WNYC's Soundcheck

Rap's Mama

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Long before rap, there was “the dozens” – the African-American street rhyming tradition that often involved… your mom. Today: Author Elijah Wald shares the surprising musical history of the viciously funny insults. Plus: A live performance from indie veteran Frankie Rose.

The Story of Yo La Tengo

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 30 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The town of Hoboken, New Jersey is small – but mighty. It’s given birth to baseball, the music venue Maxwell's…and the rock band Yo La Tengo. Today: an indie rock history, told through one of its hardest working bands – and the place they’ve called home for thirty years. Plus: the New York band Outernational plays live.

Regina Spektor: Live

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 29 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Over the course of her career, singer and pianist Regina Spektor has gone from a cult figure in New York’s “anti-folk” scene to a major recording artist. With a new album out today called “What We Saw From the Cheap Seats,” she returns to our studio for a live perfomance. Plus: A look at the 25 new works added to the National Recording Registry, from the earliest-known commercial sound recording to Prince's "Purple Rain."

Audra McDonald and Sharon Van Etten

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 28 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

From Broadway...to Brooklyn. Today we revisit a favorite show from earlier this year, when Audra McDonald and Sharon Van Etten joined us in the Greene Space -- with two different takes on American popular song. You can watch the entire Greene Space performance below.

This is an encore presentation of Soundcheck.

Deal With The Devil

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 25 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

As the story goes, bluesman Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil at Mississippi crossroads in exchange for his uncanny guitar abilities. Today, we're joined by Radiolab’s Jad Abumrad – who recently found that the truth behind the enduring rock myth is far stranger than the fiction. Plus: cast members from the Tony-nominated musical "Once" join us to perform live in our studio.

100 Greatest Guitarists... Revised

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

From Skrillex to Jam Master Jay, Spin's new list of 100 greatest guitarists of all time has plenty of names you might not expect. Today: a look at who’s in this new crop of guitar heroes, and -- who was left out. Plus, we ask you to nominate your favorite shredders. And, The Spinto Band joins us to play live.

Soundcheck Smackdown: Food, the New Rock?

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 23 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Has food become the new rebel rock? Following last weekend's Great GoogaMooga food and music festival in Brooklyn, we host a Soundcheck Smackdown debate about the growing influence of foodie culture in music. Plus: New York City rapper Jean Grae previews her forthcoming album, Cake or Death, with a live in studio performance.

Dave Gahan: Soulsaver

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 22 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Dave Gahan is best known as the frontman of Depeche Mode - but these days, he's moonlighting with an entirely different project. Today on the show, Gahan talks about his new gig as the lead singer for the British music and production duo Soulsavers. Plus: They're an internet sensation - Project Trio’s cellist, bassist and beatboxing flutist play live.

I Can’t Quit You, Song!

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 21 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

We all have that one song that we just can’t stop listening to – just check out your iTunes "plays" column for proof. Today: we talk with a writer and neuroscientist about musical fixation - and ask you to share your "most-played" song. Plus, violist Garth Knox brings his trio in for a live performance.

The Past and Present of Go-Go

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Chuck Brown, the cherished innovator of Washington D.C.’s funky go-go sound, died on Wednesday, leaving a city in mourning. Today, we talk about the past, present, and uncertain future of go-go. Plus, Laura Burhenn of The Mynabirds joins us in studio for a live performance.

The 78 Project

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The 78 Project is on a mission to record today’s musicians with yesterday’s technology - a 1930s PRESTO direct-to-disc recorder. We'll hear about the project and give it a go, as the project records our musical guest, Justin Townes Earle, live on the air.

Marching Bands and Hazing

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 16 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Today, we look at the role that hazing can play in marching bands - following 11 felony arrests in the death of a Florida A&M drum major. Plus, songs inspired by Nicolas Slonimsky's 1947 book, “Thesaurus of Scales and Melodic Patterns.” And, a live performance from New York musician Cat Martino.

Soundcheck Smackdown: Concert Dancing

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

For most, concerts are for listening to music. But for some, concerts are for dancing to music – whether that means rocking out with an air guitar, suggestively maneuvering a hula hoop or diving into the mosh pit. As the outdoor concert season approaches, our Soundcheck Smackdown series continues with a fierce debate about concert dancing. Plus: A live performance from a band wants to make you dance - Brooklyn's Chicha Libre.

Jock Jams

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 14 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Tennis champion Serena Williams is the latest athlete to moonlight as a recording artist, joining the ranks of boxer Manny Pacquiao, basketball great Shaquille O’Neal and even the ‘86 Mets. Today: when jocks make music. Plus, a live performance from Icelandic singer and songwriter Ólöf Arnalds.

'Dark Shadows' Over 1972

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 11 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The ‘60s Gothic soap opera 'Dark Shadows' has returned via the big screen – and in new film, beloved vampire Barnabas Collins finds himself in 1972. Today, Soundcheck examines this memorable year in music with the film’s music supervisor and Rolling Stone senior editor David Fricke. Plus: A live performance from "Nice Work If You Can Get It" Broadway star Kelli O'Hara.

John Peel's Record Collection

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

For almost 40 years, the late BBC radio host John Peel spun cutting-edge tracks and launched entire careers with his legendary “Peel Sessions.” Along the way, he amassed an enormous, meticulously organized record collection. Today, we look into John Peel’s archives - and the online museum that has become its home. Plus: Sonic Youth’s Lee Ranaldo has a new solo record. He joins us with his band to play live.

M. Ward: Solo Again

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 09 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Musician M. Ward has become quite the collaborator, as part of the supergroup Monsters of Folk and one half of the duo She & Him. Today: M. Ward shows off his solo side, with a performance of songs from his new album, “A Wasteland Companion.” Plus: Aaron Freeman, aka "Gene Ween," talks about his solo debut - based on the work of best-selling poet and balladeer Rod McKuen. And: We turn to the "Copy Cat" for a look at recent copyright capers.

Rufus Wainwright Returns to Pop

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 08 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Today: singer, songwriter and composer Rufus Wainwright joins us for a live performance of songs from his new pop-tinged album "Out of the Game." And: five months ago, New York DJ Jonathan Toubin was left in critical condition after taxi cab crashed into his hotel room. He joins us to talk about his recovery - and a return to spinning records.

Glenn Frey: An Eagle After Hours

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 07 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Glenn Frey is best known as a founding member of the Eagles. Now, the Grammy winner is releasing his first solo album in 17 years – a collection of classic love songs and vintage pop. Today, Frey talks about recording the music of his childhood. And, a live performance from Montreal singer/songwriter Patrick Watson and his band.

Dance Crazes: Here and Now

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Today, we conclude our dance craze series with a look at what’s hot on the dance floor right now, with help from choreographer Joey Dowling and YouTube's hip-hop dance instructor, Brice Johnson, a.k.a. Professor Lock. Plus, the band Shearwater returns to our studio to play live. And, we take a moment to remember Adam "MCA" Yauch of the Beastie Boys.

Everybody Mambo!

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Today, our dance craze series continues with a look back at the mambo wave that swept through New York in the mid-20th century. Plus: we hear about the nineties megahit that just wouldn’t stop – the Macarena. And, songwriter and producer Santi White, aka Santigold, talks about her new album "Master of My Make-Believe."

Tales From the Mosh Pit

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 02 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

In the early 80s audiences at hardcore punk shows began pushing, shoving, and slamming into each other…in the friendliest of ways, of course. Today, our dance craze series heads into the mosh pit for a look at slam dancing. Plus, bassist Mike Watt of the punk band Minutemen joins us with a photo memoir. And, we get a preview of the new "Crossing Brooklyn Ferry" music festival. Guests include guitarist Bryce Dessner, of The National.

From The Jitterbug to The Dougie

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Since Cab Calloway recorded the “Call of the Jitterbug” in 1935, the term has been closely tied to acrobatic dances like Lindy Hop and swing. Today, Soundcheck’s dance craze series continues with Chris Calloway Brooks - the grandson of the hep cat himself. Plus, we examine the deep African-American roots of American social dances. And, a live performance from a group that blends klezmer, hip hop and funk: Abraham Inc.

The Twist: A True Dance Revolution

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The move itself was as simple as drying off with a towel – but the cultural shift that the Twist represented set off shockwaves around the world. Today, we kick off a week-long series on dance crazes as dance historian Sally Sommer joins us for a look back at the hip shaking revolution. Plus: we learn about the role television played in dance-fad history with author and TV producer Jake Austen. And: a live performance from vocalist Kat Edmonson.

Judy Garland: At the End

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Broadway's latest British import, "End of the Rainbow,” explores the troubled final months of Judy Garland's life. Today: English actress Tracie Bennett talks about her stark portrayal of a diva in decline. Plus: We continue our Soundcheck Blind Date series. We're setting you up with the band Bright Moments.

Restaurant Radio

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

New York City chefs are known for creating truly inspired dishes. Sometimes, the most important ingredient is music. Today: how songs are shaping the food you eat at trendsetting restaurants. Plus: singer LaLa Brooks got her start with ‘60s girl group The Crystals. She joins us to talk about recording songs like "Da Doo Ron Ron," "Then He Kissed Me" and more.

Punch Brothers: Live from the Greene Space

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Today, we’re broadcasting live from the Greene Space with the string band Punch Brothers -- featuring mandolin player Chris Thile...and a musician who made Rolling Stone magazine's list of “new guitar gods": Kaki King.

The Classical Music of Your Dreams

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

For musicians, it takes practice to get to Carnegie Hall. But to get audiences there, it takes programs – the more exciting, the better. Today, Soundcheck looks at how the music for orchestras is selected. And, we want to know: what type of program would inspire you to attend a classical concert? Plus: Composer Frank London talks about his new symphony - inspired by the borough of Queens. He joins us with writer and actor Judith Sloan to talk about their collaboration.

Boogaloo: ¡Que Funky!

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

In the 1960s and ‘70s, the boogaloo genre grew out of the Latin jazz, soul and R&B traditions in New York. Johnny Colon, the bandleader, pianist and educator behind hits like “Boogaloo Blues,” joins us for a look at boogaloo, past and present. Plus, Brazilian vocalist Paula Morelenbaum spent 10 years in famed songwriter Antonio Carlos Jobim’s band - she performs live. And: Why Broadway is bustling with new shows this month.

Joe Strummer's Rebel Music

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The late Joe Strummer was more than a punk rocker. He helped give the punk movement a social conscience – both with the Clash and on his own. Today: a new book and documentary explore the enduring, passionate rebel music of Joe Strummer. Plus, a live performance from flamenco guitarist Pedro Soler and his son, avant-garde cellist Gaspar Claus. And, we remember the late Levon Helm.

Memories Through Music

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The work of the New York-based Music & Memory project has now been seen around the web – thanks to a touching clip from the new documentary “Alive Inside" that's gone viral. Today: The role that music can play in elder care, particularly in the lives of those suffering from dementia. Plus: we remember television host Dick Clark, who died on Wednesday -- and take your calls.

Tribeca Film Fest's Musical Offerings

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The Tribeca Film Festival kicks off this week with a number of music-filled selections to choose from. Today: A preview of some of those films, including the documentary “Once in a Lullaby” – about Staten Island’s famous PS 22 chorus. Plus: Mexican guitar virtuosos Rodrigo y Gabriela perform selections from their new album, "Area 52."

Bob Marley's Legend

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

For years, big-name directors have struggled to make a movie about the late reggae legend Bob Marley. Now, a new documentary aims to tell the story behind the superstar. Today: Bob Marley’s eldest son, Ziggy Marley and filmmaker Kevin Macdonald tell us about "Marley." Plus, a live performance from fast-playing Minnesota bluegrass band, Trampled By Turtles. And, our weekly Pick Three.

Bonnie’s Blues

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

From her blues albums of the 1970s to her rock hits of the ‘90s, Bonnie Raitt has been a powerful presence in the American musical landscape for more than 40 years. Today, she joins us to talk about her latest release, called “Slipstream” – her first new album in seven years. Plus, a visit from another veteran performer: Amy Ray of the Indigo Girls joins us to play songs from her new solo album, "Lung of Love."

Questlove Does the Shuffle

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The shuffle setting on iPods and digital music players has changed how we experience recorded music. Today, drummer Questlove of The Roots joins us to talk 'shuffle culture' – and take your calls. Plus: Malian guitarist Vieux Farka Toure and Israeli pianist/composer Idan Raichel perform live in our studio. And: ways that you can mark the Titanic centennial here in New York City.

Dar Williams: Modern Day Mythologist

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Dar Williams tackles tough issues like mental health, religion, and gender roles through her music. Today: The singer-songwriter plays songs from “In the Time of Gods” – her forthcoming album pairing Greek mythology with social commentary. And: As the centennial of the Titanic disaster approaches, we listen to songs inspired by the disaster. Plus: We get your reactions to Axl Rose's open letter to the L.A. Times.

Werking It

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Electronic music band Kraftwerk is in the midst of a sold-out residency in New York – inspiring tribute concerts, ticket bidding wars, and spontaneous robotic dance-offs. Today, German singer and composer Theo Bleckmann joins Soundcheck to discuss the legacy of the synthpop pioneers. Plus: A live performance from Gypsy jazz guitarist Stephane Wrembel.

Mega-Raves Go Mainstream

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Rock icons like Bruce Springsteen still fill arenas. But concert promoters have seen the future of their industry and its name is “dance music.” Today: why mega-raves are going mainstream – and attracting some unusual investors. Plus: a live performance from the Vijay Iyer Trio. And: excerpts from John Schaefer's recent roundtable discussion with James Murphy and David Byrne.

Billboard Déjà Vu

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Madonna and Lionel Richie are back at the top of the charts this week with brand new albums, giving us a case of Billboard déjà vu. Today: a sonic trip back to 1986, when the two stars last mingled in the Billboard Top 5. Plus: a visit from seminal '80s songwriters Suzanne Vega and Duncan Sheik, who will be performing together on tour - and live in our studio.

The Ring’s Reach

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

This weekend, The Metropolitan Opera begins performances of Wagner’s epic “Ring” cycle. Today: a look at how the "Ring" has left its mark on everything from Hollywood… to Bugs Bunny… to environmentalism. And, a reading of “Ring”-inspired haiku from critics, artists…and you. Plus, celebrated sitar player Anoushka Shankar joins us to talk about her new album, "Traveller."

New York is Voguing

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The 1990 documentary "Paris is Burning" chronicled the golden age of drag balls in New York City - and the birth of the dance style known as “voguing." Today, Soundcheck strikes a pose… and looks back at the history of the ballroom scene and its music with the director of the award-winning film. Plus: As we continue to solicit "Ring" cycle haiku, Bowery Poetry Club founder Bob Holman joins us to talk about the history of the 17-syllable poetry form.

Pet Sounds

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Just because you like jazz…doesn’t mean your pet does too. Today: how animals interact with human sound environments – including those that might be harmful. And, gather Fluffy ‘round the radio, for a sampling of music made specifically for cats. Plus, a live acoustic performance from Texan rock trio Girl in a Coma.

Gone Country

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

25 years later, Lionel Richie’s dancing on the ceiling again – but this time, he's in cowboy boots. Today: A Soundcheck Smackdown about the pop star’s new album of his greatest hits gone country, called “Tuskegee.” Plus: A look at other artists, from Bing Crosby to Bon Jovi, who’ve dabbled in twang. And: A new musical production of Shakespeare’s “The Taming of the Shrew” is set in the Wild West. Director Arin Arbus and the cast join us for a live performance.

Newsies on Broadway

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The 1992 film 'Newsies' was a flop – but in years since has become a cult hit. Now, the story of scrappy New York street urchins selling newspapers is getting the Broadway treatment. Today: we look back at the real events that inspired the tale. Plus, a conversation with 'Newsies' composer Alan Menken. And, an exclusive stream of the new cast recording. Also on the show: a live performance from singer and songwriter Bhi Bhiman.

Andrew Bird: Live from the Greene Space

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Violinist, singer, and composer Andrew Bird is known for his unique blend of pop and chamber music – and his whistle. Today, Soundcheck broadcasts live from the Greene Space with the multi-talented musician, who’ll play songs from his new album, “Break It Yourself.” Plus: Saturday Night Alive alum Ana Gasteyer joins us to preview her swinging cabaret show, "Elegant Songs From a Handsome Woman."

Knock On Wood!

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Given the number of things that can go wrong with a production, it’s no wonder that performers are a superstitious bunch. Today Soundcheck dives into the world of superstitions -- from The Apollo’s famous tree stump to why you never, ever say “Good Luck.” Plus: Bree Benton, a.k.a. "Poor Baby Bree," gives us a performance from her one-woman show, “I Am Going to Run Away.” And: We remember banjo player and bluegrass revolutionary Earl Scruggs.

Music to Don Draper's Ears

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

The 1960s period drama Mad Men is fastidious when it comes to costumes, politics and of course – music. Today: the popular soundtrack of 1966, from Frank Sinatra’s “Strangers in the Night” to the Rolling Stones’ “Paint it, Black.” Plus, a live performance from Swedish sister duo First Aid Kit.

Boy Bands: Heading in One Direction

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Last week, British boy band One Direction made history with their chart-topping debut album, “Up All Night.” Today, Soundcheck surveys the latest crop of all-male groups, singing and dancing their way into tween hearts worldwide. Plus: A live performance of music inspired by the poems of Spanish playwright and poet Federico Garcia Lorca, by bassist Alexis Cuadrado and his band.

Dr. John Pays a Studio Call

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

New Orleans innovator Dr. John is in town this week to pay tribute to his hometown hero, Louis Armstrong. Today: A house call from the doctor, and a preview of his upcoming album, called “Locked Down.” Plus: Art about unemployment, when musician and playwright Ethan Lipton performs live.

The Hunger Games: Sounds of Dystopia

listenerservices@wnyc.org (WNYC, New York Public Radio) — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Fans of "The Hunger Games" are lining up to see the movie as it opens tonight. But the soundtrack to the film has already been selling like hotcakes. Today: a review of the star-studded album…and more music inspired by dismal predictions for the future. Plus, a live performance from North Carolina folk band, Bowerbirds.