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(Chewy Chua/flickr)
Some of the most fascinating songs on the planet last for hours, evolve over time and contain messages that no one quite understands. Today we find out about the mysterious world of whale songs -- and one musician's quest to join it. Plus: violinist James Ehnes is being called one of the hottest Canadian classical musicians in recent memory. He joins us for a live performance.
Guests:
James EhnesSave the Whales (But Listen, Too)
Clarinetist, naturalist, and author David Rothenberg wrote about his quest to jam with the biggest singers on the planet: whales. Scott McVay made historic underwater recordings of whale songs. They join us to share their sounds and theories of whale song.
Our blog: John Schafer on whale songs: ...
Our blog: John Schafer on whale songs: ...
CD Picks of the Week
Every week, the Soundcheck staff digs through our inboxes for the best new releases.
Al Green, "Lay It Down" (Blue Note)
Four decades into a legendary career, Al Green could just sit back and collect the royalties from his recording catalog. But the Memphis-based singer still loves making records. And ...
Al Green, "Lay It Down" (Blue Note)
Four decades into a legendary career, Al Green could just sit back and collect the royalties from his recording catalog. But the Memphis-based singer still loves making records. And ...
James Ehnes
Manitoba-born violinist James Ehnes is being called one of the hottest Canadian classical musicians to come along in a long time. Earlier this year he received a Grammy Award for his recording of concertos by Barber, Korngold and Walton. He joins us today -- in advance of an appearance with ...
Whale Songs: Music or Nature's Noise?
Is THAT music? It’s a question that has often been asked, usually in an incredulous tone, often by parents who greet their teenagers’ choice of music with a mix of confusion and revulsion. But it’s a question that critics asked ...