MusicMusic Art Art Culture Culture Rejoice Restart December 2019 Volume 1, Issue 11 January 2020 Vol. 2, Issue 1.

Eddie Ade Knowles Drummer, educator, revolutionary... Eddie Ade 18 Knowles reminds us where we came from. The SceneJason once had Keller a call-sign, and Peggy Apple picks up the mic for us. 18 His voice fillsPeggy the airwaves Apple from WEQX, now we 22 welcome Jason Keller to fill some column inches. OP Callaghan Music is the pulse of the people. OP Callaghan 22 gives that pulse... and sometimes takes it. Free www.radioradiox.com

January 2020 Page 3 Music Art Culture Revolution Pacer Test Sprints Ahead

Eddie Knowles We all came from the same ground, and drummer and teacher Eddie Ade Knowles taps on our roots.

Page 18

Photo provided. (l - r) Kyle From the melting pot of college comes Pacer Robinson, Gabe Klingler- Test... and maybe a scorched PA. Horn, Daniel Carr, Aidan Sloppy. Jason Keller The Capital Region airwaves own by a select group of engineering), and Daniel Carr are fl By Josh Reedy didn’t have any band mem- people. Jason Keller is one of (drums). The band invited me them. bers, we were like, “Oh wow into their current residence where Page 22 acer Test is an Albany band this is really cool but we can’t do we talked practice, band history with a sound that will hit anything with it.” and more. you harder than the cardio- KR: Yeah we just kind of P (NOTE: Daniel Carr was not vascular endurance test they’re sat in the living room with like, present for this interview) named after. The quartet has re- the midi controller and the aw- RRX: How did you guys all Observations leased two songs officially, “Space ful Logic samples and we made and Ramblings ...... 33 meet and decide to make music Cowboy” and “We All Love Tom,” “Space Cowboy.” together? Xperience Fiction....38 on Spotify and other services. RRX: Is it true you guys met GK: So we all go to school at Pacer Test also plays local shows in guitar class? Saint Rose and Kyle and I moved in Albany at locations such as the KR: No it was Star Day, that’s in here the beginning of last year, Byrdhouse or the Low Beat. The like our orientation. So we were our sophomore year. And we band is currently composed of here the first day of school and started writing music for a little Gabe Klingler-Horn (vocals/gui- Gabe was like, one of the first while and we had one song writ- tar), Kyle Robinson (vocals/keys), ten for a really long time but we Aidan Sloppy (bass/recording/ Continued on Page 4... Page 4 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 3. a band together. It was kind of everyone else. Gabe is probably out dust. a joke, like, “We have to start a the main contributor and then we RRX: Are there any local people that I met. We were in the band together.” And when I start- all just add our little sprinkles on places you want to give a quick same orientation group. ed to meet Gabe I used to run top. shoutout to? GK: And then sometime later shows at the Orange Peel and GK: The magic doesn’t real- GK: So, I mean, definitely the in the semester I talked to one of these two (Gabe and Kyle) were ly happen until we’re all in the Byrdhouse. Put the Byrdhouse our professors about joining his frequent flyers there. So we got to room. It could just be a sing- twice. work-study group just so I could know each other pretty well and er-songwriter song before we get KR: We for some reason play play around with more of the when they were looking for band to rock (laughs). As far as lyric a lot of events. We want to play sound equipment. And then that’s members they knew that I liked writing: it’s just kind of all over the Chateau. where I met this guy (points to to rock. So I was like “Yeah man, the place. It’s about the bigger GK: We also played the Low Aidan) and you (Aidan) tell your I’ll rock as long as I can bring my picture, whoever needs to do Beat, we played the Hollow. side because it was like, two friend Tom along.” So Tom and I something we just kind of just let RRX: Can you describe what bands started at seperate spots got our dream of having a band that happen. a standard practice is like? You and then we met each other. together and Tom was our drum- KR: No matter what we write, don’t practice here in this house AS: Yeah so, our dearly de- mer before he moved away. It doesn’t sound like a Pacer Test do you? parted friend Tom, (Tom is not RRX: Can you guys describe song until we’re in a basement KR: No, at his house (points dead,) and I worked together your process for songwriting? that’s so dusty that I can’t breathe to Aidan). He’s got a basement. doing record engineering at the KR: I’d say Gabe does most for half of it. GK: Alright let’s go ahead and college so I’ve known him pretty of the original riff writing; he’ll GK: Those are the best ven- describe what a normal practice well for a couple years. Then we come in with a lot of the core ues: the ones where you have to is like and then describe what our (Aidan and Tom) started hang- ideas. Sometimes we’ll work to- blow your nose like, three or four worst practice was like. ing out more outside of school gether before coming in with days after being there, blowing AS: That was our best last year and we wanted to start

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By Rob Smittix only go to church when somebody that we love dies. Somebody just got killed two days ago. RRX: I know f all you hear is negativi- Pnal: Every time somebody ty, you’ll start to listen to it. gets killed I know someone that But if there’s a positive voice I knows the victim. It always hits in the community someone will home. I didn’t know him person- listen as well. Pnal a rapper and ally but it hits home for me. business man from Albany is that RRX: I know you don’t have community voice. He has started the answer but you’re addressing a company embracing the slo- it and that’s what I feel is import- gan #SoAlbany, with encourag- ant. You’re putting a message out ing messages for the Capital City. there. Pnal has also joined S.N.U.G. Pnal: I’ve always been about (Should Never Use Guns) to show peace, my music is about peace. support for a city that has experi- I’m not gonna say there’s more vi- enced an increase in gun violence olence now than there was before over the last few years. but the violence that used to hap- RRX: “Empty Bottles and pen years ago had meaning be- Teddy Bears” is one of your songs hind it; not saying it’s justifiable that hits deep. At the corner store but you know there was a rea- I frequent on 2nd Ave., there were son. Now it’s the slightest thing. empty bottles and teddy bears A lot of people are getting shot by but after a while the memori- accident. al was cleared and a few weeks RRX: See, I remember the later another one was set up for Photo credit: Arnold Surgick. uptown/downtown rivalries someone else in the same spot. I Pnal laments the reality of street violence. growing up in Albany. I look at it care and I know you care. Does like this, you live downtown be- from the other side and it just so out with people from downtown. anybody else care? I really don’t cause that’s where your parents happens he’s living in the heart I was all about I’ve got to pay bills know. could afford to live and you live of where the people are that he’s and I got to do what I got to do to Pnal: Out of sight, out of uptown for the same reason. Now beefing with. That’s a nightmare. support my family. I’m a father of mind, man. There’s this one song, what happens when a downtown RRX: Yeah it’s a nightmare. six now, that’s my detour, my di- I said “ten memorials, eight block kid’s family moves uptown? Pnal: I was born and raised version from the streets. I wasn’t radius, whole bunch of church- Pnal: I’ve been telling these downtown but once I moved out, in the streets heavy once my son es in a land full of atheists.” You young boys, you’re not from up- I moved uptown. I became a fa- was born, I’m more of a father know what I’m saying? People town, you just happen to live ther at the age of eighteen, so I now. don’t believe in God. No wonder uptown. Right now there’s a kid wasn’t caught up with hanging why we conversate outside and Continued on Page 8... Page 8 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 7. Pnal: Of course. We all make can’t tell my boss I’m sick and I’m I take pride and ownership in it. mistakes. That’s my son, it is hard dying, can my son take my posi- This is me. I even said that in a Thing is, I did wrong, I com- man and Facebook always re- tion? We’re taking this #SoAlba- song too. I am Albany, no disre- mitted crimes I got away with minds me, memories. I’ll be in ny wave and we’re gonna push it. spect I’m not saying you’re not only to turn around and have my the best mood, laughing, carrying I’ve actually got a website we’re Albany too. You’re from where I first born commit a crime and on having a good time then I’ll working on right now and the am from let’s let people know we go to prison. He’s in prison right go on Facebook and see a picture person designing it asked, “What exist. now for seven years. We come of my son and me at a basketball do you want the people to grasp Keep a look out for new mu- from a place where we say mind game. from your website?” Account- sic from Pnal entitled The Mayor your own business, just raise your RRX: I want to shift gears for ability. This is where I’m from, I “Final Term” coming soon! And home. We can’t do that no more. a minute. Don’t get me wrong, wear it on my sleeve so you see it. follow the hashtag #SoAlbany You could talk to your son until gangsta rap can be really enter- you’re blue in the face, the min- taining but I’m listening to these ute he steps out of your house, he young rappers and I am honestly has ten other people telling him afraid for their safety. What they the total opposite of what you are doing and saying on camera just told him. So the only way scares the hell out of me. to try to change that norm is to Pnal: Coming out of your talk with the ten people’s par- house every day that’s what you ents outside of your household. are subject to. Just being around More community-base, ya know? these kids, you can tell what Remember when we were young, they’re around all day. All they we used to get beaten neighbors, talk about is guns, guns, guns. aunts, grandmothers, everything. They’re fascinated by it. They talk My real name’s Anquan, my about killing others, it’s crazy and son’s name is Anquan McLean then it happens. Jr. He used to play basketball for RRX: I’m not gonna lie when Green-Tech and Albany High. I was a kid and I listened to gang- Dunking off of people, I can show sta rap, I thought guns were cool you. because this is what we were be- I could see it in his eyes and ing taught. hear it in his voice, that Pnal Pnal: You see it in the movies, was greatly affected by his son’s you see it on TV shows, you hear absence. He proceeded to put on about it in music then it’ll hit game highlights from his son’s home for you. Somebody close, short-lived basketball career. He you might notice your brother or wasn’t kidding Anquan Jr. was your friend has one, you feel like on the fast track to basketball it is cool and you need one too, stardom. for no reason at all. Vegan Delicatessen RRX: Seems like a good kid. RRX: So you’ve just started Student Discounts Pnal: He is, just started hang- a clothing business and what’s Available ing with the wrong kid you know? unique is your gear has positive My son came home from college messages for Albany. hung with the wrong kid, made a Pnal: Right now, I feel like bad choice. Took him out of col- I’m in a situation where I able to TROY ALBANY lege, it was heartbreaking. teach my kids something and not RRX: You still got to be real just work for the next thing. If it’s 4th & Ferry Street 227 Lark Street proud. successful, I can pass it down. I January 2020 Page 9 Music Art Culture Revolution Page 10 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Delphino Talks Albany & Their Journey Every band has the chance to shape their own experience. Delphino played at the Byrdhouse. AR: Yes, he’s a lovely soul. has taken that from their songs to their very own venue. Delphino continues in memory of Jeff (he’s not actually dead, just at col- By Josh Reedy lege). Jeff and I just lied about being in a band, we’d just tell people in lbany is home to middle school that we a litany of talent- were in a band. We had ed and creative A played “Scar Tissue” or musical groups, but few “Holiday” by Green Day have achieved as much maybe once in like, 7th as indie-rock/pop band grade. Until 10th grade Delphino. we were like “Yeah we’re Delphino is a 5-piece in a band.” And then made up of Adam Rus- Rachel actually, a friend sell (vocals), Aaron Scan- of ours, asked “Oh are nell (bass), Emma Sutton you guys looking for a (drums), Max Sanchez drummer?” (lead guitar), and Sam SD: And that’s how Dwyer (rhythm guitar/ Emma was born! keys). The band has a AS: Delphino start- wealth of material under ed out as a lie, and it’s their belts, including an only gotten deeper and EP streaming on Spoti- deeper. fy titled Rapture. Apart SD: And we only had from performing songs like, one practice all to- such as “Annabelle,” “I gether for a whole year. Miss the Dog the Most,” AS: I was there play- or “Take Me Home” the Photo provided. ing ukulele while you band also runs the Byrd- (l - r) Max Sanchez, Emma Sutton, Aaron Scannell, Sam Dwyer, guys were playing music. house, one of Albany’s few inde- Jeff Halpin (no longer in band), and Adam Russell AR: So it was 9th grade, I pendent music venues. guess it was ninth grade that Ra- The band performs primar- RRX: What is the story of you each other? chel introduced us to Emma not ily at the Byrdhouse itself, but guys meeting? AS: Yup 10th grade. has also played at various local AS: I’ve known Adam Russell, MS: I met Adam in like, first RRX: So basically, you venues such as the Low Beat and this guy, since before I was even grade? (Adam) and Emma were they Savoy Taproom. Delphino spoke born. AR: Yeah, first grade. original members? on the origin of their band name, AR: Yeah, Aaron came to my RRX: So what was the first AR: Emma, Sam, Jeff and I. moving to Albany, and the nature house before I came to my house. ever iteration of Delphino? Sam joined at the same time as of rock music. AS: That’s not even a joke, AR: So it was Jeffrey Halpin Emma. I said “Sam do you know (Note: Emma Sutton was not that actually happened. and I, who is only here in spirit. the White Stripes?” present for this interview) RRX: So your parents knew RRX: Yes, I’ve met him, he’s SD: And I said, “Who are the January 2020 Page 11 Music Art Culture Revolution

White Stripes?” definitely did not read, I listened AR: We played “I Miss the venue? RRX: So after Sam, who of to an audio-book about music in- Dog the Most,” “Lately,” and SD: I don’t think there was you two (Max and Aaron) joined dustry stuff and it talked about “Take Me Home.” a particular moment where we first? how Harrisburg is the travel cap- RRX: So back to Albany, was decided. MS: We also kind of joined at ital of the U.S. and how if you’re your first living situation in the AS: Cause when we moved the same time. a touring band you can basical- Byrdhouse? into a place like this, we always AR: Well yeah but there was ly get to anywhere in the central AR: I was just going to Saint just kind of had the idea of ‘oh we that year gap after that one prac- U.S. within four hours by plane Rose first. could play shows in the basement’ tice when we were like, “alright or by driving or train and it’s like, MS: You (Adam) lived in Alba- and it just evolved into this. yeah let’s just keep lying about 150 miles from five of the biggest ny for a year living in a dorm. RRX: So your first show was being a band.” music capitals in the U.S. But we AR: We were still based out October 2018, right? RRX: So you guys are all orig- ended up here instead. of Saratoga then, we didn’t take a AR: Yeah, it was a Halloween inally from Saratoga, what was RRX: So did you guys play break that year, normally we have show. I remember none of us had the process of coming to Albany? shows in Albany before coming 50, 60 practices a year but I’d say really high expectations for what AR: That’s actually funny, here? it was around 25 that year. this (the Byrdhouse) was gonna oh my God, you guys remember AR: No. RRX: So when did you all be but then like, all of our friends Harrisburg? We almost went to SD: Wait yes, we played the start living together (in Albany)? were in town and at the show and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Low Beat. AR: That was August 2018. all brought together. AS: I made like, a whole pow- MS: We played mostly in That was at our last residence be- erpoint explaining to our par- Saratoga, places like Gaffney’s. fore this one, I was the only one You can read the full article on ents why they should let us go (to Our first show was at Gaffney’s, there for the first six months. the Xperience Blog at www.ra- Harrisburg). open mic night, we played three RRX: So when did you guys dioradiox.com. AR: So I read, wait no-I songs. decide to use your space as a

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41 112th Street, Troy (518) 235-4141 Page 12 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution January 2020 Page 13 Music Art Culture Revolution Things I Won’t Say in 2020 things done with less resources Think outside the box – It So at the end of the day, I am By Fred Aseel available. But what exactly? Less sounds like a game we can play, going to think out side the box pay, time, people? Just say what but even in games there are rules. and try to do more with less. In id you make any reso- you actually mean. How big is the box? What is the 2020, I am going to peel back the lutions for 2020? I did. Do you have enough band- box made of? Do we start out layers of the onion and give my- DThere is certain office jar- width? – Your maximum band- with a closed box or an open box? self a daily gentle reminder to be gon that I am resolving to remove width is the highest number Is there a cat in the box? the boots on the ground to make from my daily speech in this of concurrent tasks you can do Touch base offline – Means my resolution stick. Indeed. new year. Some of these phrases over a period of time. I am not let’s meet and talk later without sound like fingernails on a chalk a modem or piece of networking a Wi-Fi signal. Wow, is that even board to me and some phrases equipment so don’t reference me possible anymore? (like the one I just used) are too as such. Working with live ammuni- old to have a frame of reference Gentle reminder – A pas- tion – The phrase has both pos- for the younger generations en- sive-aggressive reminder that itive and negative connotations tering the work force. Too much someone needs attention. I have around the desire to move as buzz-speak doesn’t help conversa- a gentle reminder for you too, but quickly as possible, typically out tions flow or smooth social inter- on second thought, it is not very of pure necessity. You know what actions, and instead, it becomes gentle nor office appropriate. happens when you play with live a void filler. If it doesn’t advance Indeed – While the word itself ammunition – you lose a hand. the conversation – limit your is used to emphasize the truth of phrase-du-jour to proper busi- something or to agree that some- ness language that saves time and thing is true, it sounds dismis- sanity. Here are some of the “off sive. When I hear some use this limit” phrases for me in 2020. word, I image them rolling their Action items – Essentially this eyes and/or really not listening to is just a list of things that need me in the first place. to get done. If I have to work, I Peel back the layers of the would prefer to be assigned the onion – Used to stress that one non-action items. needs to keep analyzing and get At the end of the day – This to the real issue. No need to ref- is one of the most popular office erence an onion – they stink and phrases that makes me cringe. make me cry. Unless something is specifically Reach out to them on that – happening at the end of my work- I picture a creepy zombie arm day, stop filling up my calendar. stretching towards someone Boots on the ground – I am who cannot break away. It’s all not in the military and I am not to touchy-feely jargon for this going into battle. I am not going introvert. to fight for your new email reten- The optics are what the optics tion policy like I am storming the are – Is this the new “it is what it beach at Normandy. is”? Either way, just deal with the Do more with less – It often is shitty hand you are being dealt a way to instruct someone to get and move on. Page 14 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution CBGB, The Rat, and the Sweet Road Home

Photo provided.

The heart of the artist thrives and carries a tune throughout the years. Alexander employs the element Willie Loco Alexander’s heart has a discography. of ‘Place’ prominently in his work.

and the Boom Boom Band, and after 20 years of non stop collage retrospective, huge art show and By Liam Sweeny even did a stint in the Velvet Un- some as big as doors and both sold a half-dozen paintings! (It’s derground. He is an artist in res- sides, photo sculpture from pro- like pulling teeth to sell a cd.) I idency, and a writer of song and mo sheets, newspapers, things think I’m gonna release my last ne of the things I love poetry. blowing down the street, history two or three secret albums on about interviewing people We sit with Willie Alexander of Gloucester, my history, my he- vinyl, like AQUA VEGA & The for Xperience is know- O and discuss the number of songs ros, my friends, and they became World Famous Non Stop Seagull ing that I’m always going to be that can be sung on the Mass more and more abstract and Opera meets the Fishtones at the asking interesting people the Pike. transmogrified ( like some of my Strand and The Dog Bar Yacht tough questions. But as I research RRX: I’m fascinated by your music ) obsessions. And they got Club and Vincent Ferrini’s Great- Willie Alexander, (and yes, I do music, but I’d like to first go smaller. Now I’m mostly painting est Hits. research,) it is so cool watching through another route, and ask and its fresh again and exciting RRX: Art is of, and for the other people try to describe him. about your art. I saw a few of your creating instead of finding things. world, but it’s also of, for, and by I could give you some of their de- collages in an article, and they I’ve been making art since I was the artist. In your art, especial- scriptions, but I’d probably have had a unity of design that had a a kid; it’s like brushing my teeth ly being a medium of collage that to pay them, and the gist is that, real synergy with the individual or playing the piano or drums. I you work so well, are there points if you want to think of who the clippings and pictures. How do still don’t read music. What tal- at which you know that you’re re- Godfather of Boston Punk (I’ll you work the interplay between ent i have for music, I got from vealing yourself to the world, and pay) really is, it’s just a collage of the macro imagery and what you my mom who played the violin, other times when you know that radical descriptions. And that. Is. use to create it? the piano, and sang ( introduced you’re revealing the world as you Fitting. WLA: To tell you the truth me to painters like Van Gogh and see it to itself? When would be an Willie Loco Alexander is, of I’ve kinda eased off making col- Grandma Moses too.) Yo, I can’t example of each? course, a musician, frontman of lages and started painting again believe it but recently I had a WLA: I think music and art the Influential Willie Alexander January 2020 Page 15 Music Art Culture Revolution come from the same place inside are a lot more venues that will me or from other powers that be allow originals. There’s also a outside me, moving me. I don’t tougher time getting people out. make anything up. I’m kinda’ Do you think it’s a better time for a Chamber of Commerce writ- original bands, or just a different er, writing about my town or my time? friends . WLA: If new bands play, new RRX: Art is life, and I want- fans will come out and support ed to hold off asking about music them. Nada mas. so we could bring art in. Music is art too, but it’s a different world, where visual art is a bit isolat- ed compared to what you get out when you’re on stage. Obvious- ly, your music has informed your art. But have you learned any- thing about music from working with visual media? WLA: Playing music live is still a thrill for me, I still get a buzz of connection with the uni- verse (the audience,) one with the world . it was all Rock & Roll from the 60’s when I started in Photo provided. 1964 with The Lost to now . call it what ya won’t: R&B, DooWop, Punk Rock, CBGB, At The Rat, Boom Boom GaGa. I even played in Paris a couple weeks ago with a french band The Jones who I met the night before but knew me from my records and tours for New Rose Records. (I sent ‘em a list of Boom Boom songs I want- ed to play.) Last week I played Kerouac and Mass Ave and Dirty Eddie with the James Montgom- ery Band in Boston in a private party after the screening of The American Revolution/WBCN documentary. I’m almost 77 years old now. a second generation rock-and-roller and still rocking. RRX: Places like the Rat in Boston, CBGB in New York; at another time, these were few and far between as venues that would let you do all originals. Now there Page 16 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Magic and alchemy in the glow of the faders

Photo Provided Mirk gets a great plasure out of collaborative works, Musician and producer Mirk takes us through and has worked with many. the digital sorcery of making tomorrow’s hits.

By Liam Sweeny

e all love dough- RRX: Your music is described nuts – unless you’re at a mix of pop, soul, R&B, rock Wdoing keto, in which and hip-hop, but there’s such a case you have a love/hate re- blend to it, that I would have a lationship with doughnuts hard time seeing it is a mix of dif- – and if you’re old enough, ferent styles – it’s really it’s own you remember a certain style. But just saying that you’re steadfast man in a cer- your own style doesn’t help bring tain doughnut chain in listeners. Is listing genres good on your TV repeating for anything other than directing his classic line, “Time listeners? to make the dough- Mirk: I think that genres nuts,” which has are easy descriptors to help the become slang for listener know what to expect? having to get some- Ultimately we are in a kind of thing done behind new age that streaming and the the scenes. Music free download has created. For doesn’t just ap- centuries songs have cost the pear from the void. equivalent of a dollar. So buying It must be written a song was a literal investment. performed, record- An investment in what? Mental ed, and, in some and emotional health, entertain- cases, produced – ment, inspiration, the list goes on before you ever hear and on... So back then genre was it. important because it was part Mirk (Joshua of an identification of what you Mirksy) makes the stood for or needed from music doughnuts. He sings, he and thought went into what you writes songs, he’s in the were going to invest in. Now that studio producing names we have the whole worlds histo- that even you’ve heard. ry of recorded music at our finger And he has a sound that you tips for ten dollars a month or wouldn’t believe comes from free if you don’t mind the adds the Capital District. and horrible search ability, peo- We sit with Mirk and discuss ple can experiment in listening to life on the Matrix design team. genres they may not have initially January 2020 Page 17 Music Art Culture Revolution knew they identified with because with, much in the same way there’s no investment in the sin- “Crispy Benjamins” was done. As gle song anymore. So now genre in I’m predominantly writing the is way less important and way musical portion and the artists more fluid! are providing lyrics and vocal RRX: Some musicians and melodies. Much of the times we’re bands, I listen to their music, working together, but sometimes and, as much as I like it, I’m they record their part in their thinking to myself, “just stick to own spaces and I get their parts the studio” because there’s no back to finish the arrangement way they can get that sound live. and mix it down. I really enjoy it But I’ve seen you, as “Mirk and either way. Working with people the New Familiars,” and your live creating a song and hearing dif- show was great. Should a band fering perspectives on the son- work on both a “studio” sound ics can really expand where you and a “stage” sound? might have gone in your own! Mirk: Oh for sure! There are And hearing where someone else definitely different ways to sep- can take something you start- arate the two in an interesting ed, so you can be surprised by way. There are some songs we your own creation is amazing too. just don’t play because we tried There’s something very human and tried to make them work about the collaboration. I love it. live, but never could. There are RRX: Following the previ- some songs we worked tirelessly ous question, you’ve produced to make sound like the record or a few people like Jay-Z, Young as close as we could. And there Jeezy, Petey Pablo – people that are some songs we just turn on have a little bit of gold or plati- their heads and play differently num on their walls. Most people live than on the record! No mat- in the public have no idea what ter which way we decide to go, a producer does, and who might endless hours of rehearsal go into need one. . If you had to “elevator making those types of decisions. pitch” the role, how would you go RRX: Going back ten years about it? ago, you had a song, “Crispy Ben- Mirk: “Producer” can mean jamins,” that was produced, and many things to many people. ultimately purchased, by Jay-Z In the case of the aforemen- and Rocnation. Now, producing tioned group of artists, it was as music that’s then sold is as old a co-writer, making the music as music, I’m guessing. But as a they then added lyrics too. Or creative, passing on your work in the case of Ciara and Young when you know someone will Geezy, adding the beat to the lyr- have agency over it, is it at all ics that were already laid down bittersweet? since it was a remix. But Diddy Mirk: At this point in my life aka Puff Daddy calls himself a and career I really enjoy the col- producer, and he simply finds/ laborative aspect of music. Cur- funds the production and has rently I’m working with a hand- ful of artists, that I’m co-creating Continued on Page 28... Page 18 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Soul Soothing and the Paths to Origin People who’ve made their mark on history wind up on pedestals. But knives, brass knuckles, zip guns that never worked. People nev- Eddie Knowles would much rather be down to earth. er really got shot. Back then, you were recruited into a gang. The big gang at the time was the En- glishmen. They decided I was a different kind of guy – I liked to read, play sports, baseball, bas- ketball, so they never drafted me into a gang. In fact, I was the guy who never cursed – as much as I curse today. I remember the first time I cursed, and my cousin was like, “yo man, you cursed!” That went on for a few days. Then we’d be out, and the street lamp would go on, and my mom would come to the second-floor window of the tenement and shout “EDDIE. EDDIE!” and everyone would yell... “HEY EDDIE – your moth- er’s calling you.” The whole block would be yellin’ that it was time to go home. I hated that. I could see that the light came on. She didn’t have to yell. RRX: What was it that drove you to be more interested on education? Photo provided. Ade: Well, number one was Eddie Ade Knowles (far right) with Ensemble Congeros the way my mother raised us. I had both my parents, but I was By Dick Beach meaning of like, the universe and would call it today the hood. Back raised in a matriarchy, she was everything – also Jackie Robin- then, it was the Hood. And I just the real matriarch. This is a son’s number. want to say that if I had to grow woman who didn’t have a 3rd RX: We are speaking Ade: Thank you. up all over again, I would do it grade education. In fact, if you with former VP of Student RRX: Let’s start with where in the same place, with the same put my father and mother’s sec- RLife, and current pro- you grew up, things you remem- guys that I hung out with all the ondary education together it add- fessor of practice at RPI, Eddie ber that you may have liked or time, played ball – everyday I’d ed up to all of about 7 years. So, Ade Knowles, and if you went to not liked, friends, family and get up, go to school, come home when I got past the 6th grade, RPI any time in the last, say, 30 the like – things that you found do my homework and then go out there was no one who could help years….. influential. and play sports and games. We me with my homework. But my Ade: 42. Ade: So, I grew up on 117th had gangs. But not gangs like Mother and Father valued educa- RRX: 42 years – to some the street in west Harlem – people you know today. Ya know, we had tion and I’ll tell you a funny story January 2020 Page 19 Music Art Culture Revolution that relates to this whole idea of book club. They thanked me for to Bronx Community college, we that point. And I tell my students my evolution in this 5-room rail- sending the books back and that formed an organization called today, that I am not very good at road tenement in Harlem. I loved after reading my letter and that Simba, which means lion in Swa- this, but I will practice and prac- to read. We had an elementary I was in the 5th grade, they were hili. We began opening chapters tice until I learn it. Well, the first school right around the corner going to give me a 2-year sub- at all the CUNY campuses with performance I didn’t embarrass and I see all these kids going to scription for free. African names. There was an anyone who actually knew what school and I ask my mother, when RRX: You have mentioned article in The Times that talked they were doing. Next thing, can I go, when Is my turn? So, that there were gangs in the about this and how black nation- Charlie phones me up and says, first day, I go to school and when neighborhood, and you were alists were taking over the cam- “Hey, be here at 1 o’clock tomor- I leave, there I am with my book more interested in education and puses. This is the time when I got row for rehearsal”. Well, I end bag and my coloring books. I’m the like and weren’t drafted in. into drumming with the Simba up going, and the previous per- in the 1st grade so I’m not doing You not being drafted by a gang, dancers and drummers. When I formance had gone so well, that anything heavy and there is my was that a disappointment to transferred to Lincoln Universi- I walk in and there are now all father, come to pick me up. And you? Did you feel left out? ty, this is the oldest historically these fine ladies who want to be I ask what are you doing here. Ade: No. At the time a gang black university in the country part of it……and that lightbulb Your mother told me to come pick was more about protecting the with alums the likes of Thurgood goes off in my head. you up. And I am like, ‘what, neighborhood. All the guys I was Marshall and Langston Hughes, Well, along come Denny Zulu, this is the block.’ He walked in hangin’ with were in the gang. in 1967, it was a hot bed for peo- he has the longest running Afri- front of me…..all the way home. I The thing that I admire so much ple who coming from Africa as can American dance company in could not wait to go to school. especially now, especially the way political refugees. For a number the US. He is so impressed, he And I had this teacher, Mrs. these gangs act now, shooting of reasons, it was no wonder the adopts our group, he gives les- Schwartz, who taught me how to your grandmother, or my aunt, FBI was watching and listening. sons. Ultimately, he invites me to read. She turned me on to the while they are really out there to Turns out, the VP and dean of his professional group and I was world of books and reading. So, shoot one person and they spray. students was an informant for the a singer and ultimately recorded I got something in the mail from They don’t care, they have no re- FBI. I found out years later that three albums with him. When I some book club, and I could get spect for life. Whereas back then, I had a file, because in 1969 I was get to Lincoln, I decide to study 10 books for 10 cents and then when the gangs were going to in the hospital and they called my history and music seriously. I they would send me more books, have a rumble, they would have mom, because they had me on a went on to perform with a num- one a month. I am not read- warlords, who would meet to dis- list of people to watch, and they ber of groups over the years. ing the find print. So my mom cuss the time and the place where wanted to know my whereabouts, Well, the man who ran the arts had a talented carpenter come the rumble was going to be. Then with I am in the hospital at Ford- center and music practice areas, and build this bookcase that word went out, on Thursday there ham. My phone was tapped, and wasn’t going to have any of the was behind the door, ‘cause we was going to be a rumble between they were so lousy at it that I “jungle music” played there. So, had trundle beds and stuff in a 5 the Englishmen and the Sports- picked up the phone, there was no we played in the chapel at night. room tenement. So, I am filling men over at Morningside park dial tone and they were talking. The building was locked, so I this bookcase, and my mother is at 7pm – and I wasn’t going to RRX: How did you get from would go with Gil (Gil Scott Her- like, “are you sure this is free.” Morningside park. being introduced to drumming on) and we would slide open the And I am, yeah. RRX: You learned a great with Simba to being a profes- partly cracked windows to get in. So, finally I get a letter from deal from many corners of the sional musician, in and out of the We called him spiderman, ‘cause the book club that I owe them, civil rights movement from your business and now, back more into he was thin and could jump. like 6 months of books. And elders, including Malcolm X at it? Those practices where what later they were going to send a collec- Mosque Number 7. Did it ever Ade: Well, it wasn’t a plan, became Gil Scott Heron and the tion agent. I show it to my moth- come to pass that there might be I can tell you that. Simba was Midnight Band. er, she freaks out. I send them a a file somewhere in the bowels of about promoting and education RRX: I wanted to go down letter with the books, I’m sorry, I the FBI on you? about the history of Africa. My the Midnight Band path a bit. thought the books were free, I’m Ade: Well, I didn’t learn friend Charlie, we have been How many of the original albums only in the fifth grade. Sometime about that until later when I went friends since, like, the 5th grade, thereafter, I get a letter from the to college, because when I went insists, and it was pretty bad at Continued on Page 30... This is Sax O Claus. We’ve decided not to kill We don’t know if he’s drunk. you with intense graphics right here. We know you’re still drunk. Hell, we’re still drunk... what a party. But we’ll be here for you, and we promise to bring you nothing but the best this 2020. ... just not today. (Aspirin can be sent to 35D Saratoga Rd., Waterford, NY 12188.) Sax O Claus

Photo Courtesy of Rudy Lu Page 22 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Life in the Sway of the Dial Decades of guiding our soundtrack have made radio hitman Jason Keller top gun.

By Liam Sweeny interview or profile, how did you make it yours? JK: When interviewing some- n lonely stretches of road, one, no matter the setting, one where the houses are only must establish a rapport with close enough to let you O that person within ten seconds. know you’re in habitable land, Set the tone immediately, and en- he’s been your copilot, the only gage your subject. I’ve found that one you’ve trusted to mess with most people will follow you down the music. He screws around the path of an interview if they with you at the office, when all sense that you’re in control of the the ‘kill me now’ memes apply. moment, credible, and that you’re He’s brought you the greatest and a genuine and curious person. most hated, and in both cases, Also, learn to wrap it up; be a he’s gone unsung. gymnast, have a dismount ready. Jason Keller has been all RRX: Radio is so close, so over the map in radioland, most human. We live in a Spotify uni- notably (for me, anyway) on verse, but on that long drive, in 103.5/103.9 (The Edge) 103.1 that room in the dark, your voice (Channel 103.1/WHRL) and 102.7 might be the only friendly one a (WEQX.) More than just season- person has heard all day. When ing the upstate New York and you’re in the studio, do you ever Vermont airwaves, he’s brought think that you might be some- to your attention the best of one’s only friend? Do you ever get what happens here with care and emails, messages, or phone calls? professionalism. JK: If I am someone’s only We sit down with Jason and friend, well then, I’m privileged talk about hunting for UFOs with to be in such a position. Yes, I radio waves. do get a variety of messages on RRX: You’ve had decades of many topics through all different experience doing what I’m just mediums; there is no shortage beginning to do here, in terms of ways to contact anyone at this of cultivating content that’s go- point. I’m glad I also got to brief- ing to hit a wide audience. And ly experience the era of getting obviously, as it is here, you don’t actual letters written to a radio usually get an open hand; there’s station. Literal fan mail was re- usually an ‘assignment desk’ of ally a special experience; seeing sorts. When you had a ‘must get’ someone’s handwriting was very Photo provided. January 2020 Page 23 Music Art Culture Revolution

of my career at a rock sta- (thanks to my first program di- of personality driven radio, and telling; especially from prisoners. tion in Albany called Channel rector Steve Cormier,) and The the more intriguing the staff the So on the topic of what I think 103.1; I wrapped up my morn- Edge was already a highly rated better. I also think expanding a about when the mic is on, I’d say ing show at 10am on a random alternative Rock station in the song play list is never a bad thing. most of us who do this are always Friday, and by 10:03 on that Capital Region; I was fortunate There is absolutely no shortage trying to deftly balance multiple same Friday I no longer had a to be in a position to be exposed of compelling, accessible, music variables: Relevance of the top- job. Two days later the station to such a sizeable audience. The that would most definitely change ic being addressed, proper tim- flipped formats and it became program director, Dan Binder, vast numbers of lives with just a ing of the music and production the FM simulcast of news/talk took a chance on me and offered little more airplay. I am proud to elements, the improvisation of 810 WGY. Surviving a format me my first full time radio show. I be part of a radio station that en- descriptive word choices, mak- change you ask? One, remem- wanted this so bad, but I definite- courages irreverence, and contin- ing an actual point with those ber that you are not just your ly remember being nauseous that ually champions new music while words, and doing all of this while radio show, it is simply an ex- first day and thinking that taking celebrating important library running the soundboard. Anyone tension of you. Two, embrace this job was a terrible move. After tracks. who has access to a radio show new professional paths. Three, my first week, I chilled out a bit RRX: I mentioned Spotify knows how fickle the entire field don’t be bitter - it’s not a good and never looked back. Each day in a previous question, and I’m is – impress your audience. look. the Howard probably one of the last people to RRX: Radio is a passion, RRX: Stern morn- have a car that isn’t as hooked up one that we all clearly love, but “I also think expanding a song You fol- ing show as my phone. And if 5G starts to it’s a business too. Now WEQX lowed play list is never a bad thing. would end at get implemented, WiFi is going has been in the same musical Howard a totally dif- to reach as many people as tow- niche since I was a kid, which, There is absolutely no shortage of Stern on ferent time. er-driven radio waves. So how without aging me, is high praise. 103.5 / compelling, accessible, music that Middays does radio stay relevant over the But formats change faster than 103.9, the (my show ‘rise of the machines’? musical tastes change. Have you would most definitely change Edge. So at the time) JK: This question requires had to cope with any radical for- you had vast numbers of lives with just a were defined me to be a bit of an oracle, which mat changes where you worked? the full by 10am I am certainly not. I do though What’s the key to surviving one? little more airplay.” listen- to 3pm, so absolutely find it beneficial JK: EQX is one of the last ership; I when Stern to acknowledge technological great independently owned al- don’t remember changing the would sometimes go to 11am, trends, continually read indus- ternative stations in America; we channel, don’t think anyone some of my ratings were essen- try trades, attend broadcasting just passed the 35 year mark. I’ve else did. I don’t like ‘what was tially a gift from him. Thanks conventions, and to learn how to been doing the 3-7pm afternoon it like’ questions, but seeing as Howard. properly implement new plat- show on EQX since 2013, but the how you’ve been so well trav- RRX: What I like about radio, forms while never losing site of inaugural day of the station was eled across the dial, are there as opposed to streaming DIY, is the real task everyday: creating on November 4th, 1984. This day truths that come with follow- that it’s person-to-person. Some- compelling content. I think as a cemented our station founder, ing a national syndication? one is turning me on to music, society we are far away from the the late Brooks Brown, as a true JK: During the mid/late someone I could run into in the FCC dismantling the radio tow- legend. I really have to thank sta- 1990s, I was still very new store. Do you think that larg- ers, and the stations who hold tion owner Mimi Brown, and our to all of this, and coming on er stations are missing some- those FCC licenses are going to program director Jeff Morad, for right after Howard Stern was thing when they playing me the continually find ways to serve, fostering a continual environ- a great motivator to not com- same twenty-four songs every benefit, and entertain their local ment of creativity and indepen- pletely suck. At first it was a bit day. What can they learn about a communities. dence. I did spend a significant daunting since I hadn’t real- ‘grassroots’ approach? amount of time working for large ly done many radio shows in JK: I think all radio stations Read the full article on the radio conglomerates, and yes – I the daylight. I was about one have to do what they have to do Xperience Blog at www.radiora- have experienced a radical format year into doing weekend over- to stay solvent. I will though al- diox.com. change. I enjoyed over a decade nights in Burlington, Vermont ways advocate for the benefits Page 24 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Presents

Jan. 11 Seapods & Friends wsg Glass Pony Putnam Place, Saratoga, NY

Jan. 18 Everyone orchestra wsg Eggy Putnam Place, Saratoga, NY

Jan. 23 Ghost of Paul Revere wsg Saints & Liars The Hollow, Albany, NY

Jan. 24 Bella’s Bartok and West End Blend The Hollow, Albany, NY

Jan. 28 Too Many Zoos wsg Birocratic The Hollow, Albany, NY

Jan. 31 Tragedy: The All Metal Tribute to the Bee Gees Now and Beyond wsg Tradition 333 Broadway Troy Serving (Inside the Quackenbush Building) Breakfast The Hollow, Albany, NY (518) 712-9099 For info and tickets, go to www.burritosquared.com guthriebellproductions.com or facebook.com/guthriebell January 2020 Page 25 Music Art Culture Revolution From the gateway to the Adirondacks, punk band Totally Tales from the Ripped Gnarly is blazing trails.

Photography by Sarah Winner

which we affectionately dubbed ‘the Mansion’ which became the birthplace of Gnarly. We had a lot of booze-soaked nights that would end in acoustic jamborees. I think these occa- L-R: Adam Hannis, Tony sions offered us the chance to get Anzalone, Glen our bearings with our vocals, and Springstead, Jason eventually became the blueprint James Bowie, Jim Nellis for Gnarly. Having multiple vocalists has opened up a number of doors and formed Ratorum and eventually an opportunity to expand on a Jason when we formed the metal songs story. We all like to write act GoatFight. collectively, so the layered vo- RRX: So if I’m not mistak- cals sometimes lend themselves en according to what I’ve read it to various personal perspectives, looks as though the entire band or the option to add emphasis By Rob Smittix RRX: For those that don’t provides backing vocals. I noticed to certain plot points. The song know, what was it that brought this to be a trend lately and I feel ‘Blackout’ for instance includes you fellas together? as though there might be at least four different drunken black hen it comes to real GS: We have all been close two other guys in my group that out experiences that each of the punk rock believe me friends for 20+ years, and that need to step it up on that front. members have endured. Wit is still being made. friendship was founded and GS: With Totally Gnarly we RRX: It’s been brought to my When it comes to local punk forged through music. When you try to layer up vocals and harmo- attention that Totally Gnarly has bands Totally Gnarly will always come from a small-rural com- nies when we can. Music com- just released a new album Tales come to mind. Band members in- munity, your friends kind of find position is a finite art. There are from the Ripped can you tell us clude: Adam Harris (guitar/vox), you. A battle of the bands at Glov- only so many chords, so it’s up to about the new music and what Tony Zalone (guitar/vox), Jim ersville High School circa 1996 is the composer to add variations to folks are to expect from the new Nellis (bass/vox), Jason James where Adam and I first crossed those chords and thicken up the songs? Bowie (drums/vox) and Glen aka paths with Tony. Soon after he song with interesting vocal melo- GS: Tales from the Ripped Rufus Red (vocals). Today I had joined the fold of our first band, dy to differentiate the song from is our third release and is the the chance to speak with lead Johnny Apple Cock. In the follow- others. We really started focus- one that I am most proud of be- vocalist Glen about the band and ing years, JAC’s musical endeav- ing attention to this when a few of cause it’s the first one written as their bright future. ors lead us to Jim when he and I us were renting a house together Continued on Page 26... Page 26 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution

Continued from Page 25. plays the role of the man’s thera- the closest ‘scene’ for the style alive and well in Totally Gnarly. pist, inevitably filling him full of of music we play, and the people RRX: So what’s next? a collaborative front. Gnarly has swill and sending him back out and promoters have always wel- GS: Gnarly is about to bat- always had its own sound due to the world to repeat these same comed us with open arms, and ten down the hatches for an- to the fact that we have always actions over again and again. for that we are forever grateful. other north country winter and played music together in various RRX: So I have to ask and Outside of the Albany scene we Adam has embarked on some bands throughout the years. I feel don’t by any means take this the also put on our own gigs around warm weather exploits to beat the this is the first album in which we wrong way but where the hell is our area. Our good friend is a bar freeze. The rest of us are plan- have really found our groove as Mayfield? owner and has been very help- ning on working out some new a band. It still has a manic ap- GS: Mayfield is roughly an ful to us over the years, allowing music and carrying Adam’s torch proach to the various genres that hour Northwest of Albany. It’s Aaron’s Irish Pub in Gloversville of a yearly fundraising benefit we love, but it has a much more the gateway to the Adirondack to be our hometown hangout. We show called the Jamzilla Benefit. cohesive vibe from track to track. Park. We all live either there or have thrown many ragers there, We are entering our 10th anniver- Slightly more focused than the in adjoining towns, and it is our so if you are looking to book some sary of raising money and aware- other releases. home base. There isn’t really a bands, that is the place to go. ness of Alzheimer’s Disease. The The subject matter is all over nightlife, but there is a wealth of RRX: So haters have been benefit spotlights local artists and the board, but so are we. ‘The musical talent that goes unno- saying punk rock is dead for de- all proceeds benefit Alzheimer’s Great Contender’ for instance ticed due to a lack venues... un- cades but collectively we keep research. The members of Gnarly is a bar room anthem for a man less, of course if you are a coun- proving them wrong. Where do actually make the core of a bene- who has burned all of his bridg- try music cover band. Despite the you see the punk genre going and fit band collaborative called ‘Way es and at the end of the day, the rural aspects, it’s a beautiful area where do you see your role in its 2 Big Band’ which we plan on only shoulder he has to lean on is that has offered us many a good future? busting out at Jamzilla 10 Feb. that of his bartender. The barkeep time. Albany has always been GS: As far as the ‘punk rock 29th, 2020 at Aaron’s Irish Pub is dead’ crowd is concerned, I Gloversville, NY would say that genre-titles are dead. Music is a living, evolving entity and as it evolves, it sheds Big Business titles and classification. As a band Capabilities with a you can make a choice to cram Small Business your art into a neat and tidy box, MDR or you can let it breathe and see Character PRINTING where it naturally takes you... so punk is not dead, it has just grown up and has a job and bills 7AM - 4PM to pay. We have always stuck to a DIY-ethos, so the punk spirit is 7AM - 12PM

CLOSED

Send Us YourDocuments [email protected] (518) 238-9005 91 Ontario Street, Cohoes, NY 12047 January 2020 Page 27 Music Art Culture Revolution

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Continued from Page 17. your songs become music vid- in the beginning and let them do education... JK, but seriously... I eos. “Away” and “Sunshine” were the rest. It’s what they do! They would like to thank you for think- final say in what makes the cut. both great. Video, being the mix hired actors, found locations, ing of me for an interview! If I Dr. Dre hires musicians and has of sight and sound, gives you even created shooting schedules, and have one piece of advice I’d like them replay classic samples to more chance to innovate and then made the magic. We provid- to give your readers it’s this, If avoid paying mechanicals, and experiment with a feeling that ed the music and the funds. We you’re making music, do it be- ensure the “Dre Sonics” and then either one can achieve by them- “produced” the videos in a sense. cause you love it! If you do it for makes bangers with them. Jim- selves. How do you enhance the Lol any other reason you will inevita- my Iovene paired the right songs story, and the feel, of your song RRX: Here is where you can bility be let down. I mean even if with the right artists and made from behind the camera? answer the question I didn’t ask. you love it, you’ll be let down, but sure the mics were set up in the Mirk: In my experience, Is studio coffee always better then you’ll be able to bounce back right position and plugged into that’s the directors job. Haha. than road coffee? Holograms on because love conquers all! the right preamps. I try to do all And mostly they take that shit CD cases – yea or nay? Enlight- of the above! I’d say the produc- seriously and have a hard time en, educate, emote – the floor is ers job is to make sure the record giving up control of what’s hap- yours. they are involved in “producing” pening. We just released a series Mirk: Morning coffee is the sounds amazing and that can of four videos directed by Cro- best no matter where it is... CD’s? mean being a co-writer, mixer, moscope. We let them pick the What are those.?! One of my money guy, and everything in songs, and present a treatment. many trades in the music in- between. As a whole the group of videos is dustry is in fact teaching Music RRX: You’ve been hitting the a piece of art and I’m glad we did Recording and Engineering at 518 scene lately, but a few years it that way. We made a sugges- The New School Center for Me- ago, you toured the country, ul- tion of what we were looking for dia so you’d have to pay for that timately winding up in the 2012 SXSW Festival in Austin, Texas. Photo provided. That festival seemed to come out of nowhere, but that’s just me liv- ing under a rock, But it’s a badge of honor to play at it. What are some other badges of honor you got from the road? Mirk: Touring at all in any meaningful way in this day and age is badge of honor in itself. It’s great to hang out with your best friends and do one of your favorite things to do for a group of like minded people! If you can do what you love for a living, you will never work a day in your life! And sure music is still work, but also I run a recording stu- dio (Foster House Studios Alba- ny, NY) so I also know people are willing to pay to make music all day long. I’m super lucky to get to do it for a living! RRX: You’ve had a few of January 2020 Page 29 Music Art Culture Revolution

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Hollywood Bowl. Well, the dean to quit her job and go back to said I couldn’t go….and there school. Eddie Ade Knowles (Cont.) were reasons we won’t discuss RRX: The final question of did you record on? the music world. That’s a tough here. I resigned on the spot. I our interview. What would you Ade: I think it was 6 or 7 balancing act. didn’t tell anyone, my Uncle, my like to say? What is there about RRX: People will know you Ade: I had a mentor back at mother, my wife. you that we don’t know you would from the albums Gorilla, From Bronx Community College who Then a company comes along like us to, or about the world? South Africa to South Carolina, hired me to come back to work in to represent Gil Scott Heron, the Something you would like to say and the most well-known work, this program I had been a student musicians and there is a con- at the end of this interview where The Revolution Will Not Be Tele- in. At the same time, I am play- tract. We wrote out amendments. people will say wow. vised. We’ve spoken in the past ing with Gil. All of the sudden, These are the same lawyers that Ade: The one thing that has and you mention how you would the Gil Scott Heron Experience made the Beatles rich. He says, been crystalized with me, I have carry a $50 or $100 in your sock, is getting big. We are getting all “You guys aren’t going to stay had the experience of having especially when you are travelling kinds of gigs. So, here I am, call- together. None of these groups people say to me, “Ade, Ensemble in the south. ing in sick because we are only do.”. we’re like, “no man, we are Congeros, THEY DON’T LOOK Ade: I got to a point where I supposed to work 6 hours for sup- family.” LIKE YOU. They look like white would carry a minimum of $50 in plemental pay. He says, “Look, we made the people playing African music.”. my sock. With the understand- Well, I have an uncle associat- Beatles wealthy. They didn’t stay There are people who say that ing that we could be stopped and ed with another school of higher together.” Well, we didn’t. Later the group is trying to appropriate they would want to arrest the ed, and I can go, teach African that year, me, Charley and Bob black culture. Not just black peo- driver and we wouldn’t have the Studies as a professor and they Adams are gone. I have a wife, ple are saying this, white people money. There were situations like would pay me more. You know, three kids, a note to pay on the are too. You know what I say? We that. We got stopped one night faculty. You teach your classes, do house, and I had convinced Ajuba are all the decedents of Africa. It on the New York State Thruway. you office hours and it’s all good. This was at a time when there Students are piling into my class- were several shootouts with the es ‘cause they find out who I am… (Black) Panthers on the NJ Turn- and we are hot. I told the Dean I pike. Balal, myself and Charlie was a professional musician and were on the Thruway, and Char- he was, like, make up your classes lie was driving a VW Bug. I’m and everything is good. Well, we sitting in the front with one of the do a gig at Columbia University drums in between my legs. We’re as headliners, and the Dean’s fi- in a VW bug with 3 Conga’s, saxo- ancé buys tickets for the show. phone and the like. Trooper pulls There they are, sitting in the us over; he comes around on my audience. We walk out on stage, side. He sees me sitting there he says “That’s the young profes- with this duffel bag. He says, sor I just hired for African Stud- “Whadda ya got there? Guns? ies”. She goes “You hired him? Hands in the air.” I tell him it’s a Do you know who he is?” Fol- drum. “Hands in the air. Hands lowing Monday, he says “You and in the air.” I gotta have a serious conversa- We get out of the car, hands in tion here.” He ended up being the air. He searches and finds a ecstatic. drum. Mind you, we haven’t bro- Three weeks before the end ken any traffic laws. There were of the academic year, we are many more instances like that. getting ready to do a tour with RRX: For a time, you were Earth, Wind and Fire and The both in the academic world and Weather Report – opening at the January 2020 Page 31 Music Art Culture Revolution is scientific fact that life started These people who are hangin’ in Africa. First man, first wom- with me, they have full time jobs. an come out of Africa. People, You think they are doing this to as they evolved, moved to other appropriate? We are doing this parts of the planet Earth. Diets for the love of what we do, and for changed; environments changed. what we are learning. Of course, physiological changes The big takeaway for me, is occurred too. My brother Abio- that people start to embrace that dun, of The Original Last Poets, we are all one race. And we are said “Ade, they have tripped us all the descendants of Mother into these little boxes. African Africa, and that the drum, is the American. Italian American. vehicle for all of us to connect Irish American. They got us all with the supreme being and the in these little boxes. You’re right community. Chief Bay, the great on top of it, Ade.” It’s the human African American drummer once race. It’s one race. said, “I’ll teach anyone. I don’t We are all Africans. I tell the care who it is.” If you come to me, group all the time. When some- and you want to learn this, who body approaches you with that am I to say no? We are all one bullshit, you tell them. You are fucking people. They are trying African. How are they going to to divide us. I look at the drum refute that shit? They can’t – as a way to really bring people ‘cause it’s a fact. together.

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appy New Year! YEAR 2000 was brought up in knowing my mother and father YOU ARE AS YOU’RE READ- Has the New Year’s conversation, I knew I would be would NEVER say 24/7/365. ING THIS (to paraphrase the film Hhangover finally removed 44 years old then. And I can easily digitally pro- Galaxy Quest) NEVER GIVE UP, itself from your body? A thirteen-year old mind back gram the television shows I want NEVER SURRENDER! Are you confident you can pass then (now?) couldn’t imagine I to watch, unlike my parents who You will ONLY make it in life that “special pee in a cup test” in would be THAT old! never learned how to stop the if you go kicking and screaming order to get a new job? Or in the year 2020, I would DVR from flashing the time. EVERY day! Are you not in jail? be 64! I can still drink alcohol, You will ONLY make it in life if Well then 2020 is off to a rol- I can’t now. though on occasion when doing you FIGHT THE MACHINE! licking start. When you’re 18, you want to so when I say ‘I’m fine’ I’m far You will ONLY make it in life Again, many thanks to those be 21. from it. if you remain the total ELOHSSA who have shown their approv- When you’re 21, you want to Natural substances, cool with you have always been! al to what this old fart has been be 25 that too, though I refer back to Get a mirror to read that last writing about for most of the last When you’re 25, you MAYBE alcohol. one. year. want to be 30. Food? Spicy stuff, unlike base- Get that goal for 2020 nailed And sorry to those who finally When you’re 30, the “want to ball for Chico Escuela, has be- now, grab the New Year’s baby by caught me and realized this is a be” starts to turn to “hope to be”. come berry berry bad to me. the short and curly’s and PROVE fraud, a hoax, a witch hunt. When you’re 40, you know you As I get older, the call of who is boss. Where have I heard those have more to give and more to youthful lust rages on, even if it’s Or get on the horse and ride off words before? live. medically enhanced. into the sunset. Personally, I want to thank the When you’re 50, you start to Or so they say, never catch ME Me? I got more rodeos to staff and management of this fine think about all you have done. taking the little blue pill, cuz I tackle…pilgrim. paper (thanks Artie) for giving When you’re 60, you hope you know where to hide when I DO Thanks for listening. me a forum to have fun, talk se- have enough in the tank. take it. Be hearing you! rious occasionally, but more over When you’re 64, you refuse to In short, no matter MY age, be the general douche I am. give up. and no matter YOURS, these are Welcome to the show my At least I won’t. feelings we ALL experience at friends, to the show that never I consider myself to be lucky certain times in our life. ends (I don’t have to pay a royalty in that I work in a business that If I were to offer you wise and on that, do I?) keeps me young, keeps me up to sage advice, it would be quite With 2020 upon us, let’s talk date with the world, keeps me as simple, NO MATTER HOW OLD New Year, New You, but Old Me. the douche I have been the previ- No matter your age, one al- ous 63 years. ways wonders what the future However, it’s a struggle to keep will bring, that mindset on a daily basis. One always wonders if they WE (meaning anyone who will MAKE the future. gets older, no matter how young- (This is where the OLD in er they are now, don’t sue me Bob CRANKY OLD GUY comes in) Dylan) must be working 24/7/365 When you were a kid, did you to avoid turning into our parents, ever think of what the adult you no matter how much nurture was going to be like? takes over. I hit 13 in 1969, when THE I’m already ahead of the game Page 34 January 2020 Music Art Culture Revolution Robert Hugh Sweeny

1948 - 2019 T he Spirit Lives on in the Music January 2020 Page 35 Music Art Culture Revolution In Memoriam Janis Joplin at the 1967 Monterey lbany – Robert Hugh Pop Festival, and throughout the Sweeny, 71, died on De- country living the life Jack Ker- Acember 16th, 2019 at Alba- ouac spoke of in On the Road. ny Medical Center after a tragic Aside from providing for his accident. family and quietly supporting He leaves his wife of 45 years, a tremendous amount of good Mary Anne Becker-Sweeny; his work in the community, he as- son, Liam Michael Sweeny; his sisted with programming at Ra- brothers and sisters, James and dioradiox.com, and had begun to Sophia Sweeny and Thomas hand out food with the homeless Sweeny, and countless friends. outreach group Street Soldiers, Born in Dallas-Fort Worth and which he truly enjoyed. raised in Beekman, he graduat- A memorial service will be ed from Arlington High School announced on social media for and hit the open road, finding friends and family. Donations himself in Gainesville during the can be made in his name to the early years of Tom Petty, in Cal- American Red Cross, Eastern ifornia to see Jimi Hendrix and New York Region.

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pounding, anything that moves By Liam Sweeny me. Because that’s what music is for me; a nuclear reactor that t the end of the day we sit, powers my inner life. But dad, he, leans back, resting an sitting there noodling, learning AIbanez semi hollow-body not to strike out for glory, but to on his full belly, and me, cross- finally embrace a part of himself, legged, lording over a Mexican was humbling, which felt just a Strat, staring at the burnholes in hair strange. the stock from many a long night We talk for hours. When I was of holding cigarettes, and at least in diapers, I had my ass wiped to a handful of not-so-cigarettes. John Mayall and the Bluesbreak- And we are at peace. ers. I toddled through the back- I play softly but deliberately, yards of our family friends as showing my father the fingering they’d sit around a work-in-prog- style I use, and the shapes of the ress Camaro with Lynyrd Sky- chords as I wrap my rough hands nyrd blasting through the chain around the shapes of A and D and links. As I grew, I learned design E. He keeps up, and even though from checking out his album cov- his strings buzz because his fin- ers, and I claimed residency in gers aren’t quite there yet, he the alcove that held the record makes up for the buzz by pump- player, and the milk crates that ing his grip to make a rhythm held pure magic. pounce out of the sound holes. So we play, and in my guidance We take breaks and sip coffee, and instruction, I give to him ev- and I listen as he tells me how erything he’s given to me. There’s many songs changed the world coffee in the pot and in steaming with the three chords he was mugs on the kitchen table. Just playing. the way we like them. We have different tastes, but I might wake up soon, and our undercurrents come from he’ll be gone. But right now, I’m the same ocean. I like anything teaching him harmonies.

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