S., with over 74,000 copies sold. Over time, their following in Japan grew, which resulted in their signing to Japanese record label Commmons in 2014. // After an almost decade-long hiatus, Honda and Hatori reunited in 2011, playing a series of concerts and recording new material. They released their third and final studio album, Hotel Valentine, in 2014. It reached number 168 on the Billboard 200. Cibo Matto announced their split in December 2017. // After working together in the noise rock band Leitoh Lychee, Miho Hatori and Yuka Honda formed Cibo Matto in 1994 with Honda as the instrumentalist and Hatori as the vocalist (although occasionally Honda sang and Hatori contributed instrumentally). In 1995, Cibo Matto released a self titled EP on El Diablo Records. The EP caught the attention of Warner Bros. Records, which signed Cibo Matto later in the year. Through Warner Bros., the duo released its first major album, Viva! La Woman. Cibo Matto is an Italian phrase that translates to “Crazy Food” and many of the tracks from Viva! La Woman, which was produced by Mitchell Froom, featured lyrics related to food, including “Know Your Chicken”, “Apple”, and “Birthday Cake”. The album’s first single, “Sugar Water”, was a modest college radio and dance hit. The song was accompanied by an innovative split screen music video that was directed by Michel Gondry, where each side showed the same footage—one side going forward, and one backward, meeting mid-song. After the music videos for “Know Your Chicken” and “Sugar Water” enjoyed success on MTV, Cibo Matto made appearances on various television shows such as Oddville, Viva Variety, and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. “Birthday Cake” was heavily featured in the video game Jet Set Radio Future. In 1996, Cibo Matto contributed “Águas De Março (Waters of March)” to the AIDS benefit album Silencio=Muerte: Red Hot + Latin, which was produced by the Red Hot Organization. // In 1997, Cibo Matto released a new EP entitled Super Relax,[1] which would complete the line-up by introducing new members Sean Lennon and Timo Ellis with Duma Love joining soon thereafter. In 1998 Lennon released his debut solo album Into the Sun, which featured Hatori (“Into the Sun”, “Sean’s Theme”) and Ellis (“Mystery Juice”, “Home”, “Spaceship”). Into the Sun was produced and inspired by Honda (whom Lennon was dating at the time). Honda, Hatori, Ellis and Love appeared in the closing scene of the video for Lennon’s single “Home”. Cibo Matto went on to release its second album Stereo Type A in 1999. Although it was a departure from the familiar sound of Viva! La Woman, Stereo Type A was well received by music critics. That year the band performed with Luscious Jackson at The Opera House in Toronto. // Cibo Matto continued to play live and tour until disbanding in 2002. Honda said: “We felt the need to move to the next step. It was a healthy decision, though it was sad at the same time. Things just need to grow out of things sometimes.” All of the members of Cibo Matto went on to release solo material. A compilation entitled Pom Pom: The Essential Cibo Matto was released in 2007. // Cibo Matto announced its reunion on March 18, 2011, to perform as part of a benefit concert for victims of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. The concert, which took place on March 27 at Columbia University in New York City, also included Yoko Ono, John Zorn, Sonic Youth, and Mike Patton. Following the success of this show, a second was added, this time featuring the Plastic Ono Band and Patti Smith along with Cibo Matto. // The group appeared at the Hollywood Bowl on June 26, 2011, for another benefit, alongside Yellow Magic Orchestra. // On May 16, 2011, Cibo Matto announced its US reunion tour titled “Yeah, Basically Cibo Matto” with a tour Web site and promotional video. During the concerts, the band reportedly spoke about a new studio album that was to be released in 2012. On July 17, 2012, the band announced it would be opening for Wilco at one of its shows. The band included Yuko Araki on drums during this time. // On June 15, 2013, the band played the Meltdown Festival in London and announced that its new album would be released in 2014. While the performance also featured Yoko Ono on “Know Your Chicken”, the group also played new songs titled “MFN”, “Check In”, and “Tenth Floor Ghost Girl”. On December 11, Pitchfork reported that Hotel Valentine would be released on February 14, 2014 (Valentine’s Day), and that Cibo Matto had shared its music video for “MFN”. Hotel Valentine peaked at number 168 on the Billboard 200. // In 2014, the band signed with Japanese label Commmons. This new relationship resulted in several live dates in Japan including Summer Sonic Festival 2014 and shows at Blue Note Jazz Club Nagoya and Blue Note Jazz Club Tokyo. // In September 2014, Cibo Matto released a teaser video announcing their Fall Flavor Tour and a new music video. Rioux opened for multiple US shows. Nels Cline (of Wilco) also performed with the group on tour. The music video for “Déjà Vu” was released on September 18, 2014 in collaboration with New York City-based director Jean Claude Billmaier and creative house Marabigo. Pitchfork identified the video as “a colorful, datamosh-y new video”, and Spin as a “stylish bubblegum pop-meets-digital-disaster (intentional)”. // Cibo Matto completed two small tours in 2015; an “Avocado Tour” of Japan and a “Banana Split Tour” across the eastern US and Canada. On December 11, 2017, Cibo Matto announced their breakup, explaining that this was a “necessary and positive change”. // Band members Yuka Honda: sampler, sequencer, keyboard, piano, organ, synthesizer, harpsichord, backing vocals (1994–2002, 2011–2017); Miho Hatori: lead vocals, percussion, acoustic guitar (1994–2002, 2011–2017); Sean Lennon: bass guitar, electric guitar, 12-string acoustic guitar, drums, percussion, synthesizer, backing vocals (1997–2002); Timo Ellis: drums, percussion, bass guitar, electric and acoustic guitar, backing vocals (1997–2002); Duma Love: percussion, vocals, turntable, beat box (1997–2002); Yuko Araki: drums, backing vocals (2011–2017)]

Hole – “Violet”
from: Live Through This / DCG Records / April 12, 1994
[Live Through This is the second studio album by the American alternative rock band Hole, released on April 12, 1994, by DGC Records. Recorded in late 1993, it departed from the band’s unpolished hardcore aesthetics to more refined melodies and song structure. Frontwoman Courtney Love said that she wanted the record to be “shocking to the people who think that we don’t have a soft edge”, but maintain a harsh sensibility. The album was produced by Sean Slade and Paul Q. Kolderie and mixed by Scott Litt and J Mascis. The lyrics and packaging reflect Love’s thematic preoccupations with beauty, and motifs of milk, motherhood, anti-elitism, and violence against women, while Love derived the album title from a quote in Gone with the Wind (1939). // Live Through This was met with critical acclaim, and charted in nine countries before going multi-platinum in the US in December 1994. Despite this, it was also the subject of some public discussion regarding unsubstantiated rumors that Love’s husband, Kurt Cobain—who died by suicide one week before the album’s release—helped ghostwrite the album. This claim has been disputed by the band members, producers, as well as music biographers, though the band confirmed that Cobain sang additional backing vocals on two tracks during a visit to the studio. It was also the only Hole album to feature bassist Kristen Pfaff, and the final album to be released during her lifetime, as she died two months after the album’s release. // In critical circles, Live Through This is considered a contemporary classic, and was included in Rolling Stone’s 2020 updated list of The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time at number 106. It has also been featured on the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die and on NME’s The 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list, where it ranked at the 84. As of 2010, it has sold over 1.6 million copies in the US. // Hole released their debut studio album, Pretty on the Inside, in 1991. Despite moderate sales, the album was a critical success among English and American press. In March 1992, following the album tour, drummer Caroline Rue and bassist Jill Emery left the band due to artistic differences.[10] In April 1992, vocalist Courtney Love and guitarist Eric Erlandson arranged auditions for a drummer at the Jabberjaw in Los Angeles and recruited drummer Patty Schemel. Following the 1992 Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, Love, Erlandson, and Schemel relocated to a Carnation, Washington home owned by Love and her husband, the Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain, and began rehearsing and writing new material. “We had been going more pop, less journal-entry noise stuff,” said Erlandson. Love said: “I was very competitive with Kurt because I wanted more melody. But I already wanted that before Live Through This.” // Originally signed to Caroline Records in the United States[13] and City Slang in Europe, Hole began record deal negotiations with Geffen Records in early 1992. In February 1992, they signed a seven-album deal with Geffen subsidiary DGC Records, reportedly with “an advance of a million dollars and a royalty rate considerably higher than Nirvana’s”. On November 8, 1992, Hole recorded “Beautiful Son”, “20 Years in the Dakota” and “Old Age” at Word of Mouth Recording in Seattle with producer Jack Endino.[16] The songs were released in April 1993 as Hole’s fourth single on the City Slang label. On January 21, 1993, Love and Schemel recorded five demos at BMG Ariola Ltda. in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Produced by Craig Montgomery, the session had originally been scheduled as a demo session for Nirvana, who were recording material for their upcoming studio album In Utero (1993). During breaks in Nirvana’s session, Love and Schemel recorded a number of songs later featured on Live Through This, including “Miss World”, “She Walks on Me”, “I Think That I Would Die” and “Softer, Softest”. // In 1993, the band recruited former Janitor Joe bassist Kristen Pfaff, an accomplished cellist and classically trained musician who brought a new level of professionalism to the group. Erlandson said of Pfaff’s membership: “That’s when we took off, all of a sudden we became a real band.” After a brief tour of the United Kingdom in mid-1993, the band sent a series of demos to the record label. “When we got the Live Through This demos, I realized very quickly that Hole had gotten a new rhythm section,” said producer Sean Slade. “It was much more musical.”]

10:37 – Interview with Katie Gilchrist

Katie Gilchrist is a graduate of UMKC MFA Acting/Directing program and has worked as an Actor and Director professionally for over 20 years. Voted by Broadway World as Best Director of a play for last year’s “Steel Magnolias” she has directed at The Unicorn, UMKC, The Living Room, The Fishtank, and direct “Dial M for Murder” for KC Actors Theatre this summer. Katie has appeared on almost every stage in KC. She is a member of the UMKC Conservatory Alumni Board, the AIDS Service Foundation Steering Committee, Artistic Director of KC Strips, and sings with Lost Wax. Katie Gilchrist can be seen in the new film, “Rennies.”

Katie Gilchrist joined us back on January 24 of this year us to share details about The 1994 Project, her year-long 30th Anniversary tribute to the films & music of 1994, of which she is the creator/curator.

The 1994 Project presents the Alternative Tour, Saturday, November 23 at (Doors at 7:30pm) 8:30pm at The Black Box, 1060 Union Ave, WEST BOTTOMS, KCMO. More info at: http://www.theblackboxkc.com

Katie Gilchrist, Thank you for being with us on WMM.

The Day After – How are you?

Katie Gilchrist is in “Rennie” – This new feature film premiered, Kansas City – October 11th and 12th, 2024 at The Folly Theater 300 West 12th Street, KCMO – A powerhouse of female creatives: Written/Produced/Directed by Jessica Dressler and Jen Frank Klenke, Supervising Producer Marie Gough, Director of Photography Johanna Brooks, and a nearly all female executive producers group.

The 1994 Project, a year-long 30th Anniversary tribute to the films & music of 1994, of which she is the creator/curator.

The 1994 Project presents the Alternative Tour, Saturday, November 23 at (Doors at 7:30pm) 8:30pm at The Black Box, 1060 Union Ave, WEST BOTTOMS, KCMO. Join the 1994 project as we pay tribute to some of the biggest acts in Alternative Music. Featuring hits from Weezer, Soundgarden, Hole and more.

The 1994 Project resident musicians return for the penultimate live show of 2024. Felix Dukes, Mark Johnson, Ahafia Jurkiewicz-Miles, Grant Klinksick, and Chris Tady.

More info at: http://www.theblackboxkc.com

The 1994 Project presents: LITTLE WOMEN, Monday, November 25, 2024 at 7:30 at The Black Box, 1060 Union Ave, WEST BOTTOMS, KCMO. Winona Ryder, Kirsten Dunst, and Susan Sarandon starred in this Oscar nominated adaption of the Louisa May Alcott classic. Join KC actors as we raise funds for a local charitable organization.

More info at: http://www.theblackboxkc.com

Katie Gilchrist, Thank you for being with us on WMM.

10:54 – a song from Portishead’s 1994 debut album, Dummy

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 cavers 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.]

[Calvin Arsenia plays a Helliday Ball EXCTRAVAGANZA on Saturday, Decenber 21, at 8:00pm at The Ship, 1221 Union Ave, KCMO. Info at http://www.calvinarsenia.com]

11:00 – Station ID

Flight Attendant – “KC Hot Mess”
from: Under The Powerlines / Flight Attendant Band / November 15, 2024
[Flight Attendant lead singer songwriter, Karalyne Winegarner wrote to me directly letting me know that she was from Kansas City and is now based in Nashville, TN as the front woman for the band. She wrote to me saying “KC Hot Mess” is about knowing who you are and being comfortable with that – it’s also her “coming out,” song as her first girl friend, Katie Pruitt, is featured as the guitar player. Flight Attendant’s previous singles, “Therapy Couch,” and “Anime,” have both received rotation on KC stations, 90.9 The Bridge and KKFI 90.1FM – and now she’d love to see her hometown title track “KC Hot Mess,” get some love. Karalyne continued writing: “We have yet to receive any sort of press from Kansas City – despite being on the local radio and having sold out shows from Austin, TX, to Nashville,TN and even Munich Germany…. our band is still looking to make a dent in our hometown.” // Flight Attendant played the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, Sat, Aug. 24. In August we played Flight Attendant’s single: “Dreamland” which had been their set opener for the last few tours, so the band made if their first single from their EP, “Powerlines” to be released October 11, 2024.This new single follows the band’s earlier single: “Therapy Couch” released June 23, 2023. “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.]

11:05 – Interview with Karalyne Winegarner

Karalyne Winegarner is 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. Glide Magazine says that lead singer Karalyne, “Commands your attention like Freddie Mercury working the crowd in an arena.” 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 Winegarner on lead vocals & keyboard,
Vinny Maniscalco on vocals & guitar,
Nikki Christie on vocals & viola,
Derek Sprague on drums,
Peyton Rodeffer on vocals & bass.

The band 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.

11:12

Flight Attendant – “Therapy Couch (Radio Edit)”
from: “Therapy Couch (Radio Edit)” / Flight Attendant / June 23, 2023
[“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]

[Flight Attendant played Boulevardia, Friday, June 14, at 9:30 PM on Holladay Hill Stage.]

11:14 – More Interview with Karalyne Winegarner

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. Glide Magazine says that lead singer Karalyne, “Commands your attention like Freddie Mercury working the crowd in an arena.” Their eagerly awaited sophomore album, Under The Powerlines, \will be released on November 15. 2024.

Karalyne Winegarner, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

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.

“Flight Attendant delivers an experience.” – Rolling Stone

Often hailed as a “sonic unicorn” in Nashville’s bustling music scene, Flight Attendant energizes listeners with their infectious power-pop hooks and dynamic performances.

This Nashville-based fivesome—Karalyne Winegarner (Lead Vocals, Keys), Vinny Maniscalco (Vocals, Guitar), Nikki Christie (Vocals, Viola), Derek Sprague (Drums), and Peyton Rodeffer (Vocals, Bass)—meld their passions for music (and fine wine) into a distinctive sound.

Influenced by bands like Caroline Polachek, Florence and the Machine, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Harry Styles, Flight Attendant’s live performances continue to captivate audiences:

Glide Magazine says that lead singer Karalyne, “Commands your attention like Freddie Mercury working the crowd in an arena.”

Their eagerly awaited sophomore album, Under The Powerlines, produced by Swedish collaborator Anders Flemming, will be released on November 15. 2024.

Flight Attendant are headlining a Fall US Tour, and a European Spring Tour. More info at: http://www.flightattendantband.com

Karalyne Winegarner, Thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Their eagerly awaited sophomore album, Under The Powerlines, produced by Swedish collaborator Anders Flemming, will be released on November 15. 2024.

11:22

Flight Attendant – “Dreamland”
from: “Dreamland” – Single / Flight Attendant / August 9, 2024
[“Dreamland” has been our set opener for the last few tours, so it only felt right to make it our album opener! Our first single from forthcoming album, “Under the Powerlines.” Full album drops on October 11th.This new single follows the band’s earlier single: “Therapy Couch” released June 23, 2023. “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]

[Flight Attendant played the 20th Annual Crossroads Music Fest, Sat, Aug. 24, at 9:15 PM on the Livestock Exchange – From The Earth / Illicit Stage, 1600 Genessee St. w/ Western Cuts, Rachel Maxann, Jamogi, Back Alley Brass Band, Keo & Them, KC March Falcons and KC Marching Cobras.]

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.]

11:29 – Underwriting

11:31 – Interview with Kate Hall and Destiny Atkinson

Kate Hall is General Manager, of Afterword Tavern and Shelves. She Grew up in Southern California. Kate moved to northwest Missouri in 2004 and became a Northwest Missouri English graduate in 2009. Kate moved to Kansas City in 2014 and worked in the industry of manufacturing food. Kate went to Afterword for a fun second job in 2022. She started as a barback, then a bartender. When her General Manager decided to transition Kate left her corporate management job to manage Afterword.

Destiny Atkinson is Assistant Manager of Afterword Tavern and Shelves. She is 23 and loves reading and any time she is off work you can find her snuggled up with her cat or dog reading a book or hanging out with her fiance. Destiny has been at Afterword a little over two years now. She writes that “it feels like coming home. The environment as a guest or as a staff member is cozy, welcoming, and fun. I’ve always enjoyed mixing drinks so when I became a bar manager this felt like the perfect place. I mean, books and booze? There’s nothing better. I love being at a place where I can be fully creative and mentor others who enjoy it as well.}

Afterword Tavern and Shelves open Tuesdays through Saturdays at 1834 Grand Boulevard, KCMO.

Afterword Tavern & Shelves is hosting an Open Mic Night Monday, November 11, 2024 6:30 to 8:30pm. For more information you can visit: http://www.afterwordkc.com

Afterword Tavern & Shelves is hosting a Book Fair, December 7, 2024 12:00pm to 6:00pm. For more information you can visit: http://www.afterwordkc.com

Kate Hall and Destiny Atkinson thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Afterword Tavern and Shelves open Tuesdays through Saturdays at 1834 Grand Boulevard, KCMO.

Afterword Tavern & Shelves write: “A good book has the remarkable ability to connect friends over midnight discussions, or to a garrulous passenger on the streetcar who loves the same writer.

Simple paper pages can inspire a visit to a city or reconnect someone to a time and place of their past.

Books can spark an idea or incite an argument and provide a tranquil escape from the chaotic.

Beer, wine, spirits, and food share this quality. Rather than leave one of ’em out we decided to combine their collective powers under a single roof. Thus, Afterword Tavern & Shelves was born.

While it may be libations and books we’re selling on paper, at a philosophical level we are peddling discovery and the city in which we live. We invite you to walk through our door, and when you depart we hope that you do so having discovered something stirringly novel.

Kate Hall and Destiny Atkinson thanks for being with us on Wednesday MidDay Medley

Afterword Tavern & Shelves is hosting an Open Mic Night Monday, November 11, 2024 6:30 to 8:30pm. For more information you can visit: http://www.afterwordkc.com

Afterword Tavern & Shelves is hosting a Book Fair, December 7, 2024 12:00pm to 6:00pm. For more information you can visit: http://www.afterwordkc.com

11:48

The Cure – “A Fragile Thing (Radio Edit)”
rom: Songs of A Lost World / Fiction/Capitol Records / October 31, 2024
[THE CURE’s long-awaited, critically acclaimed new album, SONGS OF A LOST WORLD, their first new release in 16 years, is out now via Fiction/Capitol Records. // The band will be performed their only scheduled show of the year on Nov. 1, at Troxy in London, which was live streamed on The Cure’s YouTube page Show Of A Lost World The Cure Live At Troxy. // BBC2 aired a special evening of Cure programming to celebrate the release of SONGS OF A LOST WORLD. // Initially formed in 1978, The Cure has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, headlined the Glastonbury festival four times and been inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2019. They are considered to be one of the most influential bands to ever come out of the UK. // SONGS OF A LOST WORLD was written and arranged by Robert Smith, produced and mixed by Robert Smith & Paul Corkett and performed by The Cure – Robert Smith: Voice / guitar / 6string bass / keyboard, Simon Gallup: Bass, Jason Cooper: Drums / percussion, Roger O’Donnell: Keyboard, Reeves Gabrels: Guitar. The album was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales. // Robert Smith created the sleeve concept, and Andy Vella, a long-time Cure collaborator, handled the album’s art and design. The cover art features ‘Bagatelle’, a 1975 sculpture by Janez Pirnat. // THE CURE – SONGS OF A LOST WORLD https://thecure.lnk.to/SongsOfALostWorld More info at: http://www.thecure.com]

Leon Bridges – “Laredo”
from: Leon / Columbia / October 4,, 2024
[Leon is the fourth studio album by American singer Leon Bridges. It was released on October 4, 2024, by Columbia Records. Centered around his upbringing in Fort Worth, Texas, he primarily recorded the album in Mexico City and worked with producers Ian Fitchuk and Daniel Tashian. The album was preceded by three singles: “Peaceful Place”, “Laredo”, and “That’s What I Love”. It received generally positive reviews from music critics. // Leon Bridges wrote the album about his experience growing up in Fort Worth, Texas, whose music scene he credited with inspiring the folk and country music influences on the album. Several songs on Leon were written during the production of his 2021 album Gold-Diggers Sound. He spent “almost five years” working on the album in Los Angeles and Nashville before moving production to Mexico City,[4] where he spent the last few months of 2023 recording the album at El Desierto studio.[6] During a session in Los Angeles, Bridges began streaming on Instagram Live and was contacted by American musician John Mayer, who invited Bridges to his studio where they collaborated on “When a Man Cries”. // Bridges cited Roy C and Van Morrison (specifically his 1968 album Astral Weeks) as influences on the album’s sound and lyricism. // Leon received generally positive reviews from music critics. At Metacritic, which assigns a normalized rating out of 100 to reviews from mainstream critics, the album received an average score of 79, based on eight reviews. // Writing for Uncut, Stephen Deusner called Bridges an “ambitious, yet idiosyncratic artist” and praised the lyricism and storytelling on the album, specifically on “Panther City”.[19] Mojo’s Tom Doyle said that “Bridges’ vocal talents continue to shine”, also highlighting “Panther City” for its lyrics and “’70s Isley Brothers-styled” sound // In a review for Pitchfork, Stephen Thomas Erlewine complimented the “loving care that Bridges, [Ian] Fitchuk, and [Daniel Tashian bring to Leon”, but criticized the production and mixing for causing the album to “feel curiously frictionless”. Rolling Stone’s Julyssa Lopez praised the “emotional weight and personal intimacy” of the music, though she found “[s]ome of the album’s more general love songs … less intriguing”.]

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

On The Next Show! On Wednesday, November 13 – we welcome back Brock Wilbur & Nick Spacek of The Pitch and The Annual Pitch “Best Of” Issue. We’ll talk with Brock & Nick about some of the “Headlines” of 2024. And Nick shares his 10 Favorite Musical Releases of 2024. We will also talk with Damron Armstrong of the Kansas City Black Repertory Theatre

Thank you to all who have donated during our two Fall Fund Drive Shows on Wednesday MidDay Medley and our WMM Facebook Fundraiser, we received donations from 46 individuals who donated a total of $3478.00. 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.

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

You can find our playlists at: http://www.wednesdaymiddaymedley.org
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Show #1068

Wednesday MidDay Medley

Wednesdays, 10 – Noon, on 90.1 FM KKFI – Kansas City Community Radio

Tag Archives: reviews

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