It was an honor and privilege to have Nico Novick (pictured) on the show today. Listen in as she explains the mission of the Acme Theatre, its upcoming production (The Curious Incident) and a few of her favorite songs.
The Acme Theatre Co. is a youth-led theater group run for and by young people in 9th to 12th grade, based in Davis. It says its mission is to present plays of excellent literary and artistic quality, while providing opportunities for young people to learn acting, technical theater, and leadership skills through peer and adult mentorship, in an environment of mutual trust, respect, and responsibility.
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Listening Lyrics had a great conversation with Rick Meagher (pictured)! The blend of traditional Irish sounds and personal expression that he brings to his music with One Eyed Reilly is special. It’s always exciting to hear from someone so passionate about their craft, especially in a genre as rich and storied as Irish music. Rick shared some insights into the band's approach to Irish folk in his original compositions.
One Eyed Reilly blends well-crafted original songs with modern Celtic rock, Americana, and wildly energetic, occasionally over-caffeinated versions of traditional Irish classics but even more so the original songs this band generates. Live performances are a whirlwind of Irish-themed originals, with a cheeky sprinkle of covers by Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys, and even the odd bit of Bob Dylan or the Grateful Dead—because why not throw some rootsy rock in with your pint of Guinness? It’s like an Irish pub jam session with a rock 'n' roll attitude—just with more fiddles and less actual eye-patches than you’d expect!
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Didar Singh Khalsa showcases an imaginative flair in his songwriting. Khalsa, a talent from the Davis and Woodland areas who specializes in alternative folk rock, graced us with his presence in the studio today alongside Mike Kahn and Jeff Brook. His music and performance often offer a perspective on the world that highlights the nonsensical or provides profound insight into the human experience.
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Mariam Diakite and Erich Huffaker of Orchestra Gold joined us in the studio (photo by Jeff Shaw) this week, treating us to a live song and some insights into their music.
The word "fusion" is not used in the sound of this amazing Bay Area band. But psychedelic, rock, brass and masterful guitar work does make a wonderful fusion with Malian music.
From its website: "Orchestra Gold's vibrant sound is spearheaded by the dynamic Mariam Diakite, whose raw, hypnotic vocals deliver heartfelt and thought-provoking lyrics in the highly symbolic Bambara language. While paying homage to Malian musical traditions, this fierce new sound thrives with heavy swinging rhythms, a funky fresh brass section, and cosmic guitar licks. With the January 2023 release of their third album, Medicine, this profoundly spiritual and dance-inducing ensemble continues their pursuit of spreading healing and community through the universal gift of music." Mariam also has dance moves. If you're into dancing, check it out.
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Billy Larkin and Eric Jordan join in today for a lively discussion, including AI in Music, Fobfest, KDRT's 20th anniversary, Pete Rose, Cissy Houston, Yolo's 4th Annual Mid-Winter Cabaret July 8th in Winters (an extraordinary evening of pure enchantment, fantastic talent, community, and the joy of giving.)
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NOTE: Between minute 13:10 and 15:30 in this broadcast we had some technical difficulties
Billy Larkin joined me in the studio this week to discuss the power of music. He chose these songs to talk about, and we played snippets from most:
- 'Imagine' (John Lennon) Possibly one of the most important songs ever written. Full stop.
- 'Adagio for Strings' (Samuel Barber) Humanity's guidebook to empathy.
- Beethoven's 7th Symphony [2nd movement] See above and add hope and perseverance.
- 'That's the Way of the World' (Earth, Wind & Fire) When I realized I was happy to be alive.
- 'Music for 18 Musicians' (Steve Reich) Wonder at the possibility of creation.
- 'Blackbird' (Lennon/McCartney) Love=Beauty=Sadness=Joy=Art
From his website: "Billy Larkin is an award-winning pianist/composer who has been bringing his individual brand of musical artistry to audiences for over 40 years. He is a composer and arranger who defies easy categorization and helps define true expression through the collaborative process."
"Music gives the soul to the universe" -- Plato
"Music is the food of love, play on" -- William Shakespeare
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................LISTEN UP...................
Listen Up! It's the KDRT volunteer newsletter that is produced monthly. In it is always a wonderful list of music selections. Below is this month's list of albums: I have selected one song from each. Enjoy the show. The goal is to broaden our ears to what's out there regardless of genre.
New releases keep our air sound fresh and engaging! A little sumpin’ for everyone…
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