Some music for the people
January 3, 2009
Joshua Abrams - Eu Sei
Happy New Year friends! Hope your holidays were spent relaxing among family and friends. Also hope that 2009 is a happy and healthy year for you.
Have a mix for you from the decks of Joshua Abrams. Without having done the math, I'd say it's about 95% Brazilian music. Many of the tracks have their origins (if not their outright creation) in Northern Brazil where the Brazil's African roots are most exposed.
I often attempt to write up a little biography for the contributors to Bird & Whale to give some context for the selections of the DJs. Of all the DJs represented on Bird & Whale, Josh's musical career is definitely one of the most difficult to encapsulate. He's a constant in the Improvised/Jazz scene around Chicago, but he performs internationally frequently as well. In addtion to Jazz his own musical output also encompasses Hip Hop, Electronic music, Minimalism, Rock, etc. It's a exercise in futility to try and pull Josh's musical scope under those genre umbrellas that one tends to resort to when trying to describe music. Suffice to say I am delighted to have him represented on Bird & Whale and hope you enjoy his picks.
So my big news is I was invited to do a guest DJ spot on WBEZ's Radio M hosted by Tony Sarabia. I'm so excited! I've never deejayed on the radio, so please wish me luck. Radio M is an international music program that "explores world cultures and people through music and sounds". For those of you who don't live in Chicago you can listen via the internet at http://www.chicagopublicradio.org/ and click the big "Listen Now" button at the top of the page. It's going to be on January 23rd at 9pm CST. I'd really be honored if you listened in.
Last updated on January 3, 2009
December 10, 2008
Nice Finger - John Herndon
I've probably seen John Herndon play drums eighty times. He's a kick ass drummer. He never seems to repeat himself and runs the gamut stylistically. It's always striking to witness the literal and figurative momentum that he produces.
Delighted to share a mix of his with you. It's got soul. The art is embedded into the mp3, but I also posted it here cause it's fucking awesome.
Last updated on December 10, 2008
November 28, 2008
Wayne Montana - DJ Set
Jocelyn Brown - DJ Set
Here are two outstanding DJ sets from the last Bird & Whale Showcase. Many thanks to everybody who performed as well to those who made it out on a pretty rough Tuesday November Chicago night... freezing rain and work the next day are tough obstacles. I really appreciate your presence and making it such a great evening.
I thought the live set by Epstein and Jaytram was really exceptional. In a moment of temporary psychosis, I didn't record their set which just kills me. Some things are best left only to live in memory. On a slight tangent, their set really made me think I need to step up my game when it comes to my own live show. They make electronic music, but it felt so alive and relevant.
I caught a show by Toumani Diabate at the Old Town School of folk music a few weeks ago. Sublime. If you ever get the chance to see him, I'd highly recommend it. Here's some really nice video of a performance he did at Other Music earlier this year. His acknowledgment of our election of Barack Obama made me feel like I had won a marathon. I've always wanted to travel to Mali and his show was definitely an affirmation of what an interesting and deep musical tradition exists there. By the way, if anybody reading this happens to have some suggestions on how to go about doing some "extended" travel to Mali, I'd be delighted to know more. I've thought about volunteering for a non-profit or just taking a guided tour of some sort, but I'm not sure how to start that process. I don't seem to make the time to really explore what it would take to spend some real time there.
Also saw El Guincho again (scoll down to March 27, 2008 entry) a few nights ago. It was good, but I'm afraid it didn't compare to his performance I caught at SXSW. He replaced his wood block and tom drum with various electronic gear. While I certainly appreciate his interest in trying new ideas and techniques, it definitely didn't have the same rawness and power. (Likewise, more notes to self about what it takes to pull off electronic music live.)
Planning on catching Matana Roberts at the Velvet Lounge either tonight or tomorrow. I'd also recommend seeing her perform if you get the chance. There's something sacred about it.
Oh and Baby Allright is playing tonight at the Empty Bottle. When they're "on" it's one of my favorite live shows around.
If you're not up for getting out of the house, check out this mix by Lukid found on Fact Magazine's site. Lukid makes some pretty stellar electronic music, and he's got killer taste in my opinion. Looking forward to hearing his new album when it makes it out and about.
*For those of you looking for Josh's mix, please wait a few days. Josh decided to post another mix he made recently since we experienced some technical difficulty with the crappy turntables at Sonotheque.
Last updated on December 2, 2008
November 6, 2008
Congratulations Barack Obama!!
flyer by epstein and bradshaw
Last updated on November 6, 2008
November 1, 2008
The Diamond Age - Sobriquet
The Diamond Age has assembled another set of angular picks. I'm not sure where they fall or how to summarize. I wish I was a little more adept at describing music. It would make this whole "music blog deal" I got going so much easier. But practice makes perfect, right? Just flex that part of my brain and words will comes out eventually. This mix hits me in a different spot depending on if I'm really focused on it or not. There's a tension to the music if I am paying attention, but it works just as well, maybe even better, if the music falls back in my consciousness. There's a little game there too because it seems like the music dictates that of me. Places itself in different parts of my brain.
I've got some good news and bad news. The good news is there a new Bird & Whale Showcase right around the corner (Nov.11 to be precise) and the line up is killer. Epstein y El Conjunto featuring JAYTRAM from NYC are headlining. I'm a huge fan, and I'm delighted they are going to perform for the showcase. I met Roberto, of Epstein y El Conjunto, in New York a few years back when he let me borrow some needles for a DJ set. Then caught little glimmers of various music and videos here and there. Finally ended up at his myspace page (thanks to The Diamond Age actually) and then realized that I should really start paying attention. This is where I get into trouble describing music again. The irony being the more unique I find the music, the harder it is to describe. Raw, organic, electronic music that nods to Atlanta AND Eduardo Mateo.
Before I forget, the bad news is I'm WAY behind in getting the word out on this show. Please (pretty please!) let some people know. I can't say enough about the caliber of the talent.
Bird & Whale Showcase #4 on November 11th, 2008 @ Sonotheque.
9-2
9:30-10:30 DJ Set by Josh Abrams
10:30-11:30 DJ Set by Wayne Montana
11:30-12:30 Live Set by Epstein y El Conjunto (featuring JAYTRAM)
12:30-1:30 DJ Set by Clerical Error (aka Jocelyn Brown)
Sonotheque
1444 W Chicago Ave
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: (312) 226-7600
http://www.sonotheque.net/
In other news, I'm counting the days till the election comes. I've been following this shit religiously for what feels like like a supereon now. Seems like there's a wierd tension in the air around Chicago... like everyone is holding their breath. I have huge apsirations for an Obama Presidency. I think I might take the time to write down ten things I'd like to see happen in a Obama Presidency. See how my aspirations meet up with reality (assuming he actually wins). It feels silly to even say it at this point but please, please, please vote.
I'm DJing that night at Rodan. It should be a wonderful spot to usher what will hopefully be a new chapter in American history. I'm gonna try and pull together something really unique for my DJ set.
Last updated on November 1, 2008
October 18, 2008
Need Windham - White Overalls
Another autumnal mix from mister Need Windam. Definitely comes at the right time as things turn a little cooler around these parts. A little something to lift the spirits. Need definitely pulls together sounds that are off my radar. A lot of raw, kinda playful jams with a nice attention to detail.
Went up to Madison as forecast last weekend and recorded a new Lobisomem EP. Went really well. Big up to Beau Sorenson for engineering as well as Tall Corn for everything under the sun. I'll keep you all posted as the records actually go through the 29 stages of making it out into the world.
Just finished up my little Tuesday night video projection residency at Rodan with Jeff Parker, John Herndon, and Josh Abrams. Went really well. Many thanks to them for all the amazing music. (As well as Tomeka Reid and Jaimie Branch who sat in one week.) It was a real pleasure to try and put a visual accompaniment to their music.
Last updated on October 18, 2008
September 26, 2008
Damon Locks - The Locked Room
Damon Locks - Zup! Mix
Damon Locks - Zank! Mix
Bird & Whale & Damon. He has been cranking out the mixes. I couldn't keep up.
I really like how Damon has retained that mix tape aesthetic of dropping in found sounds and obscure audio vignettes. Keeps things raw. I lost my touch for that somewhere along the way.
Another thing that occurs to me as I listen to Damon's mixes is I find it strange there is so much musical overlap between Damon's mixes and what comes out of my speakers on a regular basis. It makes me feel like our tastes are this weird byproduct of Chicago that we aren't even aware of. Stuff that seems so obscure will come my way at random, and then two weeks later will be on one of Damon's mixes. There's some musical puppet master somewhere pulling our strings.
Thanks to everybody for making it out to the last Bird & Whale Showcase. Music was outstanding. Big thanks particularly to Frank for making it out from NYC. Really appreciate him sharing his musical finds and knowledge so generously.
I'm doing video projections at Rodan for the next three weeks for Jeff Parker, John Herndon, and Josh Abrams. I'm really happy with the material I've put together for it. Please drop in if you get a second.
I signed my first ever record contract the other day for my ~solo laptop project, Lobisomem, with Tall Corn Records. We're scheduled to put out an EP in late fall/early winter. Please keep and eye out for that. I'm really ecstatic about the material I've been working on. We're headed into the studio in October. (Likewise, another first for me.) Looking forward to hearing the what comes out of that.
Planning on watching the first Presidential Debate tonight. I'm sure Obama will do well, but just thinking of what's at stake is enough to give me an ulcer.
Last updated on September 26, 2008
September 5, 2008
Drew Rydberg - Electronash
I'm really happy to post this compilation. I use the word "compilation" as opposed to "mix" because it's all original music by the wickedly talented Drew Rydberg. Drew is a little bit of a mythical figure in my book. I got to know his music from mix tapes that Matt Leer would make me way back in the day. On almost every tape that Matt would put together, there would be a cut by Drew, and it would always stand out a little bit (despite some very tough competition). Always have a little something that made you listen more intently. I still haven't met Drew, but I'm really honored that he chose Bird & Whale to share some of his music with us.
Are you coming to the Bird & Whale Showcase on Tuesday? Man. it's gonna be good. Gotta get some people out to get that dance floor going though.
Frank Gossner (aka DJ Soulpusher - aka DJ Franc O) spent the last three years in West Africa collecting records. Chicago black belts Rob Sevier and Supreme Court are on the bill as well. All you gotta do is show up and dance.
Frank's gonna be on Tony Sarabia's radio program Radio M around 9 pm Central Time this evening! For those of you who aren't within listening range of WBEZ you can tune in via the the web http://www.wbez.org/ Just click the Listen Now button at the top of the page.
Also, my friend Kumar did a nice interview with Frank about his experience in West Africa. Big thanks to him for putting together such a nice interview.
http://chicagoindependentradioproject.org/spotlight/dj-soulpusher-digging-for-west-african-funk
Time Out did a nice plug as well.
http://www.timeout.com/chicago/events/clubs/175601/minor-figure
Really hope to see you.
Last updated on September 9, 2008
August 22, 2008
Once again, essential flyer design assistance provided by Matt Leer. Thanks!
Last updated on August 22, 2008
August 20, 2008
Kim Ambriz - DJ Set from Sonotheque
Dan Bitney - DJ Set from Sonotheque
Damon Locks - DJ Set from Sonotheque
Greg Dalphond - DJ Set from Sonotheque
If I had to pick a favorite site on the internet, it would be http://www.voodoofunk.blogspot.com. Delighted to report that the proprietor of Voodoo Funk, Frank Gossner, is going to headline the next Bird & Whale Showcase! Frank's been living the last three years in Western Africa collecting records. He's done us a great service by documenting his musical finds and his experiences on his website. Please make a point to check it out. He's amassed one of the most amazing collections I've ever had the pleasure to listen to. Really inspirational.
Two incredible DJs are going to represent Chicago for the Showcase. Rob Sevier and Supreme Court. Rob is one of the founders of the outstanding Numero Group. (Check his mix a little further down the page). Supreme Court is a veteran Chicago DJ. Ironic considering that he looks like he's about 16. He hosts one of the most popular and consistent dance parties in the city on the first Wednesday of month at Danny's.
I put together a new video for Jason Ajemian's group Who Cares How Long You Sink. Once again I used footage shot by Jack Fetzer. Check it.
And last but not least, four new mixes from the last Bird & Whale Showcase! Big thanks to Kim, Dan, Damon and Greg for such a great night of music. Kim was nice enough to type up a playlist (included in the zip file) for you curious souls. She's also deejaying at Danny's tonight so check her set out if you need a mid week reprieve.
Last updated on August 26, 2008
July 18, 2008
Bundy K. Brown - DJ Set from Sonotheque
Bundy K. Brown - DJ Set from Streetside Café
Happy Friday. I've got two mixes for you by Mister Bundy K Brown. One is from his night at the first Bird & Whale Showcase in May and the second is five years old from a DJ set at the Streetside Café. I have a ton of respect for Bundy. He is another represented on this site who has such a strong musical erudition.
Speaking of the Streetside, I'm going to DJ there tonight from midnight to 2 AM. Maybe I'll just play Bundy's set all the way through. Just kidding. Hope you can make it through.
Last updated on July 18, 2008
July 14, 2008
Rob Sevier - Polyphonies
I don't have the words to express how honored and completely floored I am to post this mix.
I've been geeking out on international music for maybe 15 years, but Rob Sevier is on an entirely different plane of existence when it comes to this shit. He has such a fluent knowledge of music. I had never heard any of the records that he put on this mix. Not one. Really inspiring. And all of it was mint condition vinyl. It's also worth noting that he did this mix on the fly ...minus a couple edits here and there. His ear for transitions is so acute.
Rob founded a record label with Tom Lunt, and Ken Shipley. It's called Numero Group. It's one of the best. If you aren't familiar, please make a point to jump into their catalog.
Last updated on July 14, 2008
July 7, 2008
Valuable flyer design assistance provided by Matt Leer.
Last updated on August 19, 2008
June 30, 2008
Damon Locks - Zowee! Mix
First things first. Damon followed up as promised with Zowee! Mix. More joints. More cross pollination. Please take a listen.
Secondy, Damon is going to spin at the Bird & Whale Showcase #2 at Sonotheque on July 8th. Please attend. Here's the skinny on the showcase.
Bird & Whale Showcase #2 on July 8th, 2008 @ Sonotheque.
9-2
DJ sets by:
Miss Frowny 9:30 - 10:30
Dan Bitney 10:30 - 11:30
Damon Locks 11:30 - 12:30
Greg Dalphond 12:30 - 1:30
Along with the Bird & Whale Showcase, I've got a couple of other items on this week's calendar.
I'm DJing tomorrow night (July 1st) at Rodan. I'm also doing a solo laptop show at Heaven on July 5th. I was really happy with the last solo show I did at Heaven, but it wasn't particularly well attended. It would be cool if you could make it out and bring a couple of friends.
Last updated on July 14, 2008
June 17, 2008
The Diamond Age - YOU AND ME AND THE REST OF US
I think the new mix by the Diamond Age, YOU AND ME AND THE REST OF US, is probably his best to date. It holds together remarkably well, especially considering the focus is psychedelic rock. Not the easiest genre with which to put together a cohesive mix.
As I mentioned in my last post, I've got gig a tonight and next Tuesday doing video projections for Jeff Parker's Trio at Rodan. This came about because I mentioned to Selina Trepp (who normally does real time visuals with the group) that the DVD Rodan played in her absence was horrible. She pretty much said, "Well, you think you can do better? I could use a substitute from time to time." And there you have it. Really excited about what I've come up with video-wise and delighted to be doing something on the visual front.
Last updated on June 17, 2008
June 10, 2008
John McEntire - DJ Set from Sonotheque
This is McEntire's DJ set from the Bird and Whale Showcase on May 27th. I'm a huge fan of John's music as well as his engineering work at Soma Studios. It was a real honor to have him to come through, and I am delighted to be able to host his mix on the website. John was also nice enough to write up a playlist, so (as always) grab the zip file if you're interested in the artists' info for the individual tracks.
I'm going to do some video projections for Jeff Parker's Trio at Rodan the next two Tuesdays since Selina Trepp is out of town. Drop in.
Last updated on June 11, 2008
June 3, 2008
Brad Loving - Bird and Whale 004
Man, I really obsessed over this mix. Not sure why. I kinda wanted to take it up a notch. Also, I noticed the other day that I hadn't posted a mix of my own in six months... which is insane. I don't know where the time goes. But yeah, if I'm only going to post a mix every six months it better be fucking great.
If you look over to the right, you'll notice my Events calendar has a few more entries than normal. Please come through Rodan tonight, or Heaven on Saturday. Always nice to see some friendly faces.
Last updated on June 3, 2008
May 27, 2008
Damon Locks - Moments Mix
I was reading the Jazz issue of Stop Smiling magazine this weekend. Was pleasantly surprised to see Damon Locks name on the top of a few of the articles. Stop Smiling is a real pleasure to read. If you're not familiar, I highly recommend checking it out.
I posted a new mix by the prolific Damon Locks.
In Damon's words:
I was trying to work on my new mix ZOWEE! But all the tunes I wanted to include just weren't adding up to a ZOWEE! So instead of changing the trajectory of the songs I decided to name it something different. I guess I was attracted to introspective tunes when pulling this mix. This compilation is great for walking around (headphones) or a "cool down" from a busy day (on the coach), lying around in bed and of course...thinking about your life.
One last plug for the Bird & Whale showcase tonight. There was a little write up in New City. Pretty cool.
It should be a nice night of music. Hope you can make it out.
Last updated on May 27, 2008
May 14, 2008
Jason Reimer - NightDay Mix
Delighted to share another mix with you by Jason Reimer. This theory is still a work in progress, but I think what sets Jason's mixes apart is they ride a nice line between obscurity and accessibility. On the first listen you pretty much instantly think, "I have no idea who this is, but I really, really want to know..." That still doesn't quite do justice to how nice his track selection is, but you should probably just take a listen.
I've been following the “Event Promoters” Ordinance deal hear in Chicago pretty closely the last couple of days. It was pretty outstanding to watch the reaction of the music/theater community. A vote on the legislation has been postponed due to said reaction. I happened to catch 47th Ward Alderman, Eugene Schulter, on Chicago Public Radio's Eight Forty-Eight this evening talking about the legislation. In my opinion, he doesn't really answer any of the questions posed to him, but take a listen for yourself. Hopefully, the legislation will just die. More than likely it will come back up in a month or so. Please keep an eye out. I fear it could be absolutely crippling for the underground music scene in Chicago.
I'm starting a regular DJ gig at the Streetside Café this Friday. I'll be doing a 10 to midnight set every third Friday followed by Michael Lacy (who has held down that night for ages). Should be a ball.
Gearing up in a big way for the Bird and Whale Showcase. For those of you who I haven't already told about it ad nauseam, the Empty Bottle asked if I would be interested in curating a night at Sonotheque on May 27th. Really delighted about the line up. It should be an outstanding night of music. Please tell your friends. The very gracious and talented Mike Perrone designed a flyer for the occasion.
Last updated on May 17, 2008
April 11, 2008
Damon Locks - Zing! Mix
Damon Locks - Zoink! Mix
Damon added two more mixes to what is now revealed as a series of mixes. As I listen, patterns start to form. It's always pretty interesting to trace the lines that weave the music together in a solid mix, but with Damon's selections those lines seem more distinct. I'm not sure if it's intentional or not but, I find myself being really aware of the era and cultures that the various music stemmed out of. It very well be that Damon's simply putting together music that he enjoys, but it seems like there is a larger narrative at work.
I've got some good news. I got the line up locked in for the Bird & Whale Showcase on May 27th @ Sonotheque here in Chicago. I'm ecstatic about it.
DJ sets by:
Bundy K Brown 9:30-10:30
Caural 10:30-11:30
John McEntire 11:30-12:30
DJ Alo 12:30-1:30
It promises to be a really amazing night of music. oh, and it's free!
Last updated on April 18, 2008
March 27, 2008
DJ Joseph - Bad Credit in Babylon
In Joe's own words:
DJ Joseph blows the dust off the wax crate and presents...
Mash Up the Speakerbox Vol 3: Bad Credit In Babylon
Slow burning dub, roots vibrations and dancehall sensations featuring Banzai Republic, Stereotyp, 33hz, Antony Johnson, Barrington Levy, Earth & Stone, In Crowd, Peter Tosh, Al Brown, Hopeton Lewis, Lee Perry, Treasure Dub, Sugar Minott, Sister Nancy, Yami Bold, Dawn Penn, Beres Hammond and Wayne Wonder. Toasted with discretion to stimulate your recession. Click dem earbuds to eleven, give thanks and praise to heaven. Man called Bird and Whale bringing you the tings make you wanna set sail. Watch it!
There you have it. Real cool to get a mix from the formidable DJ Joseph. We've been trading mix tapes for probably 15 years so it's really cool that this tradition continues.
Made it down to SXSW for some sunshine and reunions. It was a good time. On the music front, my favorite thing I saw was probably El Guincho. Bear in Heaven was a close second. Atlas Sound made a nice soundtrack to the incredible amount of cold medicine that I consumed.
Also went and saw The Boredoms last night. Awe inspiring.
Exciting news: The Empty Bottle asked me to host a Bird and Whale Showcase at Sonotheque in May. I'll let you all know as things solidify. Really geeked to try and put together an evening of solid music.
Last updated on March 27, 2008
February 23, 2008
Damon Locks - Zam Mix
I got a reply to an email I sent out a little while back from Tania Bowers saying something along the lines of 'You should ask Damon Locks to do a mix. He makes great mixes.' I trust Tania's tastes and Damon plays in one of my favorite Chicago bands, The Eternals, so I followed up on Tania's suggestion.
Those of you who know The Eternals won't be surprised to find out that Damon killed it -- covering tons of musical ground in 26 selections. For those of you who don't know The Eternals, you should make a point to check them out. I'm not quite sure how to try and encapsulate what they do. They pull from a lot of different influences, but do so in a really articulate and genuine way. Speaking from personal experience, it's one thing to listen to a wide spectrum of music all day long, however it's an entirely different deal to incorporate elements from those influences into your own music in a meaningful way. I think that's where The Eternals offer something unique. After that process, their music somehow is totally cohesive and solid. Really cool to have Damon share some of those influnces with us.
Last updated on February 25, 2008
February 16, 2008
The Diamond Age - The Emerald Curse
This life can be taxing. I don't know whether we make art despite those difficulties or because of them. I guess it's a cocktail of the two.
Matt Leer (aka The Diamond Age) covered the entirety of an album called Flaming Tunes by Gareth Williams and Mary Currie. I'm delighted that he offered to post it on Bird and Whale. It's really gratifying to post something more personal. Matt spent a lot of late, late nights in front of his four-track, and the results are outstanding. He also designed and included a full set of art for those of us who are still attracted to the tactile.
For more information about Flaming Tunes or to hear some of the original tracks, please check http://www.myspace.com/gosbo37. If the name Gareth Williams happens to ring a bell in that encyclopedia-of-rock brain of yours, it's probably because he was a member of the seminal rock band This Heat. If you happen to be unfamiliar, I highly recommend tracking their stuff down.
Otherwise not too much to report from Chicago. Been geeking out pretty hard on my own music, and making a point to try and play indoor soccer three days a week. Also been following the Presidential results like a bookie on speed. All jokes aside, if you happen to live in Texas, would you please take some time to really investigate the candidacy of Obama? I have a hunch that if Obama can pull off a win in Texas, that will seal the deal. I think this series of videos really articulates his vision. Delighted to think that we might have someone I really genuinly respect leading our country.
Last updated on February 19, 2008
January 11, 2008
Jason Reimer - Feast and Famine
Man, we're on a little bit of roll. I don't want to jinx something here, but Jason Reimer's mix might be the best one on the site so far. Big thanks to him for sharing with us.
I made my first trip to Out of the Past Records here in Chicago this weekend to try and pick up some jams for my dj gig at the Streetside tonight. It was amazing. I couldn't believe I've lived in Chicago for 9 years and never been to this joint. Thousands and thousands of records. I was so blown away it inspired me to finish my Google map of Chicago record stores. If I missed someplace you think has some really solid music, please let me know. (Just click on the map to be forwarded over to the interactive version of the map.)
Last updated on January 11, 2008
January 3, 2008
Daniel Huffman - Frogboy DJ Mix
Kate Simko - Philly 7-14-07
Happy New Year! Hope 2008 is a good one for you. At the moment, I'm watching Barack Obama speak on the television after his victory in the Iowa caucuses. 2008 is starting out really well! I'm a huge Obama fan. Delighted to think what changes he may bring if he were to win the Presidency.
I used to curate a music series here in Chicago with my buddy Raichiro Iijima at the old venue 3030. It was called Impetus Concert Series. The idea behind it was that we'd get artists to submit unreleased music and give it out on complimentry CDRs the night they would perform. It was super fun, and I was really proud of the shows we put together.
I never really thought about there being a connection between what I've done on Bird & Whale and what Rai and I did with the Impetus Concert Series until recently. But, once again, I find myself trying to pull together music. Of course this time it's on the web as opposed to an actual venue. I'm afraid there's still a lot of bugging my friends to either produce or just come and listen. The association to Impetus seems particularly appropriate with the posting of these two mixes. Daniel and Kate's mixes are very different, but it's just the sort of juxtaposition that I adore in music. They really compliment one another well and make you more aware of how each approach the music they chose and music in general.
Daniel Huffman (aka Frogboy) is an old friend of mine from Texas. We lived together in Denton and went to art school together back in the day. He's the one that really opened my ears to a broader range of music, and I blame him for the total obsession that followed. It didn't feel right to have a collection of mixes without Mr. Huffman on board so I'm really happy he was able to put together a mix. Also to give credit where it's due and regress ever so slightly, I should also mention that the premise of the Impetus Concert Series (to give out CDRs the night of the show) was Daniel's idea. Daniel has played in a ton of different bands over the years. You can hear his solo project, Frogboy, here.
Kate Simko is a super talented and prolific producer and DJ from Chicago. Delighted to have her talents represented here on the site. She travels all over world with her music. Each trip to Berlin or Santiago makes me more envious. Her DJ set is a live recording she did in Philly a few months ago. Its orbit is all electronic. To hear more of her music please visit her site http://katesimko.com/.
I didn't get a chance to break the mixes into individual mp3's but the zip files do include playlists & artwork. I hope you enjoy the music and thanks for dropping in.
Last updated on January 4, 2008
December 10, 2007
The Diamond Age - (an hour and five)
Hey Internet. For the record: The Diamond Age = Mix Master Machine. An inspiration to us all. He did this mix live which is what we all should be doing. It's more rock infused than most of other mixes up here. Check it out.
It's getting to be cold in Chicago. I don't like it one bit. The only good thing about winter is clementines are in season. Oh and I can wear hats, which kinda keeps my hair in check. I guess cold weather also gives me an excuse to stay in and work on music. Still don't like it.
If you happen to be in Chicago and like reggae (and really, who doesn't like reggae?) may I suggest going to Zakopane this Friday (12-14-07). It's at 1734 W. Division. Most High and Moa Anbessa will be bringing their crates. As you may have gathered from the name, Zakopane is a Polish bar. I have no idea why Polish bars and reggae go together so well, but you're just gonna have to trust me on this one.
Last updated on December 11, 2007
November 18, 2007
Brad Loving - Bird and Whale 003
Another new mix for you by yours truly. Think it turned out really well. It would be nice to be able to craft a little introduction that would encourage you to listen. Maybe let you know why I chose a few of the tracks and give a nod to some of the musicians, but that's a tall order at this hour. Maybe I'll edit this post tomorrow and come up with something a little more better.
My old friend, John Matthews, just did a hefty redesign this website from the ground up with a whole lot of php. Things are looking a lot nicer and a lot smarter. Big up to Mr. Matthews for endless hours coding.
Made it Brooklyn for a NY second to see my buddies Jon and Emily tie the knot. Hung out with three of the contributors on this website and met some real nice folks. It was a really good time.
So many old friends have been rolling through Chicago this fall. It's been super fun catching up with everybody. Hoping to spend my Thanksgiving with a big plate of Ableton Live and work on some new Lobisomem music. Keep an eye out for the aftermath of that.
I just (dec. 11) got around to putting some art together for this mix. you can just grab it here if you've already grabbed the mix but don't have the art. I went back and embedded it in the mp3s so if you're just grabbing the mix now don't worrry about it.
Last updated on December 10, 2007
October 5, 2007
Need Windham - Other's Autumn Mix
Man, man...man. I got a honed mix for you from Mr. Need Thomas Windham. Said mix contains lots of 70's Brazilian jams. And pretty much a fuck-ton of quality stuff I'd never heard before. If you need to track him down, you may be able to find him at http://radiocoworker.com/.
Outside of posting this mix, I feel like a lot of shit going on, but I guess none of it is really ready for prime time yet. So I'll just keep my trap shut. Oh, I did post four new tracks to myspace.com/lobisomem . I think they are alright. Check 'em out if you get a second.
Last updated on November 4, 2007
August 23, 2007
Paul Duncan - 7308 ft. Mix
Some new blood up in here. Paul Duncan kindly put together a mix for Bird and Whale. Paul and I met when he was in town recording his new album "Above the Trees" at Soma. Actually, strike that. I think we may have met briefly in a bar in Brooklyn before that. Anyway, the mix is super good. Lots of ground covered and it's still solid as hell. I think Paul may be touring around Texas pretty soon. If you happen to be in that part of the world, go check him out.
Not much else to report around these parts. I'm getting my wisdom teeth taken out tomorrow. If I weren't, I would go catch the Bumps DJ set at Sonotheque w/ John McEntire, Dan Bitney, and John Herndon tomorrow night. It's part of the Stones Throw Residency there @ Sonotheque. I would give my right nut (figuratively speaking), if MF Doom would come and do a MC set there.
I recently got turned on to www.last.fm . Pretty cool way to get turned on to new music. To take advantage of most of the stuff, you need to create a profile. My profile is /bradshaw_out/ if you would like to see what I've been listening to. Maybe we could be friends?!
Last updated on October 28, 2007
July 24, 2007
Brad Loving - Bird and Whale 002
Ok. Here's my second Bird and Whale mix. I've been getting into music 70's music from Angola a lot lately. It's a pretty obscure thing to be interested in, but yeah I'm a believer. The usual suspects (Jamaican, Brazilian, electronic, etc.) are also present.
The mp3 file is just one long file which you may stream directly from the website or download if you wish. The zip file is the exact same mix divided up into the individual tracks. Each track contains the artist information as well as the song title which should load up in iTunes. The zip file also includes some quick cover art by the very talented Matt Leer.
I just reuploaded my old Brazilian Mix over in the Archives section. I noticed that my iTunes was screwed up and left out all the meta data (artist name, track name, etc.) from the mp3's so I fixed that. Also I went ahead and made a long mp3 of that mix so folks could stream it from the site if they felt like it.
Hope you enjoy the music. Please spread the word if you do.
Last updated on October 28, 2007
June 7, 2007
The Diamond Age - Is Dead
Holy shit. The Diamond Age kicked out another one. I think its his best yet. Some serious thought put into the choice of tracks and transitions. Setting the bar high for the rest of us. Man, I gotta get my act together and put together another mix. By the way, the zip file is broken up into 4 parts and also includes a playlist.
Made it too NYC last weekend in support of Who Cares How Long You Sink. I went to about 8 record stores as well as the American Museum of Natural History. I love that joint. Good times.
Last updated on October 28, 2007
May 27, 2007
Jeff Parker - jp mix
Jon Bless - Natural Selections Vol. 1
Hey everybody. Got two killer mixes by the super talented Jeff Parker and Jon Bless for you. I'm not gonna try and talk too much about them or their selections, but both these guys have had a huge influence on me musically. Please take a listen. The zip file of Jeff's mix includes a playlist.
By the way, sorry for the long break. I was really determined to try and get this music page looking a little nicer and to make it easier to use before I posted any more stuff up here. I kinda felt like I was doing a disservice to the music otherwise. Of course, the catch was it was taking me forever to actually sit down and work on stuff. Both Jon and Jeff got their mixes to me a while ago. My apologies to them to the slow turn around. With that said, I'm pretty damn stoked about getting this headed in the right direction and looking forward to the mixes that are yet to come. Big thanks to John Matthews for the endless hours of web coding and advice.
Last updated on October 28, 2007
April 1, 2007
The Diamond Age - nocturnes
Erik Westra - It's Getting Late Vol. 1
Two mixes for you all by The Diamond Age and Erik Westra. Both zip files include a playlist of the tracks. The Diamond Age totally gets a big gold star by his name for knocking out a second mix for Bird and Whale. (For those of you haven't been here before the first mix is a little further down the page.) Mr. Westra's mix is one mix in 4 "movements" with a total of 17 tracks.
I'm a little hesitant to post both of these at the same time fearing that one or the other won't get the attention it deserves. On the other hand it's kinda cool because Mr. Leer and Mr. Westra kinda remind me of one another despite having never met. And they both put a Jesu track in their mix so that got to mean something, right?
Otherwise, lots and lots of music these days passing through my brain. Went and saw Battles and OOIOO. Both shows were at the 'bottle and both were super good. This track made me hallucinate at the Battles show. Also did video projections at Heaven with Who Cares Long You Sink which turned out real well. Lots of nice feedback from folks. Been picking up lots of good music lately too so birdandwhale 002 mix shouldn't be too far off.
Last updated on October 28, 2007
February 26, 2007
Brad Loving - Bird and Whale 001
Man the weather is miserable here in Chicago. I love Chicago, but this shit gets old. I made it out to LA last weekend to visit my old buddy Ryan. It was nice out there. Ryan is living the dream. Check out his website if you get a second.
Here's my first mix I made expressly for Bird and Whale. It bounced around in my head and on my laptop for a little while. A trip to Amoeba and Turntable Lab in LA help me put the finishing touches on this bad boy. Not sure if introductions are necessary. I guess it's more of the same as far as what music made the cut: African, Jamaican, and Brazilian music for the most part. I put it into two different formats. The first is just one long mp3. With this one you can listen to it straight from the website or drop the entire thing on your iPod or whatever. The zip file is the same mix divided up into the 19 individual tracks with artist and track information that you can throw into iTunes (although I think my iTunes screwed up and didn't include the track info). Hope you enjoy it.
Last updated on October 28, 2007
February 12, 2007
John Herndon - Selections! by ol' Herndong
I kinda feel like this whole idea of mine to post DJ sets by friends might actually work out. Here's a killer mix by my friend John Herndon from Danny's Tavern the other night. The mix is 3 hours long! Big thanks to John for letting me record and ignoring me while I was climbing around the DJ booth. Here's a link to the flyer from the show you can throw into iTunes. Words are kinda failing me here so I'll just quit typing.
Last updated on October 28, 2007
January 21, 2007
The Diamond Age - No Love Lost Mix
A mix by The Diamond Age to celebrate the inauguration of Bird and Whale. It's entitled "No Love Lost Mix". The Diamond Age was the first to answer the call by Bird and Whale to put together a mix. For that I am eternally grateful. (People keep on complimenting me on my "No Love Lost Mix". This mix is not by me. It's by The Diamond Age.
Last updated on October 28, 2007
