How Yellow Magic Orchestra Launched the 808 Revolution It’s not a stretch to say that few bands were as formative in the early evolution of electronic music as Yellow Magic Orchestra. by Evan Shamoon 4 mins read
Listening Guide: 1980s Hip-Hop The 1980s were a pivotal time in hip-hop’s development. Listen to these ten songs that helped define the decade. by Kyle Eustice 4 mins read
Listening Guide: Trip-Hop Explore trip-hop from its early days to the current renaissance centering on a new generation of artists mining the genre's laidback beats. by Andy Thomas 4 mins read
Sound Behind the Song: “Buffalo Stance” by Neneh Cherry A “Buffalo Stance” is to stand with arms crossed, looking sideways. It's also the name of a 1989 hit by Swedish-born, UK-bred artist, Neneh Cherry. by Ari Rosenschein 3 mins read
Listening Guide: Ambient Music From droning electronic pieces to spiritual soundscapes, these records offer a beautiful entry point into this immersive genre. by Dusty Henry 4 mins read
Samuel Proffitt: Brooding Beats and Russian Literature Ari Rosenschein Samuel Proffitt’s sophisticated sound is haunting. He discusses everything from screamo aspirations to rhythmic inspiration using the TR-808.
Artists at Home: Mr. Tuna in the Studio Lis Di Angelo Mr. Tuna is a synth master from British Columbia whose converted barn serves as his studio. His social media savvy makes him an online star.
Gowan: Strange Animal on the River Styx Lyle Crilly If you grew up in Canada, the music of Gowan sparks memories. The artist also has a longstanding role in theatrical legends Styx.
A Few Minutes with BricksDaMane: Inside the Winner’s Circle Ari Rosenschein Energetic, accomplished, and ambitious, BricksDaMane is one of the most prolific and in-demand producers in hip-hop.
Drum Companion: Lorne Wheaton on Neil Peart and More Darren Schoepp Lorne Wheaton’s lengthy tenure with Neil Peart makes him a Rush fan favorite. Learn about their time on the road in this exclusive interview.
Roland Engineering: Atsushi Hoshiai and the TR-909 Kaori Tsuboi You may be surprised to learn that one of the original engineers of the Roland TR-909 is still active in the company. Meet Atsushi Hoshiai.
Dynamix II: On Miami Bass, the TR-808, and Finding the Perfect Tempo Mike Sparks David Noller and Todd Walker of Dynamix II discuss their history, the Miami sound, and the quest to find an 808 in the 1980s.
Boris and the Power of NO Ari Rosenschein In the face of a global pandemic, Tokyo’s legendary trio Boris created a unique statement of purpose and hope.
A Few Minutes with Ali Stone and ZENOLOGY Ari Rosenschein Ali Stone’s new single “Crudo,” featuring ZENOLOGY, refers to a love that’s pure, sincere, and gets better with time.
My Friend from the Eastside Martin Douglas Veteran music journalist Martin Douglas explores a cherished longtime friendship through the lenses of rap music and their hometown.
Synthesizers as Art From oil paintings to digital illustration, sculptures to industrial design, synthesizers as art are finally shining in the limelight. by Adam Douglas 8 mins read
Nostalgia Galore: How Classic Songs Climb Back to the Top of the Charts Social media can reinvigorate vintage hits and help them reach broad new audiences. Here are some classic songs that got a second spin. by SIRMA 5 mins read
Nashville Scene Report Nashville has seen changes over the years, mirroring the growth of its entertainment industry. These musicians contribute to the fabric of Music City. by Ari Rosenschein 18 mins read
On the Move: Dolly Spectra and Gestural Performance Technology Musical mad scientist Dolly Spectra discusses using her body as a MIDI controller in performance, community, and the future of electronic pop. by Carolyn Shlensky 8 mins read
DJ Skratch Bastid and RomeDigs: Redefining Live Follow DJ Skratch Bastid and Pro A/V expert RomeDigs as they reflect on the power of combining livestreaming with in-person performance. by Ari Rosenschein 11 mins read