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Soundcheck

Monday, March 12, 2007
  • Cafe Tacvba

    Spanish Fly

    What happens when rock en español meets politics? As George W. Bush takes his tour throughout Latin American, we check out the political face and the pulse of rock music both south of the border and here in the U.S. Guests include the Mexican band Zoé, which is making its New York debut this week. Also on the show: Choreographer and director Matthew Bourne talks about his stage version of Tim Burton's film Edward Scissorhands, which takes place at BAM this week. And finally: the New Jersey Symphony is selling its controversial collection of rare string instruments. We find out why.

The Future of Spanish-language Rock

A decade ago Spanish-language rock music was exploding in the U.S. But some say it never lived up to its promise. Today, as George Bush travels to Latin America, find out what bands are still thriving south of the border. Guests include Mexican band Zoé.

Edward Scissorhands

Dancing with Edward Scissorhands

He created an all-male Swan Lake and a vindictive Nutcracker. Now choreographer Matthew Bourne is bringing the story of Edward Scissorhands to the opera house. Today Bourne talks about turning fairy tales on their heads.

New Jersey Symphony to Sell Off Prized Instruments

Drew McManus, orchestra consultant and blogger at Artsjournal.com looks at why the New Jersey Symphony is selling its 30 "Golden Age" string instruments.

Noteworthy New York

Soundcheck

We have invited musicians and artists to help us select their favorite cultural destination in the neighborhood where they live. From parks and coffee shops to bowling alleys and museums, the options are as diverse as our group of contributors.

The Journey of Quincy Jones

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During his 50-year career, Quincy Jones has worked with everyone from Frank Sinatra to Puff Daddy, founded Vibe magazine, collected countless awards, and earned a reputation as a jazz giant. (Somewhere in there, he found time to make possible an album called "Thriller.") Jones joins us on the occasion of his new book, "The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey & Passions."

Soundcheck blog: John Schaefer on Quincy Jones, Henry Rollins and the term "Renaissance man"

Pop's Love Affair With Death

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Death may be an unpleasant topic for conversation, but it ranks up there with sex and love as a basic ingredient in song lyrics. Today, we look at how pop music copes (and even thrives) with death. We're joined by Graeme Thomson, author of the self-explanatory book, "I Shot a Man in Reno: A History of Death By Murder, Suicide, Fire, Flood, Drugs, Disease and General Misadventure, as Related in Popular Song."

Soundcheck blog: What's your favorite song about death?

Behind the public face of John Lennon

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Writing a book about the Beatles is to enter a crowded market. But Philip Norman’s new 851-page biography, “John Lennon: The Life” is getting much buzz this fall for the unprecedented access provided by Lennon’s friends and relatives, including Yoko Ono. We talk with Norman about why Lennon remains such a fascinating and troubled figure.

The Soul of British Soul

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British soul divas like Amy Winehouse and Duffy owe a big debt to a '60s icon with a breathy voice and a beehive wig. Today: the story of singer Dusty Springfield. Later: folk-rock artist Ani DiFranco performs songs from her new album "Red Letter Year" live in our studio.