Heartshape Stargate

Dolphin - Sunrooms EP & more...

2012-01-16T04:16:00.001-08:00

In honor of today's MLK Holiday Celebration and Dolphin's new release with Bamalovessoul.com - Wardolphin.com Proudly Presents - the Sunrooms EP. Stop by Bamalovessoul.com today for the free digital release - then return to here to buy the mixed/tracked version. Starting today we proudly present Sunrooms and the Sunroom Package which includes: The Sunrooms EP Mixed by Dolphin

Dolphin - "The Optimum High EP" Mixed by Dolphin

Dolphin - "The MonoVsStereo EP" Mixed and Mastered by Earl Blaize (The Anti-Pop Consortium)

Treats: Dolphin - "Airsounds for Libras" (We Have Magik Minds EP/Fader Magazine 903 Suite) Mixed by Ge-ology Dolphin - "War Outside Our Bedroom" Video Directed by Miguel Sabogal Dolphin - "Ovni" Video Directed by Miguel Sabogal

All for $7. Buy Here: Buy Now Enjoy and we thank you for your support! Wardolphin.com Hal5000

Wardolphin - Mixcloud

2012-01-08T19:26:00.001-08:00

Wardolphin_com's Cloudcasts on Mixcloud

Wardolphin.com - Phone App (For Android/Iphones/Ipads etc)

2011-12-12T11:51:00.000-08:00

Having a hard time keeping up with Dolphin? Try downloading his free Wardolphin.com Phone APP.

Streaming Videos
Streaming Mp3s/Albums
Photos
Facebook
Soundcloud
Wardolphin.com
Wardolphin.com/Blogspot
Updates and all things Dolphin/OA/BlackSeka/Dolphin & The Airmath.

Please note this works regardless of the country you are in, this works for Iphones/Androids/Ipads/WebBrowsers/& all Smartphones. It's free and takes up very little space. That being said - Wardolphin.com's Phone APP I.

Just copy and paste this link below and either send it directly to your phone to download or by e-mail
http://wardolphin.mobapp.at/

Or just scan below:

Bamalovessoul.com - Dolphin - "Sunrooms"

2011-12-06T08:42:00.000-08:00

Great quick piece on a fantastic EP. Sunrooms has been serving as a personal favorite for a while now. The mix and mastered version is totally blowing my mind. Completely shows you how talented Dolphin is as a composer, writer, singer, and all around musician. - Hal5000

http://bamalovesoul.com/2011/11/18/dolphin-sunrooms-ep-2/

Morpheus Soul Show - Dolphin (Optimum High)

2011-12-06T08:37:00.001-08:00

Peace - been a while but I wanted to bring you to speed on what's going down. A great show out of London the Morpheus Soul Show just ran a great version of Dolphin's "Optimum High" single from the Optimum High EP. Tune in, great music, great selections, dope ass show. The Morpheus Soul Show.

http://themorpheussoulshow.blogspot.com/2011/12/pod-cast-track-listing-morpheus-soul.html

Wardolphin - Soundcloud

2011-10-24T09:24:00.001-07:00

Latest tracks by Wardolphin.com

Wardolphin.com Presents - The Free Wardolphin Mobile Phone App

2011-10-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

Introducing Wardolphin.com's first Phone App. The easiest way to capture all of Wardolphin.com's various social pages, TV channels, interviews, videos, performances, and blog updates from Dolphin/OA/Black Seka. Easy to install and user friendly to all Android, Iphone, Ipad, and Smart Phone users. Also able to be added to your cpu browser, it's a great way to track Wardolphin.com beyond the site.

Please note:
The App will be available in the Android and Iphone App Markets. Also make aware that most of the available features are not activated yet - as most users are merely using the Soundcloud and Facebook connections for now. However as the app is being updated and upgraded on our end, your downloaded App Icon will update automatically. It's safe to download and easy to use and it's free!

Thank you for your support from Wardolphin.com!

It's simple!

Just copy this link and go here:
http://wardolphin.mobapp.at/

Dolphin - Nero Pt. 1 & Pt. 2 (The Orion EP)

2011-10-05T19:44:00.001-07:00

Dolphin - NeroPt. 1-Welcome To My Spaceship/Nero Pt.2-Phoenix Levels by Wardolphin_Com on Mixcloud

WardolphinTV

2011-10-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

Dolphin - Optimum High EP

2011-10-02T22:35:00.000-07:00

Dolphin - Optimum High EP by Wardolphin_Com on Mixcloud

OA - The Octagon

2011-09-13T12:36:00.000-07:00

OA - The Octagon (BlueRaccoon.FM Radio Special Cyprus Greece) by Wardolphin_Com on Mixcloud

1Hour Radio Special - BlueRaccoon.FM
OA "The Octagon"

Guests include:
Dolphin/OA
High Priest of the AntiPop Consortium
Spankrock
Koala
JSands of the Lone Catalysts
ISR feat Proficient/Frank Silver (Silverado)
Bassee
Dj Wool

Meet "Ovni" Actress - The Amazing Marili Kateri

2011-08-23T09:53:00.001-07:00

"It's not too often I come across someone with passion, work ethic, talent, and beauty all combined. We were beyond lucky to have her for the "Ovni" shoot, she was the perfect choice. The video wouldn't have worked any other way - we were very fortunate." - Dolphin

Where are you from and do you think that affected your desire to become a performer?

I come from a military life background and been to and seen a lot of places and things, so my roots are nowhere specific yet everywhere at the same time. My nationality is Puerto Rican and growing up I had a lot of music around me, both native and not. That's how I've come to love and appreciate all kinds of music and got the dancing bug; from listening to the rhythms and watching others dance. I started off dancing which then swayed into acting. A natural transition I thought, being that when I was younger I would watch all kinds of soap operas with my mother, and update all the other moms in the neighborhood about the latest episode in a dramatic fashion. I was 5.

How would you describe yourself (actress, performer, entertainer, artist, dancer, musician?)

An entertainer. I think it encapsulates all the above, besides musician in my case. I dont sing or do anything with music besides dance. Up to this point, most of my trainings have been focused primarily in dance and acting. But I'm pretty sure it wont stop there...I have a fascination with martial arts. Capoeira, mostly. I guess its because it is a form of dance maybe? Just on a whole other level.

Have you formally studied or is it just natural intuition?

Both. I think as an entertainer you have this innate ability to do the interests in which you pursue. Meaning, its already in you. Everyone has that spark; honing it by training is where you master the light of it.

Give us some background on your work (how you got started, where you are now/ what you have coming up)?

I met my now manager over 10 years ago when I was dancing backup for a local singer. Once I told her I wanted to try acting and had had some training, she started submitting me. Some of my principal work would include commercials such as Yuengling Beer, and Maryland Lottery, several industrial films with Marriott Hotels Inc, Time Warner, SAI GLOBAL, and Department of Contract Management Agency. For film Ive worked on The Last Kung Fu Monk, Step Up 2 The Streets, and recently have a film called Zombie Doomsday out now which you can get on Amazon.com. I also have another film called "Senior Cut Day" which i play a dual role, coming out later on this year as well as another film called "2012: Seeking Closure" directed by my dear friend Kevin Tan, which comes out next year. Coming up in the fall Ill be training in the Suzuki Method of Acting for four months, which Im excited about. Theatre is my next venture.

What are some encouraging words you can offer to other actresses/models/dancers in your field?

If you work towards something, all the time and with all your heart, it is inevitable-your going to get it. You cannot work hard towards something and not get it, Ive come to believe. But when you dont get it in the time frame you want, you cant give up. Embrace patience. You have to want this life [acting] everyday and all the time-when you wake up to when you fall asleep to when your dreaming. Through the good the bad and the ugly. What determines whether you get it or not is how much heart you put into it. Simple.

When the video aired, the responses to the film were overwhelmingly strong and positive. One of the most noted questions was, "Who's that actress?!" That being said, any last words for our readers? Also thank you for taking the time to allow Wardolphin.com to interview you!

"I like the notion of reflection because it allows one to look back on their path and see just how much they have grown and how far they have come. The journey is long, but its also the best part."- Marili

If you want to learn more about Marili, here are some additional articles and online locations.

www.Cimatalent.com/marilimejias1
www.MariliOnline.blogspot.com

Watch her in the latest Dolphin Video - "Ovni"
Wardolphin.com

P.I.E.hole Magazine featured artist, May 16 2011http://www.pieholemagazine.com/2011/05/16/artist-p-i-e-marili-mejias/

Featured with Ouidad, The Curl Experts of NYC!http://blog.ouidad.com/index.php/2011/02/14/ouidad-blog-interview-latina-actress-marili-mejias-loves-embraces-natural-curls/

Baltimore Examiner- Actress Marili Mejiashttp://www.examiner.com/indie-film-in-baltimore/actress-marili-mejias-a-producer-s-dream

WardolphinTV Presents: Dolphin - The Love War (30 Mins of Light)

2011-08-05T12:11:00.001-07:00

Dolphin - The Love War from wardolphin on Vimeo.

Featured Videos:

"Missing Objects"
"War Outside Our Bedroom"
"Electric Horsemen"
"Ovni"
"Racing Stripes"

Dolphin - The Digital Bedroom (Wardolphin Mixtape Experience 8)

2011-08-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

Here it is, a new mix of some of my favorites from Dolphin, along with a batch of new songs I never heard. Yes I am a self proclaimed Dolphin head and the timing on this is perfect as I start my vacation today! Stay tuned, Dolphin's new body of work is completed and being mixed. I have already heard four songs from it and I alreeady have four new favorite Dolphin pieces! Rumor has it that he'll be playing really soon with the Airmath on the East Coast - I live out West again but will gladly make the trip just to enjoy my favorite band. With that said, here he is -

Dolphin - The Digital Bedroom (Wardolphin Mixtape Experience 8)

Dolphin - The Digital Bedroom (Wardolphin Mixtape Experience 8) by Wardolphin_Com on Mixcloud

Dolphin - "Ovni" New Vid Dir by Miguel Sabogal

2011-05-19T07:48:00.001-07:00

Dolphin: Swingset Smile (The Short Film)

2011-02-11T07:07:00.000-08:00

This is from a short performance clip "Swingset Smile" (Wardolphin Films) and a TV Doc called "Dolphin: Eyes of Dionysus". Orignially this performance was for my mother who passed away on Sept. 6 2010 due to complications of cancer. Although I have been all around the world, performed with everyone from Mos Def, to The Temptations, to Spankrock she never heard one song from me despite being known for having an extensive catalogue of original recorded music. This film was to be her Mother's Day present and her Medicine. No tearjerkers, I just want everyone to enjoy it and to kiss their mother's one more time. I'll only expose only two songs online "Nomade's Song of Home" (about me living on my own in the streets since I was 16) and "Photographs" (a song about not having any mirrors or pictures in my home, just a photograph of me and my mother - simpler time). Peace, I hope I haven't said too much and "Hi Mommy - I love you".

Dolphin - "Nomade's Song of Home"

Dolphin - "Photographs"

Dolphin "War Outside Our Bedroom" // Directed by Miguel Sabogal

2010-12-17T10:35:00.000-08:00

The team of Dolphin and Film Director Miguel Sabogal just got better. Back to back vids of great songs by Wardolphin and a visual tour de force to match. This video just raised the bar yet again of the work these two are giving to the world. Without holding you any further I present the AMAZING video "War Outside Our Bedroom" by Dolphin - Directed by Miguel Sabogal for Wardolphin Films/PolygonTree.

Peace and Happy Holidays!

DOLPHIN - ELECTRIC HORSEMEN VIDEO!!!!

2010-12-12T07:47:00.000-08:00

The team of Dolphin/Miguel Sabogal have done it again. This time it's Electric Horsemen, an amazing new video directed by Miguel Sabogal. It seems as if Wardolphin Films has a very bright 2011 ahead of them. Great job by Dolphin/Miguel and everyone now on board with Wardolphin Films. This is fantastik!

Dj Nomade Presents... DOLPHIN - SEX SPELLS!!!!

2010-12-05T20:27:00.000-08:00

Ya know I have always firmly believed that Dolphin is the greatest musical mind of our time. He's very humble about it so I don't mind taking that bullet for him. There is really no human way to comprehend the vast amount of music he has created in his short life and I have to say I am very lucky, very fortunate to be so close to this musical vortex. Now, our bredren from above (Canada) has given Dolphin 1 hour on his fantastic show to do this thing. The result? Sex Spells. The best comprehensive display of this man's talents to date. Listen to Nomade explain. - Hal5000

"Very very special show this week! Multi-talented artist, Baltimore based producer, Dolphin is taking over as guest host. Just expect the unexpected from one of my current favorite singer, musician and songwriter. For those of you who don’t know him, the man has collaborated with people like Waajeed, Anti Pop Consortium, Ge-ology, Lone Catalyst among the others. He also has 40 - 50 (maybe more more who knows) projects floating here and there under his own name, his alter ego – OA aka Ocean Aquanaut – or with his live band the Airmath.
Nomade radio show long time listeners know how much I love his work. So I definitely glad to share what I consider to be one of the 2010 Nomade’s best moment." - Dj Nomade

Dolphin Sex Spells Guest Show by Nomade Radio on Mixcloud

2010-10-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

New Mixtape from XLR8R Magazine and The AntiPopConsortium

Note: New OA single "Cinematic Moves" - mind you there are all gems on here.

Enjoy!
hal5yaknowit'sgoindownsoooo..yea

http://www.xlr8r.com/podcast/2010/10/anti-pop-consortium

Podcast 166: Anti-Pop ConsortiumWords: Shawn Reynaldo
In case you haven't noticed the barrage of Ninja Tune-related content as of late, XLR8R has been helping the London- and Montreal-based label celebrate its 20th anniversary. Part of that includes a month-long series of exclusive Ninja Tune podcasts, and this week's edition comes courtesy of seminal NY experimental hip-hop outfit Anti-Pop Consortium. More specifically, the mix was assembled by Anti-Pop member High Priest, who has stayed true to the group's pioneering sonic spirit and put together a futuristic collection of hip-hop tunes—including plenty of tracks of his own and from fellow APC member M. Sayyid that casts aside the genre's usual limitations. He's also managed to do so while slipping in a few gems from more "commercial" acts like Dr. Dre, E-40, and Jadakiss, all without sacrificing the integrity of the mix. More than a decade after Anti-Pop's initial formation, it appears the guys are still capable of breaking new ground. Take a listen, and remember to check back every Thursday in October for more Ninja Tune podcasts. Also, make sure to take a look at XLR8R's Ninja Tune XX microsite for more exclusive content, Ninja Tune XX event info, and plenty of other celebratory goodies.

01 Danger "1130" (Ekleroshock)
02 HPrizm/Audio "Drmanhattan" (Prizmfoundation)
03 HPrizm/Audio "Whipping the Brownsville" (Prizmfoundation)
04 Trae "Inkredible (Instrumental)" (Screwed Up Click)
05 M. Sayyid/Airborn "Brock Lesnar (Instrumental)" (Electric Arms)
06 M. Sayyid/Airborn "Temptation" (Electric Arms)
07 Araabmuzik "Stopit Five (Instrumental)" (Dipset)
08 M. Sayyid "Popcornshrimp" (Electric Arms)
09 E-40 "The Server" (Sikwidit)
10 HPrizm/Audio "Coliseum" (Prizmfoundation)
11 Rahtid Sound "So Hard (Remix)" (Rahtid)
12 Vyle "Everything All Black"
13 Jadakiss "The Champ Is Here (Part 3)" (DJ Drama)
14 Dr. Dre feat. Nas and TI "Topless" (Aftermath)
15 HPrizm/Airborn "Thru the Wall" (Prizmfoundation)
16 Like Animals "Let's Be Patriots"
17 Cinematic Moves "Dolphin/Ocean Aquanaut" (Wardolphin)
18 Banco Manco "Unknown"
19 HPrizm/Audio "Goofyseq" (Prizmfoundation)
20 M. Sayyid/Airborn "Sayyid over Araab (Freestyle)"

Dolphin - "Racing Stripes" Dir. by Miguel Sabogal

2010-10-02T04:42:00.000-07:00

If I was speechless before, now I'm floored, speechless and may need paramedics.
Wooooow. Dolphin - "Racing Stripes". WARDOPHIN.COM/WARDOLPHINFILMS
Directed by Miguel Sabogal. That being said I proudly present the new Dolphin video from the "Dr. Strange Love Album" -"Racing Stripes"
Hal5000

Dolphin - "Missing Objects" Dir by Miguel Sabogal

2010-09-16T13:53:00.000-07:00

It's not too often Hal5000 finds himself without something to say. All I can say is wow.
Heat.

Dolphin - Missing Objects.
Directed by Miguel Sabogal
for WardolphinFilms/Wardolphin.com

Dolphin Interview - OZON Magazine

2009-11-17T08:19:00.000-08:00

First, Wardolphin.com would like to thank the amazing folks over at Black Athena... Costis and the whole crew for really making this happen.. I'm blessed and humbled.

Hardcopies are in stores now...
just click on the mag itself and scroll thru... the whole mag is a great read.

Peace and love
Dolphin

http://www.ozonweb.com/

Dolphin Interview Pt 1 & 2 w/ AvantUrb.com

2009-05-19T07:27:00.000-07:00

Dolphin Is Known for a few things. One, he never gives interviews, two he hates taking pictures, and three if you get a voice interview out of him your either John The Baptist, The Prophet Mohammed, or Jim Hendrix himself. To say the least he's not big on PR (we are working around the clock to change this!). In his mind, the music is all you'll ever need, you'll never need to know where he's from, his beliefs, his age (as he doesn't believe in time), etc. That being said, I was extremely happy when Primus Luta and his website Avanturb.com convinced Dolphin to sit down and do a definitive interview. There are a few more interviews in the works but it's pretty rare to get him to agree to simple things like, an interview, meeting with record labels (even if they are the president of Motown/Universal or Warner Brothers... ?!), new photos, or even just a visit. That being said I love it when he opens up and allows us to know what compells a man to document his life so feverishly. Big up to Primus Luta, Ichiban Blossom, and all the hosts of other blogs and websites supporting Wardolphin.com! We are truly appreciative of your support!

Sub-Aquatic Depths: Dolphin Interview Part I
3 02 2009

"A musician can walk away from both (the studio and the stage) completely empowered and with a renewed sense of direction."
When the history books are written about this era, while there will be many artists recognized for their various awards and industry accolades, few if any will match the prolific artistry of Dolphin. With over 50 albums recorded and an arsenal of more in the works, perhaps the greatest testament to his talent is the level of artistry put into each song. As you listen you hear an artists investigation of self explored with integrity and a value for quality that matches the quantitative output. Free from the confines of industry, Dolphin creates like few have ever done. When the history books are written while the list of entertainers may be extensive, the list of true artists will be a select group, and amongst those you will find Dolphin.
In Part I of this interview learn more about the history of Dolphin, his influences and the process by which he creates.

Can you give a rundown of all the names you’ve got projects under with a little background on each?
Absolutely, first there is Dolphin. Currently to date there is about 7-8 years worth of material under Dolphin, roughly about 45 plus albums. Dolphin ranges from progressive soul to alternative rock to punk funk. It’s basically limitless in terms of what type of music.
Then there is Ocean Aquanaut which has about 8 albums total with 3 more on the way. Ocean Aquanaut is exclusively underground hip-hop, both instrumentals and with lyrics.
Then there is October Octopussy. There are two albums (soon to be three) under this name which range from new wave punk funk to straight rock with an edge.
The Magnetic Moves is another moniker, which is an all electro funk both instrumental and with vocals. Only one album to date.
Another name used is MCZUMA (hip-hop). These names if you will just merely allow me to create without boundaries and explore different areas. It also allows me to show up in places people least expect with minimal expectations other than the music itself.
House legend Ultra Nate’ and I spoke a lot about working together in ‘08 and me helping out her label, but since House music wasn’t necessarily my staple, it became exciting to know I could do whatever I wanted and just give a different name. That being said the music is always pure and everything is always thought out thoroughly.
It’s all me playing all the instruments, writing, producing and performing the songs anyway so I don’t care. When I was in High School, I would play with a funk ensemble, then play bass for a jazz orchestra, then hang out and play with a straight punk rock outfit and then play on weekends with a cover band. This allowed me so many different avenues to explore ’cause the entire time I was at home producing and making beats for my friends who rhymed. That being said, I don’t believe in boxing people in squares.

Considering you perform most if not all of the instruments on your recordings, what is your first instrument?
My first instrument in life was the guitar. It’s such a universal instrument that if you can unlock it’s coding it can guide you through other instruments.
In terms of recording, it differs each time. Sometimes I will create the drums first and just study them for hours and hours just letting them play until they speak to me and guide me in the next direction. Some albums are more guitar based with me writing the songs on acoustic guitar first, as to have a full understanding of the composition before creating the actual song. Other songs I write on piano cause everything is laid out in front of you. It differs.
For example “One Thing” (the only Dolphin song to ever be remixed so far), which was remixed by Primus Luta, I wrote that on Harmonica and acoustic guitar, performing it live in one take. However once the structure was done, I simply added all the backing vocals and that allowed a bigger take on what the song could be. Then I shipped it to Primus and he didn’t send it back until it was completed and of course I was pleasantly surprised at how he freaked it. However with Dolphin, Ocean, and OctoberOctopussy I always play all the instruments. That may change however ’cause I just asked my sax player Tiffany if she would join me on a new Dolphin song that is on a new EP.

Where do you pull song ideas from, and how do you decide which project is going to be the best channel for those ideas?
It comes through various sources. Some arrive in dream states, some are inspired from hearing great music live or otherwise, some are fully composed in my head long before I record them and won’t stop playing until I record them. It depends on my vibration at the time and what has my interest. I was explaining to a friend the other day that I was watching the French film Amelie, and was so inspired by one statement, one phrase that I ended up recording an entire album within a week ’cause it was that powerful.

Walk us through your songwriting process.
It differs every time but to give you an idea of say the current albums (The Ancient Astronaut and The Underground Garden), I started writing them on acoustic guitar first, then transposed them on the piano and bass. Each project has a different sound to me and I hone in on how I want the drums to sound to define the rest of the song. Soft, hard, midrange, downbeat, punk, afro beat… depends. This may mean playing the drums live myself or if I program them, scowering old records for snares, kicks, high hats etc. I’ll pair up 13-23 different snares to create one, 20 different kick drums to create one, etc. I never write any music down per se as I cannot read music, so it’s always playing mentally in my head. After I record the drums I’ll go back and play the guitar or piano, then add vocals (lead and backing). Then I’ll study it in terms of it’s mix and start adding violins, cellos, synths etc. Sometimes the songs come first in full form and the lyrics have to wait. However fortunately for me whenever I hear a sound, any sound, almost immediately lyrics come to me and songs are fully composed in my head.
Sometimes however it’s a completely different process. For example on piano I may write some songs and live with them on the Fender Rhodes long before they see daylight. So after laying the drums it may be all about laying down the piano, then the bass guitar. Some songs I prefer have very distinctive sounds so I’ll run acoustic pianos through guitar pedals or record the initial foundation on VHS tape and dump to back to my CPU to warm it up. Lately I have been getting into recording the drums, then channeling them out into my stairway at home by way of speakers, setting up mics on the steps to capture it’s ‘ghost’ bouncing off the walls and then mixing the two side by side. It depends on the song, what it means, where it came from and where it’s going.
Almost always with Dolphin, the recordings are analog with me mic’ing amps and using old techniques to record. However I have just started a series for Dolphin using all beats, much in the same way I do production for Ocean Aquanaut.

You recently took your live set The Airmath into the studio to record an album. Can you talk a little bit about how that was for you.
It was an excellent experience. We recorded at the Peabody Institute of Classical Music, a world renowned and respected school. The oldest school in the world for Classical music. Jake Leckie who was our bassist at the time (and always an Airmath member) was also one of the head engineers at the time. We went in for two nights, one for the electric versions of our set (drums, electric guitar, electric bass, and Fender Rhodes) the second night all acoustic (grand piano, upright bass, drums, and acoustic guitar). We only recorded live, no overdubs of any kind and then Jake mixed the sessions while on break in Boston. It was our first recording experience outside of rehearsals and really opened us up in terms of flexibility.
We recorded at least 5 takes per song, so after both nights not only did we have a new sense of bonding but it really asked us to stretch and push some limits.

Studio or the stage?
Both have their place. I was dormant in the home studio for so long that I was dying to get back on stage. Most people think my music career started under the name Dolphin but I have been writing, recording and performing for the majority of my life. Dolphin has only been a small part of that (2001 going forward).
The studio allows me the freedom to just create, try new things and really challenge myself personally as all the albums mentioned before are just me.
The stage has such another connotation to it. It speaks volumes to ones understanding of collaboration and ability to read the audience and draw from it.
A musician can walk away from both completely empowered and with a renewed sense of direction.

Who are some of your biggest influences in the studio? On the stage?
Most of the musicians who influenced me where powerhouses in both contexts. I follow the greats and study them intensely for as Quincy Jones put it, this allows you to “walk in the footsteps of giants and see what it feels like at 50,000 feet”. However, you have to be clear on where to draw the line and find your own lane.
I would say David Bowie, Prince, Miles Davis, The Velvet Underground, John Coltrane, Bad Brains, Bernie Worrell and Funkadelic, The Cure, The Beatles, SunRa, Joy Division, Van Halen, Run DMC, Double Trouble, A Tribe Called Quest to name just a few. The usual suspects along with countless unknown musicians and artists I have met along the way. For example, lately I have been listening to Double Trouble alot, a group that got little fanfare outside of the movie “Wild Style” during the early to mid eighties. What’s been getting me about them is almost all the material available is live which has been inspirational to note that just like funk bands in the 70’s and jazz bands before them, material was hammered out on stage first long before it was ever recorded. That being said, it’s some of the most authentic hiphop ever recorded. Busy Bee (from “Wild Style”) and I are neighbors and friends so whenever we link I try to pick his brain and get his energy cause even now when he performs it’s powerful and you just know it comes from nights and nights of doing his thing. It’s so different from today’s MC who record and record, but have virtually no experience on stage and it shows when the lights go down. Even Coltrane at his height, would sometimes practice for 16hours a day to keep his chops up and to be prepared for a last minute gig. Hendrix would fall asleep with the axe in his hand and wake up with his hands in a chord position. So finding that fine line and maintaining both is mandatory.

If you were born into any other era of music which do you think you’d be the most comfortable in as a musician?
There are two periods that always come to mind. The jazz explosion of the 40-50’s cause the musicians then were not concerned with fame, money, and all the trappings of success. One of the main reasons is ’cause their biggest names were making very little; their only concern was the art, the music. Pushing the boundaries. They would starve for their work, ignore day to day common necessities just to create and express themselves. Also, ’cause of the time period and the political climate of the day, jazz musicians weren’t allowed to freely express themselves, so they did so with their instruments. Something many songwriters, singers and performers can learn from.
Then there is the late 60’s early 70’s. Arguably one of the most important moments in history because of the need to express oneself politically and socially in order to challenge the power bases that controlled the masses. During this time you finally got a chance to hear what the people were thinking; from Nina Simone to James Brown to Hendrix, everyone questioned and challenged societies take on how we should be living. Also during this time you’ll find some of the most experimental music ever created as people completely utilized technology to their advantage with the sole intention of creating new sounds. I maintain that if you study both periods, you can see the direct lineage to any form of music being created today.

Sub-Aquatic Depths: Dolphin Interview Part II

"It is your (artistic) responsibility to create in hopes that your work will spark the mind of those who will inherit the future."
When the history books are written about this era of musicians, while there will be many artists recognized for their various awards and accolades, perhaps none will prove as impressive as the prolific Dolphin. With over 50 albums recorded, and more in the works, the biggest testament to his talent is the level of artistry one finds within each song. He makes no fillers, rather each song takes you deep into depths of the artistic sea in which he swims. Free from the confines of industry, Dolphin creates like few have ever done. When the history books are written he’ll be there, and he’ll be writing a song.
In Part II of this interview learn more about his relationship with art, the projects in store for 2009 and the artistic peers he’s got his eye on.

If you had to choose one album to give a listener as an introduction to your music which would you choose?
I would probably choose my “The Opium Sky” album. I recorded it in 05 and it’s only about 45minutes in length. It took me less than two weeks to create and it may be one of the more accessible albums.
Normally I couldn’t answer that question but lately a friend of mine, an visual artist who’s work I respect greatly, has been staying on me about releasing it.

In your career as a musician you’ve seen the industry completely reshape itself to the point where it is now. Have your ambitions as an artist changed with that?
Yes and no. It has always been my ambition to work outside of the confines of the ‘music industry’. I never liked the sound of it as it always sounded too factory line, too industrial. We are not making canned soda or cars. There were always a few artists who challenge the system but the penalty for doing such just never panned out. It never made sense to me that we create the work only to have it governed and dictated by non-artists. That being said, my ambitions have changed slightly cause earlier in my career I always hoped that musicians, everyday musicians and bigger name musicians would bypass the normal routes and take it to the people. Now I am a full believer as that is a reality and there is simply no going back.

What are the projects you’ve got lined up for 2009?
09 has so much promise. So far I have 2 new Dolphin albums I just completed that will be released in hardcopy and digital versions. I’m working on another Dolphin album as we speak as well. The October Octopussy album will be mixed and mastered this year by the great Primus Luta. That will also be released in hardcopy and digital formats. I’m taking The Airmath over to a soundstage (The Orion) to properly record a two hour show that will be filmed and recorded and released as a live performance DVD/CD. We are trying to debut it in theaters in Baltimore for a special screening. There are three Ocean Aquanaut albums that are currently in production. One of which, Dr. Who - “Rise of the Timelords” is up for free at Wardolphin.
Beyond that I am recording with the AntiPop Consortium on their long awaited reunion album and have already started recording with them. They also have an Ocean Aquanaut song featured on their new mixtape scheduled for release in a few weeks. I am currently working with Koala on some new songs they have just written and I am also featured on their latest album “Central” released in late 08 under Ocean Aquanaut on a song entitled “Plague of the Mind”. High Priest of the APC and I have been throwing around ideas of a possible project so were trying our best to see that come to light as well. Then there is The EyeTeam featuring me and Tezmore, it’s a joint partnership project where I allow Tez to do most of the production and I add on along with me providing all the vocals and lyrics. It’s fun for me cause that’s something I almost never get a chance to do and Tezmore is a great friend who’s extremely talented. There is also a single produced by Earl Blaize from the AntiPop Consortium that I just recorded that will be avialable at Wardolphin in the next month as well.
There are a lot of artists that I worked with last year that I have follow up recordings with. The Rick Lucy album “Destroying Beauty” recorded last year comes out in 09 and there is a Dolphin appearance on lead guitar and vocals on the song “The Pulse” (you can find the free EP version on Amie Street). LaSonya Gunter’s sophomore album has a Dolphin appearance on there as well that features two versions of the song “Sweet Surrender” that features LaSonya, guitar work/solo by Dolphin. I also plan on doing a re-edit series of all 45’s called “Treats for the Working Man”. Volume one has been done, I’m currently working on Volume Two and Three. I’m also rerecording a Prince album note for note in honor of it’s anniversary.
All Dolphin, OA, OO materials can be found on Wardolphin.com or the usual sources Amazon, ITunes, etc btw.
I scored a film short called “The Rothstein Diamond” starring Roger Guenveur Smith (American Gangster, Do the Right Thing, Huey P Newton one man play on Broadway) and Byatta (VH1’s Ms. Rap Supreme) that is scheduled to go into full production this year.
I have just started the Wardolphin podcast series which will be up and running starting in February. A new podcast will be featured every month and will be free to those following the Wardolpin blogs.
I’m working with a few djs to throw “Dolphin” parties which will feature all Dolphin/Wardolphin.com music from the time you walk in the door until the time you leave.
Finally, the great Primus Luta and I have a huge surprise for folks that has already been recorded and mixed. That record is exciting for me as I have just the greatest respect for his insight and his work ethic. That should see light in 09 as well.

What are some projects from other artists you’re looking forward to in 2009?
Primus Luta. Every so often an artist comes along who’s work ethic I greatly admire and who’s sound I love as well. That to me is a very rare find cause often when artists are prolific, have range, and challenge themselves, the end result can be a disaster. Not the case with this dude. I almost never meet anyone who works as hard as I do and in his case his work ethic makes me realize I am sane. Haha. I have just been dying to hear the new sounds this cat has been up to and I’m fortunate to be apart of this process. It’s exciting.
All things Radiohead, by far my favorite band of the moment. “In Rainbows” is my Book of Life.
Stereolab, to me is one of, if not thee greatest band of the last 20 years has a new album in the works. They are sorely misunderstood and underrated.
Jake Leckie, a friend of mine, the original Airmath member and one of the most revered musicians I know. He always challenges me both musically and in turn spiritually. I’m always on the edge of my seat for anything he’s apart of. He’s a well trained musician who’s attended some of the best schools in music, Peabody, Hopkins, Baniff, and yet has the soul and spirit of a cat who plays by ear. Just amazing to hear this cat.
Lafayette Gilchrist and the new Volcanoes. Arguably the toast of France, but Baltimore based. I often kid that he’s the new SunRa… but then he’ll play and everyone will stop laughing. Trust me on this, Sunny is smiling down.
Ben Frock and the Sub-atomic Particles. One of the greatest jazz ensembles I have heard in recent years (along with Lafayette). We became friends through our musical circles intersecting and I became a huge fan of their work after Jake introduced me to them through a documentary he did on them while recording at the Peabody.
Soul Cannon. A local hip-hop live band out of Baltimore that includes some members of the Ben Frock group, in terms of live hip-hop this band houses some of the best musicians in Baltimore. Their live show is superb.
Finally another band called Quartet Offensive. Their drummer is also the drummer for Soul Cannon and for my band the Airmath, Nathan Ellhman Bell. I know when I hear a legendary musician and I convinced, with all certainty he is greatness. His playing sounds like three drummers at once and he is the only drummer that I have ever heard that can make a drum sound like it’s playing backwards. My keys player took me to one of their shows and I couldn’t believe the level of orchestration they had. All their music was written out and charted, they play with a bassist and lead guitarist but accompanied by a full horn section. Nate came by and played for me their new album… we sat on the floor in the dark and listened to pieces that run over 10mins on average. That album is mind-blowing.

In the year 2010 who would you like to be able to say you’ve had the pleasure to work with that you haven’t yet?
Probably just the musicians I have mentioned as I have so much respect for them. Also HR of Bad Brains as we were just recently introduced and have tentative plans to hang out. Should be quite the experience I understand. The only other musicians that stick out would be David Byrne (Talking Heads), we have intersecting lines through a mutual friend and that would be amazing. I’m not sure at all if that’s even a remote possibility but if I could, I definitely would.
McCoy Tyner (former pianist for Coltrane). My level of respect for him knows no boundaries and I often feel like he’s directly speaking to me.
Beyond that, I try to stay away from the greats I have grown up loving as I kinda subscribe to the belief system of never meeting your idols cause it will just destroy everything. That goes equally the same in the musical realm.

Why do you think this is the most important time for music?
I wouldn’t say just now, I think everyday is the most important time in music cause it always presents the opportunity to create something new that could change the world forever. We are alive and thus we always have that responsibility. I know many people believe that cause of the wars going on, the economy and after the last 8 years that now is the most significant time. I maintain that man has never in the history of the world learned it’s lesson so the need to push, the need to create, the need to challenge the status quo will always exist. Also to me, music is the true voice of God so therefore we will always need to hear it.

Any last words about the future of music and the artist?
Only that if you are an artist, of any kind, it is your responsibility to create in hopes that your work will spark the mind of those who will inherit the future.
Our generation is reckless and restless. Combine that with no sense of humility and it’s dangerous. It is solely up to us to help shape their minds, inspire their minds, and fill the gaps that have been left open by poor educational funding, lack of art related classes in public schools, and just general disenfranchisement. This responsibility is ours now more than ever because of the accessibility of technology but also because of the disconnect between generations. If we do not play our cards right, all can be and will be lost. Peace and a most grateful and humble thank you to Avanturb.

links to the original interviews as found on Avanturb.com

SubAquatic Depths Interview With Dolphin Pt. One

http://avanturb.com/news/?p=352#top3

SubAquatic Depths Interview With Dolphin Pt. Two

http://avanturb.com/news/?p=357

A, B, C, D, E, F, G

2008-11-25T12:06:00.000-08:00

I am a self taught musician, often times hearing songs in visions, dreamstates or just wide awake. To me everything in the universe has a vibrational pattern. Everything. Whether it moves or not, it has vibration. To me the true voice of God is music. It's what our voice aspires to be, it's the breath of the creator.

To me music is medicine, it's the healer of all pains, the giver of hope, the inspiration to warriors, and calm to the aftermath. I have often told my colleagues that I believe music to be the Alpha to the Omega (A - G) and that the entire universe is right there... under your fingers. Will you build or destroy? Often times I think many undestimate the power of subliminal suggestion or the power of overt conversation. Often times I think that people misuse their power as many men would if they were rich or highly influential, restricting musical muses to whore on behalf of their wishes with no concerns of her mental state afterward or the johns she slept with. We are living in very dark times, with only glimpses of light, therefore I feel that music is our last salvation and as we become more spiritually aware, more astute to our surroundings, more loving, more concerned about our fellow living beings... so will our music.

Whether the Alpa (A) or Omega (G) or the notes in between, will you destroy or build the enviornment around you? The choice is definitely ours. I will say, there is no concert louder than an angry Ocean... no musical score more dimished and inverted than the earth beneath your feet shaking... and no orchestration more sweeping than the winds blowing at hundreds of miles an hour. The choice is yours. Raise your instrument... the universe is ready to conduct.