Ear Expansion Podcast

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Nnenna, exploring her musical journey, creative influences, and sonic explorations. The conversation delves into her monthly DubLab show, 'The More You Look,' which celebrates interconnected music elements in Black culture. Nnenna explains the concept behind ‘STEMLINES’ as a fusion of her interest in math- particularly, fractals. She elaborates on abstracting emotional concepts into her music through layered vocals, harmonies, and instrumentation, capturing a balance of expansion and contraction. The episode concludes with Nnenna reflecting on her musical production techniques, the theoretical significance of infinity, and her first impactful memories of sound.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton welcomes back William Parker for another in-depth discussion.  This discussion delves into the spiritual and social motivations behind his music and the broader culture. The episode explores the concept of the 'tone world,' Parker's ideas on the intersection of spirituality, music, and societal transformation, and reflects on the evolving inclusion of women in the avant-garde music scene. The two also discuss William's notable works and how silence and polyphony influence his compositions. The conversation is rich with reflections on freedom, unity, and the transcendental power of music to foster societal and personal change.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton is in conversation with anti-disciplinary artist Jay Afrisando. The discussion spans Afrisando’s journey from early experiments with the guitar and Sibelius to exploring sonic innovations with traditional Indonesian instruments like the saluang and angklung. They delve into the interplay between tradition and innovation, aural diversity as a foundation for inclusive sonic practices, and multisensory approaches that redefine listening. Afrisando shares insights into reimagining cultural identities through sound, using constraints to inspire creativity, and addressing access through works like Embodied Music Club and Aural Architecture. This conversation offers a profound exploration of how sound, identity, and access intersect in the evolving field of auditory arts.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in an in-depth conversation with legendary musician William Parker, delving into his early musical influences and his formative years in New York's Loft Scene during the 1970s. Parker recounts how the Loft Scene served as a pivotal training ground for avant-garde musicians, providing a space for artistic self-determination. He discusses his entry into the scene, the significance of key venues like Studio We, Studio RivBea, and Ali's Alley, and his interactions and collaborations with many influential musicians along the way. Parker also explains his conceptual approach to the bass, viewing it as a spiritual tool while emphasizing the oneness of sound over notes. The conversation touches on his collaborations with drummers, his spiritual and philosophical approach to music, and his efforts to document and preserve the legacy of creative musicians.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, Kareem Samara delves into his musical journey influenced by his father's love for classic rock and his mother's classical Arabic music. He describes his early interactions with music, from creating mixtapes in junior school to formal learning with his Lebanese oud teacher. Kareem discusses his unique approach of blending the oud with electronic effects and improvisation, and how his Palestinian heritage and current geopolitical events shape his music. He addresses the tension between his identity and his activism, underscoring the importance of representing Palestinian resistance through his art. The conversation also highlights his collaboration on the 'Thin Blue Border' album, exploring themes of global humanitarian crises and the arbitrary nature of borders.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton converses with Carlos Niño about his rich and evolving journey in the realms of sound and music. Carlos reflects on his early musical influences, his extensive work in radio, and the formation of his collaborative spirit through projects like Build an Ark. The discussion highlights the importance of his various mentors in shaping his artistic path, his philosophy of viewing music as a form of living expression, and the profound impact of collective improvisation or "breath" in his work. Carlos shares insights into his creative processes, including his approach to using diverse instruments and sounds, and emphasizes the interconnectedness of life, nature, and music. The episode also touches on Carlos's inspirations from iconic figures such as Iasos and Pharaoh Sanders and his dedication to sharing the essence of life through sonic moments, and his broader vision of music as a reflection of universal harmony and love.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, the spotlight is on Gabriel Jermaine Vanlandingham-Dunn, a music historian, writer and DJ from West Baltimore. This conversation delves into his musical journey from early experimentation in hip-hop production through his entry into writing and finally his establishment of the cow:Music label through Astral Spirits Records. Gabriel reflects on the profound influence of his family and cultural heritage on his artistic path, emphasizing a personal, non-traditional approach to music criticism. The conversation extends into the significance of a black-owned label and the challenges faced in organizing events. Throughout, Gabriel emphasizes the power of music to provide solace and community and his interdisciplinary efforts through the cow:Arts program, which aims to bridge various art forms. The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion of sound's emotional impacts, with hopes for future collaborations fostering a deep, shared appreciation for artistic expression.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton converses with Matana Roberts to explore their extensive and multifaceted career as a composer, band leader, sound experimentalist, and visual artist. This conversation delves into Roberts' Coin Coin series, their diverse upbringing, and their evolution as an influential figure in experimental music. The discussion highlights their family's history, the importance of ancestral roots, and their unique artistic methods that intertwine storytelling with abstract sound compositions. The episode also addresses the dynamics of gender in the music industry, with Roberts sharing their experiences. The profound conversation further touches on the therapeutic aspects of exploring and reclaiming ancestral trauma, practices of self-care, and the powerful role of communal singing and sound in spiritual and emotional healing.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, Ana Lira, a multidisciplinary artist renowned for her work in visual arts, documentary, and social communications, delves into her journey through Brazilian cultural narratives. The discussion addresses themes of collective memory, social justice, and the lived experiences of marginalized communities in Brazil, including women, black, indigenous, and LGBTQ+ populations. Lira shares her early sound practices shaped by her cultural heritage and emphasizes the integration of activism in her artistry. She introduces 'matutar,' a reflective life and art approach, and underscores the significance of initiating projects with probing questions. The episode explores her course on sound art as an anti-colonial technology, focusing on the importance of deep listening in contrast to the fast-paced modern listening technologies. Contributions from various sound artists are acknowledged, highlighting connections between Afro-Diasporic cultures and communities.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton interviews Abdul Bilal Hakim, also known as Grey Wulf, about their sonic and spiritual journey. The discussion covers Abdul's early formation in sound, the influence of his Afro-Indigenous background, and the impact of artists like Keiji Haino and Stephen O'Malley. Abdul recounts their transformative experiences, such as working in Alaska and undergoing spiritual rituals led by their mentor. They explore the themes of their music, including cathartic sound exploration, spiritual transformation, and the evolution reflected in their albums. The episode highlights Abdul's growth from creating music rooted in rage and guilt to expressing joy and self-acceptance while maintaining a deep connection with his spiritual practices.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, the host LaMont Hamilton speaks with Kennedy Verrett, a multi-faceted composer, pianist, and sound researcher, about his diverse and extensive career. Kennedy shares his evolution from a childhood fascination with nature to a professional life dedicated to sound studies, including notable projects like 'Soundcheck Earth' and his field research in places like Joshua Tree and Alaska. He explains his unique methods involving spectrograms and field recordings, delving into the relationship between natural sounds and his compositions. The discussion also highlights his improvisational works, specifically his harmonic explorations. Additionally, Kennedy discusses 'Burnside Sessions,' a collaborative community project that transitioned from his Portland studio to an international online forum. Lastly, he introduces 'SoundSense,' his podcast dedicated to exploring the science of sound and its connection to music, enriching listeners' auditory experiences with immersive soundscapes and thought-provoking discussions.

In this episode of 'Ear Expansion,' Thavius Beck delves into his extensive career as an instrumentalist, producer, and electronic music educator. The conversation explores Thavius' early musical influences, starting from his childhood experiences with instruments like the saxophone and bass guitar, to his later fascination with electronic samplers and synthesis. Beck reflects on his role in the LA music scene and his involvement with the influential hip-hop collective Global Phlowtations Artist Committee (GPAC). He speaks about his musical inspirations, such as Jean-Luc Ponty and Public Enemy’s Bomb Squad, and discusses the concept of sound collage and the emotional and physical impact of music. Throughout, Thavius provides personal insights into his creative process and his philosophical approach to music as an expressive medium.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host engages in an in-depth conversation with LuFuki, a historian specializing in the contributions of Muslims to Black music, guitarist, composer, curator, and founder/co-founder of several musical collectives. LuFuki discusses his late start with the guitar, heavily influenced by Jimi Hendrix, Carlos Santana, and John McLaughlin, and how his practice expanded into larger compositions. He reflects on music as a spiritual practice and its role in promoting unity. The conversation also delves into his curation of the X Roads exhibition, which explores Malcolm X's connections to jazz and civil rights, and contrasts his influence on jazz and hip hop. Additionally, LuFuki expounds on his musical projects like the Love and Light Duo and Divine Providence, which aim to connect hearts through sound and promote social action. He explains the integration of diverse musical traditions into his work and the importance of collective improvisation. The dialogue emphasizes the spiritual and introspective elements embedded in his music practice and how they resonate with his Sufi beliefs, ultimately aiming to foster solidarity and understanding through sound.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, artist Rena Anakwe reflects on her 15-year journey as a sound artist, exploring sound collage and sound healing. Growing up in a Nigerian immigrant household in Canada, Rena became a self-taught DJ and sound artist, using everyday sounds and field recordings to create emotional narratives. She discusses projects like 'Sometimes I Lose My Words' and 'From My Window: Dreams, Hopes, and Disappointments,' and how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced her work. The conversation highlights her thesis project at NYU's ITP program, her creation of immersive healing environments, and her focus on accessibility in wellness practices. Rena also delves into the therapeutic potential of sound for mental health and supporting marginalized communities, sharing personal anecdotes and the challenges of navigating the music scene and the industrial wellness industry.

In this compelling episode of Ear Expansion, avant-garde clarinetist and composer Angel Bat Dawid shares her profound connection with music that began in her family's church and expanded during her childhood in Africa. The conversation navigates her musical journey through what she calls "Great Black Music" dispelling various industry imposed genres, including funk, jazz, classical, and gospel. Angel discusses her experiences with racial discrimination in music institutions, fueling her dedication to and building within the tradition of 'Great Black Music' all while  fostering community-focused music initiatives. Her commissioned piece 'Requiem for Jazz' honors the history of black music while offering an extension to Ed Bland's 1959 documentary Cry of Jazz. The discussion covers the spiritual and cultural significance of her work, her upbringing surrounded by esoteric religious teachings, and her role as an educator. Angel emphasizes the power of acknowledging ancestors, the importance of preserving cultural artifacts, and the impact of myth, spirit, and breath in creating new realities. The episode concludes with reflections on the transformative power of music in emotional healing and the deeper cultural narratives within Black music.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, Jahon Mikal discusses the multifaceted nature of his musical practice, which includes roles as a playwright, vocalist, songwriter, producer, and audio engineer. Jahon reflects on the origins of his musical journey, starting with playing marimbas at the Langston Hughes Performing Arts Center and participating in church choirs and musicals. He describes the influence of astrology on his music and shares insights into the evolution of his sound and compositions. Jahon delves into specific albums such as 'Medulla Transmission', highlighting its experimental and personal nature, and 'Thor and I', an instrumental project inspired by visions and synthesizers. Additionally, he explores 'Subtle Star Recalibration Loops', an ambient album created with a polarity concept based on the Zodiac, and his musical 'Waspecalf', which addresses themes of capitalism, corporate hegemony, and the environment. Jahon's introspective conversation offers a deep dive into his creative processes and inspirations.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, Damon Locks discusses his extensive musical and visual art journey, emphasizing the intersections between his practices. Starting from his formative years influenced by punk music, he details his experiences with bands like Trenchmouth and The Eternals and their sonic evolution. He highlights how his interest in visual art, inspired by his mother, led to an exploration of collage techniques in both mediums. Damon elaborates on how teaching in correctional facilities influenced his sound work and describes how his Black Monument Ensemble evolved from solo projects to a collective effort reflecting black artistic excellence. His recent collaboration with Rob Mazurek, 'New Future City Radio,' and upcoming projects like 'Listening Device' and 'Recording Device' are also discussed, showcasing his commitment to creating vibrant, thought-provoking art.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, Yaw delves into his musical journey, influenced by his Ghanaian heritage and his father's diverse record collection. He discusses the evolution of his sound, drawing from experiences in the Chicago Children's Choir, R&B influences, and music from around the globe. Yaw reflects on incorporating the Twi language into his work and addresses the emotional weight in the voices of artists like Donny Hathaway and Nina Simone. He shares insights on his collaborative experiences with Khari Lemuel and Theaster Gates' Black Monks, highlighting the importance of voice and chant in his artistic development. Yaw also explores his engagement with archival materials, turning historical and, at times, grotesque imagery into reflective and transformative music. Personal anecdotes about his family's immigration story and early sound memories further enrich the conversation, illustrating how his past continues to shape his artistry.

This episode of Ear Expansion features a deep conversation with musician Luke Stewart, discussing his sonic background and influences. Stewart recalls his formative years in both Mississippi and Washington D.C., highlighting experiences from playing in school bands and a punk group to his exposure to jazz and experimental music. He elaborates on the transition from saxophone and electric bass to the upright bass and the physical and spiritual connection he felt with it. Stewart shares insights into his solo work, 'Works for Upright Bass and Amplifier Volumes One and Two,' and his recent album 'Unknown Rivers,' touching upon themes of historical connections, improvisation, and feedback techniques. The discussion also covers his involvement with various bands, his method of integrating different musical influences, and his reflective process of creating music. Stewart reflects on the impact of these experiences on his growth as a musician and his multifaceted artistry.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, Brother Nicholas engages in a profound discussion with the host about the early influences on his sound work, particularly focusing on the impact of his father, David 'Strummin' Dog' Galanin. They explore how his father's passion for Delta blues and early musical education helped shape his artistic path. The conversation also delves into the symbolic and cultural significance of canoe construction, the rhythmic and ceremonial nature of indigenous practices, and the importance of the Tlingit language. They discuss how his sonic projects, like 'Silver Jackson', 'Indian Agent', and 'Ya Tseen', illustrate different phases of his personal and artistic evolution. Emphasis is placed on the deeply rooted cultural connections within his music, the role of collaboration, and the powerful messages behind projects like 'Neon American Anthem'. The dialogue is enriched with personal anecdotes, reflections on ancestral memory, and thoughts on the future of indigenous languages and cultural practices.