41 avsnitt • Längd: 80 min • Månadsvis
Ear Expansion Podcast is a multi-part series of recorded, long form conversations between host LaMont Hamilton and various artists of color working in all aspects of sound. This podcast aims to highlight artists who are invested in the idea of making art that extends the listening experience. Traditionally this has been described as “sound art” or “experimental” work. Ear Expansion Podcast; however, hopes to advocate for a new descriptive language- aural art. Aural Art is a move away from less defined terms such as ambient or experimental in order to specify art made for the hearing body- both the act of listening and its somatic extension.
The podcast Ear Expansion Podcast is created by LaMont Hamilton. The podcast and the artwork on this page are embedded on this page using the public podcast feed (RSS).
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound conversation with Laraaji, an influential sound artist whose work has spanned over five decades. Laraaji shares experiences from his early musical explorations in a Baptist church basement, his serendipitous encounter with the zither, and his ventures into ambient music. Throughout the dialogue, Laraaji delves into the spiritual dimensions of sound, describing music as a medium for deep cosmic connection and self-communion. He reflects on the transformative power of sound, drawing parallels between his past and present musical expressions. The discussion highlights Laraaji's belief in using sound as a tool for achieving inner equilibrium, navigating life's challenges, and fostering a continuous state of gratitude and peace. Hamilton and Laraaji also touch upon the collaborative essence of musical exploration, emphasizing the shared attunement that transcends space and time, and the significance of practices like meditation and creative contemplation in sustaining spiritual and artistic fulfillment. This conversation is an insightful exploration of the interplay between music, spirituality, and self-awareness.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host Lamont Hamilton converses with artist Vanese Smith, also known as Pursuit Grooves, about her formative years and musical evolution. Vanese discusses her beginnings in the DMV area, moving from emceeing to beat production, and her influences from hip hop, R&B, funk, house, and ambient music. She reflects on the impact of growing up in Maryland, the significance of radio, and the cultural blend in her community. The conversation delves into her artistic journey, from her time at a performing arts school to her experiences as a DJ at Vassar College. They explore her creative process, her use of tools like the SP sampler, and her transition to perceiving sound as a malleable, sculptural element. Vanese provides insight into her tribute albums to her grandparents, the significance of archives, and her album 'Bess,' inspired by pioneering aviator Bessie Coleman. Vanese emphasizes the importance of documenting and sharing the stories of underrepresented figures, blending sonic and emotional resonances to inspire future generations.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton interviews Jessica Care Moore, discussing her extensive career, influences, and artistic journey. Moore shares insights into her early musical influences from a diverse range of artists, crediting her parents and the cultural environment of Detroit. She delves into her evolution as an artist, blending poetry, music, and performance, with significant mentorship from elder poets such as Sonia Sanchez, Nikki Giovanni, Ntozake Shange, Gil Scott Heron and more. The conversation touches on her founding of Moore Black Press, experiences in Brooklyn’s seminal 90s Black Art scene, and pivotal life events that shaped her work. Moore also speaks passionately about her project 'Black Women Rock,' a festival celebrating Black women's contributions to music. Throughout, Moore reflects on the transformative power of her voice, artistic collaborations, and her refusal to be confined by traditional genres, highlighting her foundational and more recent work such as the opera 'Wild Beauty' and the genre-bending album 'We Are Scorpio.'
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound and evocative conversation with Onyx Ashanti, an innovative artist who merges music, technology, and self-expression. Onyx recounts his journey from early influences in Mississippi, where the church and marching band played pivotal roles, to discovering Beat Jazz and the Metabyte system. He highlights his transformative experiences at Grambling, Atlanta Underground and within the rave scenes of California and Europe, which led him to his improvisational style and unique sound creation through digital interfaces. The dialogue delves into Onyx’s explorations with tech tools like Pure Data and Arduino, enabling him to create Beat Jazz controllers that allow gestural manipulation of sound. He discusses his concept of sonocybernetic language, where sound operates as a form of communication and memory. Reflecting on his work’s emotional and philosophical dimensions, Onyx shares his vision of merging human experience with cybernetics, aiming to dissolve boundaries between tool and creator to achieve a state of perfected self-expression. The conversation concludes with a mutual reflection on artistic evolution, memory, and the cyclical nature of creativity.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton is in an conversation with artist Jayve Montgomery, also known as AbstractBlack, about his work and musical journey. Jayve discusses his experimentation with sound, influenced by hip hop and the Great Black Music traditions within Chicago. He also speaks about how his work tackles themes of systemic oppression, historical trauma, and black experiences. Jayve shares insights on his early sonic formations, improvisational practices, and significant projects, and the origins of his moniker 'AbstractBlack.' He also delves into his performances in unconventional spaces, public improvisation, and how these practices serves as a personal meditative and spiritual evolution. The conversation is punctuated by discussions on societal structures, collective healing through sound, and the broader continuum of black experimental music.
This episode of Ear Expansion features host LaMont Hamilton speaking with Tru as he discusses his multifaceted journey through sound, exploring his early influences from church and family to his deep connection with hip hop and theater. Tru reflects on his evolution as an artist, highlighting his development through projects like For the Future, Sanctuary, and Indigo Rev, each emphasizing communal healing and artistic expression. He delves into his research project, Echoes, which investigates Belizean soundscapes and their diasporic connections, aiming to use sound as a tool for cultural preservation and education. Through initiatives like FTF Radio and his series 'Five Black Sound Artists You Should Know,' Tru illustrates his commitment to amplifying black voices, creating platforms for dialogue, and fostering community through interdisciplinary sound practices. The episode showcases Tru's dedication to merging personal growth with collective empowerment, celebrating the transformative power of sound and its role in shaping cultural narratives.
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.
In this continuation of the two part episode of "Ear Expansion with Morgan Craft", LaMont Hamilton and Morgan Craft delve deeper into the intricacies of Craft’s musical journey, his philosophies, and his distinctive approach to live performance and studio work. They explore Craft's method of blending mathematical concepts with improvisational music, particularly highlighting his live performance and its philosophical underpinnings. Craft discusses his fascination with the intersection of music, physics, and incompleteness theory, elaborating on how these elements inform his creative process and live performances. The conversation also touches on Craft's belief in the transformative power of sound and its potential to navigate between the finite and the infinite, with Craft sharing his aspirations for future explorations in music. The dialogue is rich with Craft's reflections on the dynamic interaction between performer and audience, his rigorous approach to his studio albums, and an underlying quest for a deeper, almost spiritual engagement with sound, emphasizing his commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression.
In this first of a two part episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a deep and sprawling conversation with musician Morgan Craft. Morgan shares his journey of musical evolution, from being an isolated metalhead in Minneapolis, discovering a passion for avant-garde and improvised music, to his adventures in New York City, where he encountered his heroes and eventually found his unique voice through solo electric guitar improvisation. Morgan's narrative is one of relentless curiosity and dedication to pushing the boundaries of music, a journey marked by moments of personal transformation, including a significant stint in Italy to redefine his artistic path. Throughout the episode, Morgan reflects on the influence of key figures like Greg Tate, Butch Morris, and the impact of the Black Rock Coalition, while also delving into his philosophy on improvisation, the importance of progression in the arts, and the struggles of being recognized in the contemporary avant-garde scene.
In this episode of "Ear Expansion," the host LaMont Hamilton engages in a rich and reflective conversation with Akeema-Zane, exploring her multifaceted journey as an artist. The conversation delves into Akeema-Zane's formative years, her hesitant embrace of her artistic identity, and the development of her unique sound, heavily influenced by her background, community connections, and the intersection of literature, poetry and sound in her work. Akeema-Zane shares insights into her creative process, highlighting the role of introspection, the influences of her matriarchal family lineage, and her experiences in New York City that collectively shape her approach to art and sound. The discussion also touches on themes of mourning, rebirth, and community, providing a window into Akeema-Zane's personal and artistic evolution. Through the dialogue, the episode paints a portrait of an artist deeply connected to her roots, striving to create meaningful and transformative sonic landscapes.
This conversation between LaMont Hamilton and Maria Luiza de Barros on Ear Expansion delves deep into the intersections of sound, space, and Black diasporic practices in Maria’s work. Maria, sharing her journey from Brazil and her engagements with various sonic and spatial practices, emphasizes the significance of sound in understanding and interacting with urban environments and architecture from a perspective deeply rooted in Afro-diasporic traditions. The dialogue navigates through Maria's academic pursuits, her personal history with sound, and the development of her platform, vi.bra.tions, as a space for exploring critical perspectives on city planning, architecture, and sound. The discussion also touches upon partying (festa) as a form of resistance and expression of Black joy and resilience, underpinning the theoretical and practical dimensions of Maria's work. LaMont and Maria explore the layered relationship of sound to personal memory, collective identity, spatial politics, and the potential for future engagements, emphasizing the integral role of sonic experiences in shaping our understanding of space and community.
In ttheir episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound conversation with artist Zekarias Thompson, exploring Thompson's multifaceted relationship with sound, spanning their communal practice in Oakland and Reykjavik, to their artistic journey through the saxophone and immersive soundscapes. Thompson shares insights into their creative process, highlighting the importance of community, spontaneous composition, and the transformative power of sound to navigate and articulate complex emotional landscapes. Through discussing projects like the Musele Project and their albums "Goodnight Shiva" and the forthcoming "The Meeting Place," Thompson reveals their commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound and music, fostering spaces for communal creation, and exploring the sonic embodiment of emotions and cultural narratives. The episode is a rich tapestry of reflections on personal growth, artistic exploration, and the communal aspects of musical improvisation.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton is in conversation with Nelson Bandela. This dialogue traverses the multifaceted landscape of Bandela's creative journey and philosophies. From discussing Bandela's formative years influenced by a rich artistic family background in Dallas, Texas, where his parents and siblings were and currently are immersed in artistic endeavors, to exploring Bandela's multifarious creative outputs that span music, filmmaking, and beyond, the dialogue delves deep. It further explores Bandela's work, particularly focusing on his experimental and healing sound projects like MedMuse and 7thSense, aiming to connect with listeners on a somatic level through specific frequencies for healing. Bandela shares insights into his artistic process, his aspirations to influence and change the sound of music through a communal yet individuated approach, and his thoughts on creating music that aims to transform.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton is in conversation with multi-hyphen artist Sholeh Asgary. In this expansive and engaging conversation, Asgary delves into her artistic transition from visual mediums to sound, exploring the profound influence of her cultural background, personal experiences, and philosophical musings on her work. Asgary articulates her journey through the realms of photography, installation and sound, as she reflects on her early works, and discusses the thematic and conceptual connections between various pieces and installations. This discussion brings to light Asgary's contemplative engagement with sound as a medium to navigate and express the complexities of identity, displacement, and creative exploration. Through her thoughtful responses, Asgary reveals the depth of her practice, blending the sonic with the visual and memory, uncovering the connectivity of sound, space, and self.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a detailed and expansive conversation with composer Anthony R. Green. Green shares insights into his diverse sonic upbringing, diverse musical influences ranging from gospel and R&B to classical music, and his evolution into a composer and performance artist. Green recounts his formative years, influenced by the musical diversity experienced through his family in Rhode Island and Virginia, and his academic journey from piano to composition. He delves into his work, particularly emphasizing his passion for exploring the contributions and legacies of African American composers, his collaborative venture "Castle of Our Skins," and his commitment to social justice through art. Moreover, Green discusses his compositional philosophy illustrating how his pieces often challenge and reinterpret classical forms. The conversation illuminates Green's thoughtful approach to music, intertwining personal history, societal critique, and a quest for sonic innovation.
Welcome to Ear Expansion...I am your host LaMont Hamilton
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton is joined by LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs. This detailed and insightful conversation focused on her unique background in sound, particularly as a poet/vocalist/sonic experimentist, and her explorative journey with effects, synthesizers, and poetry in her performances. LaTasha shares her evolution from using her voice in unorthodox ways within the spoken word community to experimenting with electronic devices. She discusses the influences of artists and movements on her work, emphasizing improvisation, the fusion of the sonic aspects of language, and the integration of digital loops, which create multifaceted soundscapes. LaTasha also elaborates on her performance work, such as "Penny wasn't pulling no wagon," highlighting themes of labor, matriarchy, and the complexity of black identity. The dialogue encompasses her artistic philosophy, her engagement with language as sound texture, and how her performances act as a medium for trans-lingual and cultural communication, ultimately providing a profound insight into her creative process and the influences that shape her artistry.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, a conversation unfolds between LaMont Hamilton and Roman Norfleet, centering around Norfleet's journey and insights as a deeply spiritual and musically innovative individual. Norfleet shares his journey with sound, diving into his deep connection with various communities, painting a vivid picture of a vibrant, continuation of Black Art traditions. The discussion delves into the spiritual dimension of Norfleet's music, touching on themes like communal ritual, the ephemeral nature of sound, and the blending of the cosmic with the rootedness of earthly existence. Influences from the past, including the avant-garde jazz movement and Afrocentric spirituality, frame Norfleet's sound and ethos. Throughout, the conversation shifts through notions of sound as a transformative medium, from the vibrating energies of the body to the creation of sacred spaces through breathwork and instrumentation. Albums like "Death's Door" and "Kali Yunga" are discussed as manifestos of Norfleet's sonic exploration of life, death, and the contemporary state of the world, culminating in a reflective exchange on the essence of sound, its impact, and its preservation into the future.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound conversation with Sham-e Ali Nayeem, delving into the intersections of sound, poetry, and personal history. Through a reflective dialogue, Sham-e Ali shares her journey from poetry, to integrating sound into her artistic expression. This discussion further explores themes of Islamic and Sufi poetry's connection to music, the historical interweaving of sound and lyrical expression across cultures, and the deep, intricate layers of meaning and history in Sham-e Ali's albums "City of Pearls" and "Moti Ka Sheher." These works, as described, are not just artistic expressions but also deeply personal explorations of identity, exile, and the power of sound to transcend physical and temporal boundaries. The conversation encapsulates Sham-e Ali's thoughtful approach to sound as a medium for exploring grief, resistance, and the assertion of existence despite erasure.
In this episode Ear Expansion our guest Zachary James Watkins is in conversation with host LaMont Hamilton. This conversation explores Watkins' profound journey in the realm of sound and music, touching upon his early influences, his unique compositional techniques, and the philosophical underpinnings of his work. Watkins dives deep into his childhood, marked by a rich artistic environment and pivotal encounters. This conversation highlights Watkins' education and formative experiences with mentors like Pauline Oliveros, and his artistic evolution that integrates a meticulous approach to sound, a dedication to improvisation, and a keen sense of the emotive power of music. Watkins also discusses his recent album "Affirmative Action," revealing his intentions behind its creation, the collaborative nature of its compositions, and its socio-political context. Reflecting on his sound practice, Watkins shares insights into the complex layers of his work, from its technical aspects to its narrative depth, demonstrating a profound commitment to pushing the boundaries of sonic art.
In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a deep and revealing conversation with artist Joel St. Julien. Against the backdrop of a sunny day in San Francisco, Joel shares the profound influence of his Haitian heritage, early experiences with sound, and his journey through music and sound art. Joel discusses his artistic evolution, from his initial fascination with the Casio SK 1 and the immersive experience of Radiohead's albums to his deep dive into contemporary electronic and ambient music. His exploration of sound is both a personal and spiritual practice, where instruments like the guitar and modular synthesizer become tools for innovation. Joel's work, encapsulated in albums like "Unblend" and "Dream," reflects a continuous process of experimentation, integration of diverse influences, and a quest for new sonic landscapes. The conversation also touches on themes of empathy, grief, and the therapeutic power of music, showcasing Joel's commitment to creating beauty amidst the complexities of the human condition and societal challenges.
In this expansive dialogue from Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages with BSA Gold, delving into her musical journey, starting from her early experiences with the flute to her evolving as a musician and producer, eventually fully embracing her unique sonic identity. BSA Gold reflects on the poignant impact of Saturn Return, her album, and its connection to personal growth, exploration of self, and emergence as an artist. Throughout, she discusses the influence of her background, her approach to curating music spaces, and the intricacies of her practice, including the significance of breath in her work as a flautist. The conversation explores themes of transcendence, self-discovery, and the blending of various soundscapes and influences to create her distinctive sound, highlighting her passion for music and its power to evoke emotion, connect with listeners, and convey her innermost thoughts and experiences.
En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.