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Soundcheck / March 27, 2007

Soundcheck

Tuesday, March 27, 2007
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  • Arcade Fire
    Arcade Fire

    Keeping the CD Alive

    While most experts agree that the CDs days are numbered, don't break out the Requiems just yet. Today we look at niche labels who are not only focusing their efforts on CD production, but working to give CD buyers more bang for their buck. Also: Christopher Rouse been described as "the Stephen King of composition," as most of his work deals with death, horror, and mythology. He joins us to share, what else, but a new Requiem. And finally, Irish composer Donnacha Dennehy shares his new piece for piano and electronics called "Stainless Staining."

Niche Labels

With every bit of evidence telling them that it makes no sense to manufacture CDs anymore, some tiny labels continue to produce them, and they find people who buy. We explore this phenomenon today with guests including Mac McCaughan, co-founder of the indie-rock label Merge Records; and Jeff Gauthier, who runs the L.A.-based jazz label Cryptogramophone.

Cryptogramophone Records Web site
Merge Records Web site
Big Labels, Small Labels, and Beyond: A Soundcheck Series

Christopher Rouse

Christopher Rouse has been described as "the Stephen King of composition," since most of his work deals with death, horror, and mythology. He joins us to talk about his latest piece.

Christopher Rouse's Web site

Donnacha Dennehy

Dublin-based composer Donnacha Dennehy talks about new piece for piano and electronics called “Stainless Staining.”

Donnacha Dennehy's Web site

Arcade Fire

When I Missed the Boat

Soundcheck

How prejudice and second-guessing can cause you to miss some great music. Also, Juilliard-trained pianist Andy Russo joins us to share "Mix Tape," a collection of 14 classical arrangements of nuggets by Billy Joel, James Blunt, the B-52's, and others.

johnny flynn

Johnny Flynn

Soundcheck

Johnny Flynn, a London-based singer-songwriter, performs songs from his new album, "A Larum."

Ahmad Jamal

Ahmad Jamal

Soundcheck

Pianist and composer Ahmad Jamal was a major influence on Miles Davis in the 50s. Today rappers sample his music. He joins us to discuss his latest album.

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