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Cab Calloway (thecabcalloway/myspace)
Cab Calloway is best known for his masterful scatting and a memorable turn in the film The Blues Brothers. But there was a lot more to the bandleader than just … “hi de ho.” We take a closer look at the life of a pioneering entertainer. Plus: The Detroit Symphony Orchestra went on strike today; we'll get an on-the-ground report. And later: Live music from the experimental pop band Menomena.
Showdown in Detroit
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra was supposed to begin rehearsals for its fall season today. But after months of negotiation over new contracts that would cut pay and saddle musicians with extra duties, the players walked off the job this morning.
The Scat Singer
Author and jazz critic Alyn Shipton's curiosity was piqued after being introduced to the records of Cab Calloway. When he went to learn more, he found that no full-length biography of the legendary entertainer existed - so he decided to write it himself.
In Studio: Menomena
The Portland, Oregon-based indie rock outfit Menomena received widespread critical acclaim for the crashing drums and intricate melodies of their 2007 album Friend and Foe. Three years later the band has finally returned with a follow-up, the long awaited Mines. They bring their idiosyncratic pop live to the Soundcheck studio. Plus: download or stream a bonus performance of "Tithe" recorded after the show today.
Bonus Track: Menomena
Menomena played two songs from their album Mines live on Soundcheck today -- and our host John promised you a third. Check out this version of "Tithe" that the Portland, Ore.-based band recorded in the studio after we went off the air.
Walking The Line
If the striking musicians win now, they may lose big later.
Gig Alert: FELA!
Sahr Ngaujah, lead actor in FELA!, the musical, plays the music of Afrobeat godfather Fela Kuti, backed by the able musicians of Antibalas. Download the theatrical version of "Water No Get Enemy," based on the Fela Kuti track of the same name.
Gig Alert: Chapterhouse
The late 1980’s Brit-rockers Chapterhouse reunited this year for their first North American tour in 15 years. Download the track "Pearl" right here.
Gig Alert: GAYNGS
Minneapolis maestro Ryan Olson embarks on an epic collection of musicians and genre mixing on GAYNGS debut album Relayted. Download the track "The Gaudy Side of Town" right here for free.