The Holmes Archive of Electronic Music

More Black Techno Matters

Episode 76
More Black Techno Matters
 
Playlist
 
Drexciya, “Digital Tsunami” from Harnessed The Storm (2002 Tresor). “Filtered through dimensional waves by Drexciya.”
Drexciya, “Aquatic Cataclysm” from Harnessed The Storm (2002 Tresor). “Filtered through dimensional waves by Drexciya.”
Green Velvet, “Sleepwalking” from Whatever (2001 Music Man Records). Produced, programmed, and written by Green Velvet.
Jlin, “Black Origami” from Black Origami (2017 Planet Mu). Produced by Jerrilynn Patton. Gary, Indiana.
3MB Featuring 'Magic' Juan Atkins, “Die Kosmischen Kuriere” from 3MB Feat. Magic Juan Atkins E.P. (1993 NovaMute). Producer, written and mixed by Juan Atkins, Moritz von Oswald, Thomas Fehlmann.
Loraine James, “Let’s Go” from Reflection (2021 Hyperdub). Produced by Loraine James.
Hand, “Calling” from Intuition EP (2015 Acacia). Detroit. Produced, written, and arranged by K. Hand.
Loraine James, “Loll” from Detail (2017 Fu Inle Records). Produced by Loraine James.
Hand, “Everybody (Tommy Largo Remix)” from Intuition EP (2015 Acacia). Detroit. Produced, written, and arranged by K. Hand.
Hand, “Aquatics” from Hot Steel. (2020 Trip Recordings). Produced, written, and arranged by K. Hand (Kelli Maria Hand). This was the result of receiving an invite from musician Nina Kraviz who sent out a call to artists to stream one of their unreleased works; all genres are welcome. After the stream took place, the favourite tracks were signed to produce the Hot Steel release. Available on Bandcamp.
LTJ Bukem, “Rainfall” from Raw Music Material - Electronic Music DJs Today (2002 Not on Label). Composed, played, and mixed by LTJ Bukem.
Robert Hood. “Kick Dirt” from Raw Music Material - Electronic Music DJs Today (2002 Not on Label). Music by Robert Hood.
Robert Hood. “Parade” from Internal Empire (1994 Tresor). Detroit. Music by Robert Hood.
Scan 7, “Dark Corridor” from Dark Territory (1996 Tresor). Scan 7 a collective of Detroit techno artists, led by Lou Robinson and including DJ Red Line.
Scan 7, “Dark Territory” from Dark Territory (1996 Tresor). Scan 7 a collective of Detroit techno artists, led by Lou Robinson and including DJ Red Line.
Venus Ex Machina, “Blood Moon (Solar Mix)” from Lux. (2021 AD93). Ex Machina is a composer, sound designer and interdisciplinary artist based in the UK.
Venus Ex Machina, “Mysterium ” from Lux. (2021 AD93). Venus Ex Machina is a composer, sound designer and interdisciplinary artist based in the UK.
Venus Ex Machina, “Quaraquara” from Lux. (2021 AD93). Venus Ex Machina is a composer, sound designer and interdisciplinary artist based in the UK.
Jeff Mills, “IOK-1” from The Universe: Galaxy 1 (2022 Axis). Written, performed, and produced by Jeff Mills.
Jeff Mills, “IOK-4” from The Universe: Galaxy 1 (2022 Axis). Written, performed, and produced by Jeff Mills.
Jeff Mills, “The Speed Of Light” from The Universe: Galaxy 1 (2022 Axis). Written, performed, and produced by Jeff Mills.
Jeff Mills, “Canis Major Overdensity” from The Universe: Galaxy 1 (2022 Axis). Written, performed, and produced by Jeff Mills.
Opening background music: Jeff Mills, “Spider Formation” from The Other Day (1997 Axis). Written, performed, and produced by Jeff Mills.
Connect with Black Techno Matters and Bernard Farley.
Listen to the Blackness is Revolutionary playlist on Spotify. As of this podcast, this playlist curated by Bernard Farley features more than 1,100 techno tracks by black artists.
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.

Black Techno Matters

Episode 75
Black Techno Matters
 
Playlist
Frankie Knuckles. Baby Wants To Ride. (1987 D.J. International). Vocals by Jamie Principle. South Bronx, New York. Written, produced, and instrumentation by Frankie Knuckles (Francis Nicholls). 6:43
Juan Atkins, “Bassmental” from 3MB Feat. Magic Juan Atkins (1992 Tresor). Detroit. Written, produced, and played by Juan Atkins. 9:01
Dave Angel, “Endless Motions” from 3rd Voyage (1993 R&S Records). Produced, programmed, and written by Dave Angel. 4:28
Green Velvet, “Conniption” from Velvet Tracks (1993 Relief Records). Produced, programmed, and written by Green Velvet (Curtis Alan Jones). 18:17
Robert Hood. “Spirit Levels” from Internal Empire (1994 Tresor). Detroit. Music by Robert Hood. 5:06
Hand, “I Remember When” from On a Journey. (1995 !K7 Records). Produced, written, and arranged by K. Hand (Kelli Maria Hand), Detroit. 9:15
Scan 7. “Beyond Sound” from Dark Territory (1996 Tresor). Scan 7 a collective of Detroit techno artists, led by Lou Robinson and including DJ Red Line. 6:25
Green Velvet. Flash (Original Mix) from Flash (Remixes) (2000 F-111 Records). Produced, programmed, and written by Green Velvet. 5:47
Hand, “Rain-Interlude” from “Detroit History” Part 1. (2001 Acacia). Detroit. Produced, written, and arranged by K. Hand. 1:38
Hand, “Riverfront” from “Detroit History” Part 1. (2001 Acacia). Detroit. Produced, written, and arranged by K. Hand. 5:52
Outputmessage (Bernard Farley), “REM State” from Oneiros (2004 Echelon Productions). Written, performed, and produced by Bernard Farley. 4:33
Hand. “Intuition” from Intuition EP. (2015 Acacia). Detroit. Produced, written, and arranged by K. Hand. 4:25
Jlin, “Enigma” from Black Origami (2017 Planet Mu). Produced by Jerrilynn Patton. Gary, Indiana. 3:48
Loraine James, “To the Left, to the West,” from Detail (2017 Fu Inle Records). London. 6:03
Jeff Mills, “Many Many Worlds” from The Universe Chapter 1 (2020 Axis). Produced, mixed, and edited by Jeff Mills. 4:40
Jeff Mills, The Speed of Light” from The Universe Chapter 1 (2020 Axis). Produced, mixed, and edited by Jeff Mills. 2:44
Venus Ex Machina. “Avril” from Lux. (2021 AD93). UK-based artist. Venus Ex Machina is a composer, sound designer and interdisciplinary artist based in the UK. 2:23
Venus Ex Machina. “Elephant” from Lux. (2021 AD93). UK-based artist. Venus Ex Machina is a composer, sound designer and interdisciplinary artist based in the UK. 4:20
Opening background music: Outputmessage (Bernard Farley), “Switch” from Oneiros (2004 Echelon Productions). Written, performed, and produced by Bernard Farley.
Connect with Black Techno Matters and Bernard Farley.
Listen to the Blackness is Revolutionary playlist on Spotify. As of this podcast, this playlist curated by Bernard Farley features more than 1,100 techno tracks by black artists.
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.

The Polyphonic Synth Journey of Fusion Jazz

Episode 74
The Polyphonic Synth Journey of Fusion Jazz
 
Playlist
Jan Hammer, “Darkness / Earth In Search Of A Sun” from The First Seven Days (1975 Atlantic). I am including two versions of the same track from Jan Hammer, a master synthesist who moved from monophonic to polyphonic synths gradually, making the best used of the expressive qualities of each technologh. This track is from 1975 and uses Oberheim modules, probably the 2-voice or even 4-voice, but along with the Minimoog and what sounds like an uncredited Mellotron. Hammer was insistent in the notes for this solo album that none of the sounds were made with the guitar. This makes the contrast of this track with the next version performed live with Jeff Beck and even more interesting contrast. Producer, Engineer, Piano, Electric Piano, Moog and Oberheim synthesizers, Drums, Percussion, Composer, Jan Hammer. 4:30
Jeff Beck With The Jan Hammer Group, “Darkness/Earth In Search Of A Sun” from Live (1977 Atlantic). Here is the same tune written by Hammer for his solo album, now performed live with Jeff Beck. I think one can assume that all soloing in done on a Minimoog while all other synth sounds, including strings, are provided by the Oberheim modules and Freeman string synth. Bass, Fernando Saunders; Drums, Tony Smith; Guitar, Effects, Jeff Beck; Moog, Oberheim, and Freeman synthesizers, Electric Piano, Timbales, Jan Hammer; violin, string synthesizer, Steve Kindler. 7:55
Billy Cobham, “Leaward Winds” from Magic (1977 CBS). Early days of the Oberheim polyphonic, used again as background comping and fills to back-up the guitar and piano leads. Bass, Randy Jackson; Guitar, Peter Maunu; Piano, Oberheim Synthesizer, Mark Soskin; drums, producer, Billy Cobham. 3:38
Herbie Hancock, “Hang Up Your Hang Ups” from Man-Child (1975 Columbia). Along with Jan Hammer, Herbie Hancock was an early pioneer of using polyphonic synths in his ensemble. While I don’t hear the Oberheim module being played until about the 5:30 mark in this track, I wanted to include it because Hancock uses many synths at his disposal to achieve the overall sound. The next two tracks from the Eddie Henderson album Mahal used a similar but updated keyboard ensemble, including the Oberheim 8-voice polyphonic and Prophet 5 synths. Bass, Henry Davis, Louis Johnson, Paul Jackson; Drums, Harvey Mason, James Gadson, Mike Clark; Guitar, David T. Walker, Blackbird McKnight; Guitar, Synthesizer, Melvin "Wah Wah" Watson; Percussion, Bill Summers; Piano, Fender Rhodes, Arp Odyssey, Pro Soloist, 2600, String Ensemble, Oberheim Polyphonic Synthesizer, Hohner D6 Clavinet, Herbie Hancock; Saxophone, Flute, Ernie Watts, Jim Horn; Soprano Saxophone, Wayne Shorter; Soprano Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Saxello, Bass Clarinet, Bass Flute, Alto Flute, Bennie Maupin; Trombone, Garnett Brown; Trumpet, Bud Brisbois, Jay DaVersa; Tuba, Bass Trombone, Dick Hyde. 7:27
Eddie Henderson, “Cyclops” from Mahal (1978 Capitol). Bass, Paul Jackson (2); Congas, Percussion, Bill Summers; Drums, Howard King; Fender Rhodes, Clavinet, ARP 2600, Oberheim 8 Voice Polyphonic, Prophet-5, ARP Strings Ensemble, Minimoog, Yamaha CS-80 Polyphonic synthesizers, Herbie Hancock; Flute, Hubert Laws; Guitar, Ray Obiedo; Piano [Acoustic], Mtume; Prophet-5 Programming, John Bowen; Tenor Saxophone, Saxophone [Saxello], Bennie Maupin; Trombone, Julian Priester; Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Eddie Henderson. 5:19
Eddie Henderson, “Prance On” from Mahal (1978 Capitol). Bass, Paul Jackson (2); Congas, Percussion, Bill Summers; Drums, Howard King; Fender Rhodes, Clavinet, ARP 2600, Oberheim 8 Voice Polyphonic, Prophet-5, ARP Strings Ensemble, Minimoog, Yamaha CS-80 Polyphonic synthesizers, Herbie Hancock; Flute, Hubert Laws; Guitar, Ray Obiedo; Piano [Acoustic], Mtume; Prophet-5 Programming, John Bowen; Tenor Saxophone, Saxophone [Saxello], Bennie Maupin; Trombone, Julian Priester; Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Eddie Henderson. 5:17
Rolf Kühn. “Cucu Ear” from Cucu Ear (1980 MPS Records). This German disc features keyboardist Rolf Kühn and highlights the Roland Jupiter 4, a 4-voice polyphonic synth. Bass, N.-H. Ø Pedersen; Clarinet, Roland Sting Synthesizer, Roland Jupiter 4 Synthesizer, Roland Amps, Rolf Kühn; Drums, Alphonse Mouzon; Engineer, Walter Quintus; Guitar, Peter Weihe, Philip Catherine; Steinway Acoustic, Fender Rhodes pianos, Roland Amps and Echoes, Joachim Kühn; Reeds, Charlie Mariano, Herb Geller; Trombone, Egon Christmann, Wolfgang Ahlers; Trumpet, Klaus Blodau, Larry Elam, Mannie Moch, Paul Kubatsch. 5:05
Rolf Kühn. “Key-Alliance” from Cucu Ear (1980 MPS Records). On this track the Roland Jupiter 4 is played by Joachim Kühn, brother of Rolf. Bass, N.-H. Ø Pedersen; Clarinet, Roland Sting Synthesizer, Roland Amps, Rolf Kühn; Drums, Alphonse Mouzon; Engineer, Walter Quintus; Guitar, Peter Weihe, Philip Catherine; Steinway Acoustic, Roland Jupiter 4 Synthesizer, Fender Rhodes pianos, Roland Amps and Echoes, Joachim Kühn; Reeds, Charlie Mariano, Herb Geller; Trombone, Egon Christmann, Wolfgang Ahlers; Trumpet, Klaus Blodau, Larry Elam, Mannie Moch, Paul Kubatsch. 5:41
Didier Lockwood, “Ballade Des Fees (Quartet Without Drums)” from Live In Montreux (1980 Disques JMS). Look who’s featured on this album by French violinist Dider Lockwood—it’s Jan Hammer again. Only this time he’s using an unnamed “polyphonic synthesizer.” Your guess is as good as mine on this one, although he was using Oberheim and Yamaha CP70 keyboards around this same time. Bass, Bo Stief; Drums, Gerry Brown; Rhythm Guitar, Marc Perru; Polyphonic Synthesizer, Jan Hammer; Tenor Saxophone, Bob Malach; Violin, Didier Lockwood. 4:50
Didier Lockwood, “Fast Travel” from Live In Montreux (1980 Disques JMS). Another track with Jan Hammer using an unnamed polyphonic synth. There is a really smart Minimoog solo beginning as about 1:21, polyphonic fills are most apparent around beginning around 4:08. Bass, Bo Stief; Drums, Gerry Brown; Rhythm Guitar, Marc Perru; Polyphonic Synthesizer, Jan Hammer; Tenor Saxophone, Bob Malach; Violin, Didier Lockwood. 7:06
Georges Acogny, “Karimagie” from First Steps In (1981 String). This track uses a Polymoog effectively for some nice runs and comping, beginning around 3:40. I do not know what instrument was used to create the the white noise heard in the opening and throughout since I don’t believe you could do that with the Polymoog. Bass, Dominique Bertram; Composed By, Khalil Chahine; Drums, Paco Sery; Guitar, Georges Acogny, Kamil Rustam; Percussion, Sydney Thiam; Piano, Patrick Gauthier; Soloist [Acoustic Guitar], Larry Coryell; Soloist [Bass], Nicolas Fizman; Soloist [Electric Guitar], Kamil Rustam; Polymoog synthesizer, Rachid Bahri. 8:30
Georges Acogny, “1st La Rosée” from First Steps In (1981 String). Acogny is a guitar player so the polyphonic synth tends to play a supporting role to the string work on this track. In this case, the Prophet 5 is used, most notably at about 30 seconds into the track. Bass, Nicolas Fizman, Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes], Olivier Hutman, Guitar, Kamil Rustam, Guitar [Ovation], Georges Acogny, Piano, Jean-Pierre Fouquey, Soloist [Trombone], Hamid Belhocine, Prophet 5 Synthesizer, Didier Egea. 4:37
Combo FH, “Zelený Muž (Green Man)” from Věci (Things) (1981 Panton). Here is a short track that uses the Italian-made Farfisa Syntorchestra, a rare keyboard made in 1978 that had a split keyboard, part polyphonic string synthesizer and part monophone synth section. Mostly used on European tracks by German composers including Klaus Schulze, here is an unusual jazz fusion example from a group in the Czechoslovakia. This group was known for its unusual instrumentation, including lead bassoon heard on this track. Bass Guitar, Václav Pátek; Bassoon, Percussion, Milan Sládek; Percussion, Richard Mader; Organ, Farfisa Syntorchestra synthesizers, Percussion, Leader, Daniel Fikejz; Percussion, Bořivoj Suchý. 1:48
String Connection, “Quasi String Waltz” from Workoholic (1982 PolJazz). Recorded in Poland and distributed by the Polish Jazz Society. This album features some strings sounds played on the Polymoog, which was still being used for its unique sounds even by this late date, because the Polymoog had been retired by this time. Listen for fills and chords beginning around 1:08. Bass Guitar [Gitara Basowa], Krzysztof Ścierański; Drums [Perkusja], Zbigniew Lewandowski; Piano [Fortepian Akstyczny], Violin [Skrypce], Polymoog Synthesizer, Krzesimir Dębski; Piano, Hammond Organ , Polymoog Synthesizer, Trombone [Puzon], Janusz Skowron; Tenor Saxophone [Saxoton Tenorowy], Soprano Saxophone [Saxofon Sopranowy], Andrzej Olejniczak. 3:19
Mike Elliott, “For Janny” from Diffusion (1983 Celebration). Another interesting album of guitar-based fusion jazz with synthesizer touches. Seemingly self-produced in Minnesota. Although the Minimoog is also used on this recording, I selected a track that was primarily using the Polymoog, beginning around 50 seconds. Fender Bass, Rick Houle; Drums, Gordy Knudtson; Flugelhorn, Bobby Peterson; Gibson ES-347 guitar, Ryoji Matsuoka Flamenco guitars, solid body kalimba; Mike Elliott; grand piano, Polymoog and Mini-Moog synthesizers, Ricky Peterson; Producer, Mike Elliott. 4:42
Martin Kratochvíl & Jazz Q, “Trhanec (The Muffin)” from Hvězdoň Asteroid (1984 Supraphon). From Czechoslovakia, a brilliant ensemble of musicians led by keyboardst Martin Kratochvíl. Here is another mix of monophonic synths and the polyphonic Oberheim 4-voice, heard in the opening riff that’s repeated throughout. Bass Guitar, Přemysl Faukner; Drums [Bicí Nástroje], Pavol Kozma; Electric Guitar [El. Kytara], Twelve-String Guitar, Fender Rhodes, Minimoog, ARP Omni, Oberheim 4-Voice Polyphonic synthesizers, Leader [Vedoucí], Engineer [Recording], Recording Supervisor [Recording Director], Martin Kratochvíl. 4:34
Opening background music: Short piece by Thom Holmes using the Arturia Prophet 5 plug-in.
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.

Music About Computers

Playlist
Computer Magic (Danielle Johnson), “Data” from Danz (2018 Channel 9 Records). US. Written, Recorded, Arranged, Produced, Mixed, Mastered by, Danielle Johnson. 1:57
Angie, “The Computer Did” from The Computer Did (1984 Munich Records). Netherlands. Producer, A. Bredehoft, C. Wegener, K. Marvin; Technician, Wil Hesen; Written by C. Wegener. 3:15
Kraftwerk, “Computer Love” from Computer World (1981 EMI). Germany. Hardware, Matten & Wiechers Bonn, Peter Bollig, Mr. Lab & Friend Chip Berlin, Hermann Poertner, Gerd Rothe; Software, Guenter Froehling, Emil Schult, Pit Franke, Karl Klefisch, Computergraphics System Bernd Gericke Erlangen, Falk Kuebler, Martin Tewis, Carol Martin, Takeshi Shikura, Ian Flooks, Marvin Katz, Maxime Schmitt, Ralf Hutter, Karl Bartos, Wolfgang Flur, Florian Schneider. Kling Klang Studio: Joachim Dehmann, Guenter Spachtholz. 7:17
Little Computer People Project (Anthony Rother), “Little Computer People (Karl Bartos Remix)” from Little Computer People (Remixes) (1998 Psi49net). Germany. Produced, Performed by The Little Computer People Project (Anthony Rother); remixed by Karl Bartos. 5:31
Doris Norton, “Parallel Interface” from Personal Computer (Durium 1984). Italy. Arranged, composed, synthesizers by Doris Norton; keyboards, Antonio Bartoccetti. 4:27
The Microbes, “Computer” from Computer (1980 DJM Records). UK. Produced, Written by, C. Chiappe, J. Chegwin, O. Falquero. 2:32
Zapp & Roger Featuring Shirley Murdock and Charlie Wilson, “Computer Love” from The New Zapp IV U (1985 Warner Brothers). US. Produced, written by, Larry “Zap” Troutman, Roger Troutman; mixed by Roger Troutman. Backing Vocals Aaron Blackmon, Billy Beck, Bobby Glover, Charlie Wilson, Dale Degroat, Donna Sloss, Gregory Jackson, Jannetta Boyce, Ray Davis, Rhonda Stevens, Robert Jones, Roger Troutman, Shirley Murdock, Wanda Rash, Zapp Troutman; Bass Guitar, Aaron Blackmon, Roger Troutman, Zapp Troutman; Drums, Damian Black, Lester Troutman, Edited by Zapp Troutman; Horns, Carl Cowen, Jerome Derrickson, Michael Warren, Robert Jones; Keyboards, Bernie Worrell, Billy Beck, Dale Degroat, Greg Jackson, Roger Troutman, Zapp Troutman; Lead Guitar, Rhythm Guitar, Aaron Blackmon, Roger Troutman; Lead Vocals Greg Jackson; Mixed by Lester Troutman, Zapp Troutman; Percussion, Larry Troutman, Lester Troutman, Robert "Kuumba" Jones. 4:43
Raymond Scott, “IBM Probe” from Manhattan Research Inc. (2000 Basta). US. Music from 1963-64. Outtakes from the music and sound effects created for the promotion of the IBM MT/ST (Magnetic Tape/Selectric Typewriter), an early word processor. Remember those? 1:54
Ugliman, “Computer” from Computer (1985 10 Roosevelt Ave.). Jamaica. Producer, Harry J; Written by H. Johnson, R. Crawford. 4:00
Ikue Mori, “Abacus—Blue Parrot” from Garden (1996 Tzadik). US. Composer, performer, producer, drum Machines, effects, Ikue Mori. 10:57
Jóhann Jóhannsson, “IBM 1401 Computer Manual” (2006 4AD). UK/Iceland. The IBM 1401 was a mainframe computer introduced by IBM in 1959. Orchestra, The City Of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra; Orchestrated by Arnar Bjarnason, Jóhann Jóhannsson; Hammond B3 organ, Piano, Celesta, Bells, Jóhann Jóhannsson; IBM 1401 Data Processing System recorded by Elías Davídsson, Jóhann Gunnarsson, Örn Kaldalóns; Written, arranged, produced by Jóhann Jóhannsson. Jóhannsson’s father had worked as an engineer on this computer and recorded some musical snippets when the machine was retired in 1971 that were used by his son to make parts of this recording. “The orchestra was recorded at Barrandov Studios, Smecky Soundstage in Prague in September 2005. Additional recordings were made in Reykjavik, Skálholt, Florence, Madrid, Zurich, Piran and Rennes during the period 2003-2006. Mixed in Syrland, Reykjavik in February 2006. Tracks two and three feature the voice of "an unknown instructor from an IBM 1401 Data Processing System maintenance instruction tape found in my father’s attic. All electronic sounds were derived from the IBM 1401 Data Processing System and the Hammond B3 organ with Ring Modulator, Distortion and Filter pedals. The music and sounds of the IBM 1401 Data Processing System were recorded by Jóhann Gunnarsson, Örn Kaldalóns and Elías Davídsson in Reykjavik in 1971. The musical fragment played by the computer is from the hymn "Ísland Ögrum Skorid" by Sigvaldi Kaldalóns, used by kind permission. 42:25
         The work is organized as follows:
               Part 1 / IBM 1401 Processing Unit
               Part 2 / IBM 1403 Printer
               Part 3 / IBM 1402 Card Read-Punch
               Part 4 / IBM 729 II Magnetic Tape Unit
               Part 5 / The Sun's Gone Dim and The Sky's Turned Black
12. Kate Bush, “Deeper Understanding” from Director's Cut (2011 Fish People). UK. A different edit from the official album version. Bass, John Giblin; Computer, Albert McIntosh; Drums, Steve Gadd; Harmonica, Brendan Power; Written, produced, vocals, keyboards, Kate Bush; Performer (Beryl Van Heem), Hazel Pethig; Performer (Professor Need), Terry Jones; Performer (Toll), Remi Butler; Vocals, Trio Bulgarka; Vocals Featuring, Yanka Rupkhina. 4:53
Opening background music: Outputmessage (Bernard Farley), “Switch” from Oneiros (2004 Echelon Productions). Written, performed, and produced by Bernard Farley.
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.

Remembering Klaus Schulze

Episode 72
Remembering Klaus Schulze
Playlist
1. Klaus Schulze, “Synphära” from Cyborg (1973 Kosmische Musik). Recorded at Klaus Schulze Studio. Cello, Contrabass, Flute, Violin, Cosmic Orchestra; Composer, Organ, EMS VCS3 Synthesizer, Vocals, Percussion, Klaus Schulze. 22:55
2. Klaus Schulze, “Some Velvet Phasing” from Blackdance (1974 Brain). Recorded at Delta Acoustic Studio, Berlin. Bass Vocals, Ernst Walter Siemon; Composer, mixer, producer, EMS VCS3, Synthesizer, Organ, Piano, Percussion, Trumpet, 12-String Acoustic Guitar, Orchestra, Klaus Schulze. 7:56
3. Klaus Schulze, “Totem” from Picture Music (1975 Brain). Recorded at Klaus Schulze-Studio, Berlin, 1973. EMS VCS3 Synthesizer; ARP Synthesizer Odyssey (Strings; Percussion on 'Totem'); ARP Synthesizer 2600 (Solo-Voice); Farfisa Professional Duo Organ; Drums, Percussion, Phaser, Echo-Dolby-Revox, Quadro Teak-Tape recorder, 16 channel-Barth-mixer. 23:02
4. Klaus Schulze, “Mindphaser” from Moondawn (1976 Brain). Recorded at Panne-Paulsen Studios. Composer, producer, “The Big Moog” synthesizer, ARP 2600, ARP Odyssey, EMS Synthi A, Farfisa Synthorchestra], Farfisa Professional organ, Crumar keyboard, Sequencer Synthanorma 3-12 sequencer, Klaus Schulze. This was the first album for which Schulze used a Moog Modular Synthesizer, which he had acquired from Florian Fricke of Popul Vuh. 25:05
5. Klaus Schulze, “Crystal Lake” (Xylotones, Chromwave, Willowdreams, Liquid Mirrors, Springdance, A Bientot)” from Mirage (1977 Brain). Recorded at Panne-Paulsen Studios. “An Electronic Winter Landscape. Dedicated to Hans Dieter Schulze.” Schulze provided detailed notes inside the album about his electronic music systems as well as the “PA system” for his live shows, which had become coveted events by this time. Here I’ve transcribed it for you. 29:06
Instruments:
ARP Odyssey, ARP 2600 + Sequencer, 2 Mini Moog, Micro Moog, Poly Moog, Moog CIIs (4 Units + 2 Sequencer) The Musical Universe, EMS Synthi A, Farfisa String Orchestra, Farfisa Synthorchestra, Farfisa Professional Duo Organ, 3 Crumar Keyboards, 2 PPG Synthi + Computer Sequencer, 12 Octave Filter Moog, Octave Filter Bank Ems, 2 Revox A77 Dolby + Speed Control For Echo, AKG Bx20 Reverb Unit, AKG Bx15 Reverb Unit, Compact “A” Phaser Specially Built By K. Schulte/Berlin.
PA System:
Dynacord, 8 Bi00 Bass Cabinet 1 X 15 Gauss, 2 Bass Cabinet 2 X 15 J.B.L., 4 Di000 Cabinet 1 X 15 Gauss, 8 H60 Horn J.B.L./Gauss/Electro Voice, 56 Pt7 Tweeter Piezzo, 2 Phase Linear 700 Amp, 2 Phase Linear 400 Amp, 2 Klerk Tennik 27 Bank Graphics, 1 Spectrum Analyser, AKG Microphone.
Monitor System:
2 Bi00 as above 28 Pt7 As Above, 4 H60 As Above, 1 Phase Linear 700 Amp.
6. Klaus Schulze, “Frank Herbert” from "X" (1978 Brain). Recorded at Panne-Paulsen Studios. Moog Modular Synthesizer, PPG Synthesizer, Minimoog, ARP Odyssey, Korg Polyphonic, Polymoog, EMS Synthi A, Mellotron, Sequencer, Drums, Revox Echo, AKG Bx 20 Hall, Dynacord Speakers, Composed, Arranged, Recorded, Mixed, liner notes, and produced, Klaus Schulze; Drums, Harald Großkopf. “"This work is dedicated to my oh so dear synthesizers. Klaus Schulze.” "X." was recorded from January to summer 1978 in Frankfurt. 10:42
7. Klaus Schulze, “Dune” from Dune (1979 Brain). Produced, keyboards and synthesizers, text and music, Klaus Schulze; Cello, Wolfgang Tiepold; vocal, Shadows of Ignorance, Arthur Brown. The cover photograph was taken by Schulze, is a snapshot taken during a scene of the Soviet science fiction film Solaris. 30:05
Opening background music: Klaus Schulze, from Irrlicht: Quadrophonische Symphonie Für Orchester Und E-Maschinen (1972 Ohr).
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.

Contemporary Electronic Dance Music

Episode 71
Contemporary Electronic Dance Music
After doing my previous podcast about the vintage roots of electronic dance music, I said to myself, why not an episode featuring some examples of EDM as it stands today?
Collected here are sixteen examples from fourteen artists of what I call more extreme electronic dance music sounds. These tracks all share a few characteristics, as outlined in the last episode. These characteristics are the use of electronic sound sources, especially types that are easily programmed and operated in a live situation; music that is beat-driven and generally sparse on lyrics; a heavy reliance on repetition patterns and textures while preserving a spot for the artist to display some solo musicianship. The soloing may in fact come from manipulating various controls and buttons, or it may come from a more overtly inserted musical passage played on a keyboard, all to inject a touch of personal expression to the automation.
Here is a selection of tracks from around the globe, showing how EDM has become somewhat culturally agnostic.
Playlist
Chris & Cosey, “Fantastique” from Muzik Fantastique! (1992 Play It Again Sam Records). Written-By, Performer, Chris Carter And Cosey Fanni Tutti. UK duo.
Timmy Trumpet Feat. Mariana Bo, “Vivaldi (Extended Mix)” from Vivaldi (2022 Tomorrowland Music). From Mariana Bo, violinist, DJ and producer from Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico.
Sam Divine & CASSIMM, “What God Has Chosen” from What God Has Chosen (2017 DFTD). Producer, CASSIMM, Sam Divine; Written by Mary J. Blige. Sam Divine and CASSIMM are DJs and producers based in London, UK.
Deborah De Luca, “Anho” from Ten (2018 Sola_mente Records). Italian DJ and producer.
Charlotte De Witte, “Kali” from Universal Consciousness EP (2022 KNTXT). Belgian DJ and record producer.
Sam Divine & CASSIMM, “Can’t Stop the House” from In Da Nation EP (201 DFTD). Divine and CASSIMM are DJs and producers based in London, UK.
Nora En Pure, “Norma Jean” from Come With Me (2013 Enormous Tunes). Swiss/South African DJ and producer.
Peggy Gou, “Maktoop” from Seek For Maktoop (2016 Technicolour). Berlin-based South Korean DJ and producer.
Grimes, “‎Symphonia IX (My Wait Is U)” from Visions (2011 Arbutus Records). Grimes is the Canadian artist Claire Boucher best known for her work as a producer, singer, and songwriter.
Nina Kraviz, “Love or Go” from Nina Kraviz (2012 Rekids). Nina Kraviz (Нина Кравиц) is a Russian singer, producer, dentist, and DJ.
Monika Kruse Meets Pig&Dan, “Boogie Man” from Oblivion EP (2016 Terminal). Kruse is a German DJ and producer and founder of Terminal M; Pig&Dan are a DJ and producer duo based in Spain.
Monika Kruse, “Summer Drops (original)” from Summer Drops (2014 Terminal M). German DJ and producer and founder of Terminal M.
Amelie Lens, “Drift” from Contradiction (2017 Second State). Techno DJ and producer from Antwerp, Belgium.
Anne Savage Vs. Lisa Lashes, “Release Me” from Release Me (2010 Siren Tracks). Anne Savage is a UK hard-dance DJ & Producer. Lisa Lashes is a British trance/hard-house DJ and music producer.
East Coast Boogiemen and DJ Heather, “Picture of You (Natural Rhythm Remix)” from Picture Of You Pt. 1 (2005 Blackcherry Recordings). East Coast Boogiemen was the DJ group consisting of Ken Christensen and Juan Zapata. DJ Heather is a DJ and producer from Chicago.
TOKiMONSTA, “Let Me Trick You” from Cosmic Intoxication EP (2010 Ramp Recordings). Jennifer Lee is a producer from Los Angeles, California, USA.
Nicole Moudaber & Skin, “Someone Like You” from Breed EP (2015 Mood Records). Nicole Moudaber is a DJ and producer born and raised in Nigeria and Lebanon, and who is now based in London, UK. Skin (Deborah Anne Dyer) is a British singer, songwriter, electronic music DJ.
 
Opening background music:
Thom Holmes, “To the Automation” (2022). Instrumentation, Spark, ARP Odyssey, and Buchla Easel plug-ins, Thom Holmes.
 
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.

The Sonic Origins of Electronic Dance Music

Episode 70
The Sonic Origins of Electronic Dance Music
Trying to understand the evolution and history of electronic dance music (EDM) is a daunting task. We’ll explore some of the sonic roots to see how we got to EDM—a beat-driven music powered by electronics and often focused on creating a trancelike musical state.
Playlist
Jesse Saunders, “On And On” from On and On (1984 Jes Say Records). Possibly the first DJ-created album created as a commercial public release. Produced, Performed, Arranged By Jesse Saunders; written by Jesse Saunders, Vince Lawrence. 8:02
Armin Van Buuren, “Sail” from Sail (2006 Armind). This 12” original mix was written by and produced by Armin van Buuren. 7:29
Amelie Lens, “Linger On” from Let it Go (2016 Second State). EDM performer and producer from Antwerp, Belgium. 7:41
Timmy Thomas, “Why Can't We Live Together,” from Why Can't We Live Together (1972 Glades). Timmy Thomas, Hammond organ and drum machine. Note the rapid-fire drum sequences sprinkled in here and there, a premonition around the future sound of drum machines. 4:38
Kraftwerk, “Uranium” from Radioactivity (1975 Kling-Klang). Not so much a danceable turn, but the choir sample was later repurposed by New Order in Blue Monday, so a worthy acknowledgement to Kraftwerk. 1:26
Kraftwerk, “Transistor” from Radioactivity (1975 Kling-Klang). Electronic percussion, Karl Bartos, Wolfgang Flür; Voice, Electronics, Florian Schneider, Ralf Hütter. 3:43
Kraftwerk, “Europe Endless” from Trans Europe Express (1977 Kling-Klang). Electronic Drums, Karl Bartos, Wolfgang Flur; Electronics, Voice, Florian Schneider, Ralf Hutter. 9:38
Biddu Orchestra, “Bionic Boogie” from Bionic Boogie (1976 Epic). A 45 RPM single from the disco era, featuring some electronics in the form of synthesizers. Biddu was an Indian-British music producer, composer, songwriter and singer. This was a departure for the Biddu Orchestra, which was normally engaged in full disco orchestrations, not the sonic textures of synthesizers, which are heard here, if somewhat overlayed by the other instruments. 2:59
Donna Summer, “I Feel Love” from I Remember Yesterday (1977 Casablanca). Written and sung by Donna Summer; produced by and Moog Synthesizer, Giorgio Moroder; Moog Synthesizer, Robby Wedel; Moog Bass, Thor Baldursson; Drums, Percussion, Keith Forsey; Bass, Les Hurdle.5:52
Space, “Save Your Love For Me” from Just Blue (1978 Vogue). Space was a French group, created around Didier Marouani (aka Ecama) and Roland Romanelli, acclaimed for their 1977 UK disco hit "Magic Fly." 5:45
Space, “Final Signal” from Just Blue (1978 Vogue). Space was a French group, created around Didier Marouani (aka Ecama) and Roland Romanelli. 4:21
Yellow Magic Orchestra, “Computer Game (Theme From The Invader)” from Yellow Magic Orchestra (1978 Horizon). Japanese techno band, parallel to later Kraftwerk. Drums, Percussion, Other Electronics, Vocals – Yukihiro Takahashi; Keyboards, Other [Electronics], Percussion, orchestrated by Ryuichi Sakamoto; Produced by Harry Hosono; Micro Composer programmer, Hideki Matsutake. 4:28
Mandré, “M3000 (Opus VI)” from M3000 (1979 Motown). Produced and Arranged By Andre Lewis. Lewis was a keyboardist who went on to collaborate with many artists, not the least of which for Frank Zappa for whom he played keyboards for The Mothers of Invention after the departure of George Duke. 5:43
New Order, “Blue Monday” from Blue Monday/The Beach (1983, Factory). This was a 12-inch 45 RPM single of the song which became a top seller. New Order was firmly entrenched in the synth-pop dance/crossover genre at that time and this song with its funky samples, mechanical progression and even references to Kraftwerk (the vocal choir heard is indeed a sample from Kraftwerk’s “Uranium” released in 1975 effectively put a few more bricks in the bridge to electronic dance music. 7:27
Michel Huygen, “Take Now Music (Extended Instrumental Version)” from Capturing Holograms (1984 jive Electro). Recorded early 1984 in Barcelona (Spain). Composed, performed, produced, and programmed by Belgian born synthesist Michel Huygen, a member of the Spanish group Neuronium in 1976. 5:34
Kraftwerk, “Der Telefon Anruf (German Version)” from The Telephone Call (1987 EMI). Listen to this track and you will hear similarities in later work by New Order, particularly the comping synth chords and pattern. 3:47
New Order, “World (The Price Of Love) (Radio Edit)” from World. (The Price Of Love) (1993 London Records). CD single of the track also found on the album Republic (1993 London Records). This sounds as if New Order is still thanking Kraftwerk for their inspiration. 3:39
Opening background music:
New Order, “Confusion (Instrumental)” (1983 Streetwise). Mixed by Arthur Baker and John "Jellybean" Benitez. New Order's sixth single and their first collaboration with Arthur Baker. Released August 22, 1983.
 
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.

More Symphonic Music with Synthesizers

Episode 69
More Symphonic Music with Synthesizers
 
Playlist
Tomita, “Gardens In The Rain (Estampes, 3)” from Snowflakes Are Dancing (1974 RCA Red Seal). "Electronic performances of Debussy's tone paintings." Performed, arranged, and electronically created by Isao Tomita, composed by Claude Debussy. Modular Moog synthesizer by Isao Tomita, with equipment listed as: Moog synthesizer; One 914 extended range fixed filter bank; Two 904-A voltage-controlled low-pass filters;  One 904-B voltage-controlled high-pass filter;  One 904-C filter coupler;  One 901 Voltage-controlled oscillator;  Three 901-A oscillator controllers;  Nine 901-B oscillators;  Four 911 envelope generators;  One 911-A dual-trigger delay;  Five 902 voltage-controlled amplifiers;  One 912 envelope follower;  One 984 four-channel mixer;  One 960 sequential controller;  Two 961 interfaces;  One 962 sequential switch;  Two 950 keyboard controllers;  One 6401 Bode ring modulator;  Tape recorders,  One Ampex MM-1100 16-track,  One Ampex AG-440 4-track, One Sony TC-9040 4-track,  One Teac A-3340S 4-track,  One Teac 7030GSL 2-track;  Mixers,  Two Sony MX-16 8-channel mixers,  Two Sony MX-12 6-channel mixers;  Accessories,  One AKG BX20E Echo unit;  One Eventide Clockworks "Instant Phaser";  Two Binson Echorec "2" units ; One Fender "Dimension IV;"  One Mellotron.    3:41
Tomita, “The Old Castle” from Pictures At An Exhibition (1975 RCA Red Seal). “Electronic interpretations of works by classical composer Modest Mussorgsky.” Performed, arranged, and electronically created by Isao Tomita, composed by Modest Mussorgsky. Modular Moog synthesizer by Isao Tomita. Assume same instrumentation as above. 5:16
Pulsar, “Strands of the Future” from Strands of the Future (1976 Kingdom Records). Recorded in Switzerland, released in France. Drums, Percussion, Victor Bosch; Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Vocals, Gilbert Gandil; Flute, Solina Synthesizer, Roland Richard; Lyrics By François Artaud; Organ, Moog Synthesizer, Mellotron, Bass Guitar, Jacques Roman. 22:13
Vangelis Papathanassiou, “Flamants Roses” from Opéra Sauvage (1979 Polydor). "Original Music For Frédéric Rossif's Television Series.” Recorded in London, 1979. Composed, Arranged, Produced, synthesizers, piano, Fender Rhodes electric piano, drums, percussion, xylophone, Vangelis Papathanassiou; harp, Jon Anderson. 11:48
Rick Wakeman, “Overtures, Part 1 and 2” from 1984 (1981 Charisma). Part 1: Piano, Prophet Synthesizer, Rick Wakeman. Part 2: Organ, Piano, Prophet Synthesizer, RMI Synthesizer, Rick Wakeman. Bass, Runswick D., McGee R.; Bassoon, Sheen G., Hammond H. Cello, Truman B., Robinson M., Willison P.; Cello [Lead], Daziel A.; Clarinet, Weinberg T., Puddy K.; Drums, Tony Fernandez;  Drums, Frank Ricotti;  Fender Bass, Boghead, Steve Barnacle; Flute, Sandeman D., Gregory J.; Guitar, Beaky, Tim Stone; Horn, Thomson M., Easthope P.; Keyboards, Dave Crombie; Oboe, Theodore D., Whiting J.; Producer, Rick Wakeman Saxophone [Selmer] Gary Barnacle; Trombone, Hardie, Wilson; Trumpet, Miller J., Wallis J.; Tuba, Jenkins J. Viola, Newlands D., Robertson G., Andrade L.; Viola [Lead], Cookson M.; Violin, McGee A., Dukov B., Katz D., Bradles D., Clay L., Good T.; Violin, Leader, Rothstein J.. 5:12
Keith Emerson, “Tramway” from Nighthawks (Original Soundtrack) (1981 Backstreet Records). Keith played a Fairlight CMI on this track. The Fairlight was programmed by Kevin Crossley. Keyboards, Performed, Produced, Composed by Keith Emerson; Drums, Neil Symonette; Percussion, Frank Scully; Orchestral Percussion, Tristen Fry; Saxophone, Jerome Richardson; Trumpet [Lead], Greg Bowen. 3:25
Jean Michel Jarre, “Fourth Rendez-Vous” from Rendez-Vous (1986 Polydor). ARP 2600 synthesizer, Eminent organ, Matrisequencer, Roland TR 808 drum machine, Michel Geiss; Elka Synthex, EMS Synthi AKS, Oberheim OBX, Yamaha DX100 synthesizers, Matrisequencer, Roland TR 808 drum machine, Linn 9000 Electronic Drums, Jean-Michel Jarre. 3:59
Jean Michel Jarre, “Fifth Rendez-Vous” from Rendez-Vous (1986 Polydor). “Baby Korg” synthesizer, David Jarre; ARP 2600 synthesizer, Matrisequencer, Michel Geiss; Emulator II sampler/synthesizer, Dave Smith Prophet-5 synthesizer, Casio CZ 5000, ARP 2600, Fairlight CMI, Roland JX 8P, synthesizers, Matrisequencer, Jean-Michel Jarre. 7:56
Jean Michel Jarre, “Last Rendez-Vous: "Ron's Piece" from Rendez-Vous (1986 Polydor). Saxophone, Pierre Gossez; Elka Synthex, Seiko DS 250, Fairlight CMI synthesizers, Matrisequencer, Eminent organ, Jean-Michel Jarre. 5:45
William Ørbit, “Ogive Number 1” from Pieces In A Modern Style (2000 WEA Records). Recorded in England. Written by Erik Satie. Arranged, Programmed, Produced, Performed by William Ørbit. I think this piece is more likely Orbit’s arrangement of "Ogive Number 2", not Number 1. But who cares? It’s lovely to hear the French musician electrified like this. 6:45
Steve Jansen, Richard Barbieri, Nobukazu Takemura, “Empty Orchestra” from Changing Hands (1997 Medium Productions Limited). UK album of downtempo electronic music with a classical flavor. Recorded in Kyoto and London. Composed, Performed, Produced by Nobukazu Takemura, Richard Barbieri, Steve Jansen. 14:11
Sarah Davachi, “Magdalena” from Antiphonals (2021 Late Music). Canadian electro-acoustical composer and musician who blends classical instruments with electronics. Mellotron (English Horn, Bass Flute, Clarinet, Recorder, Oboe, French Horn, Chamber Organ, Nylon String Guitar), Tape Echo, Korg CX-3 Electric Organ, Pipe Organ, Harpsichord, Piano, ARP Odyssey Synthesizer, Acoustic Guitar, Violin, Voice, Sarah Davachi. 10:12
 
Background music:
James Newton Howard, “Margaret I’m Home” from ‎James Newton Howard (1974 Kama Sutra). Performed, Composed, Arranged by, James Newton Howard.
 
Opening and closing sequences voiced by Anne Benkovitz.
Additional opening, closing, and other incidental music by Thom Holmes.
For additional notes, please see my blog, Noise and Notations.