Listening Lyrics

Meet Harald Tollerup — Davis High School senior, jazz saxophonist, journalist, and a young man who treats the future like it's his personal playground (and he's already winning). Harald dropped by the studio this week with a playlist he hand-picked himself. Now, I believe a playlist says a lot about a person — and Harald's? It spoke volumes. It was creative, honest, and refreshingly original … just like the guy who made it. Not only does Harald share the soundtrack of his world, he also brings out the sax and plays live — because why just talk about jazz when you can be jazz? It's one great hour of community radio — don't miss it!

Bobby Young and Nick Young of The Bobby Young Project join us in the studio today. For over 50 years Bobby has had a love affair with music, and the guitar. Strongly influenced by the likes of Hendrix, Clapton, Alvin Lee, Leslie West, Sly Stone and Freddie Stone, he has played and recorded with a long list of people including; The Natural Four, Sugar Pie DeSanto, Richard "Dimples" Fields, John Lee Hooker, Maria Muldaur, Jimmy McCracklin, Craig Horton, Snooky Flowers, Cool Papa, Archie Lee Hooker, Zakiya Hooker, and Alabama Mike.

This week on Listening Lyrics, I threw caution to the wind and handed over the keys—well, the playlist—to none other than Ray Keck (pictured), a Davis legend and music maestro in disguise. Ray didn't just walk into the studio—he stormed it with a playlist so good, I briefly questioned my own musical taste. (Don't worry, I recovered.) And behind the mic? Ray was smoother than a jazz sax solo at midnight. The guy was born for radio—I'm pretty sure his voice came with built-in reverb. Thanks for gracing us with your presence, Ray, and for not hijacking the station entirely. We'll keep your chair warm. P.S. This is our fund-raising week, and wouldn't you know it? Ray contributed so he could receive his own special KDRT T-shirt. www.kdrt.org/donate Check out the playlist.

Today's show is a mish-mash of music, but in essence it's celebrating the end of the week. -------------------It's Friday---------------------------

Here Comes The Space Cow is more than just a new LP — it's the sound of four musicians overflowing with talent but also bound by something deeper. This group plays like they were born to find each other, blending jazz grooves with just the right dash of funk. It's tight, soulful, and polished in the way only seasoned artists can pull off. Roger Kunkel (in photo) stopped by the studio to give us a taste, spinning a few tracks and gracing us with a couple of mesmerizing live performances on guitar. It was pure magic. Roger Kunkel -- Guitar, vocals.   Stoo Odom --  Stand up bass, vocals.   Bart VanDer Zeuuw -- Drums.   Max Hart -- Hammond organ, pedal steel guitar. Roger spent his 20s touring and recording as the electric guitarist for Thin White Rope, a critically acclaimed Davis band that released five albums and played venues from CBGB to the Soviet Union to the Reading Festival. Though the group disbanded in 1992, their legacy endures, with The Guardian dubbing them cult heroes in 2015 and all five albums reissued in 2018. In the late '90s, Kunkel shifted gears, forming the jazz-surf-rock group Acme Rocket Quartet, which gained a following in the San Francisco Lounge scene. By the early 2000s, he stepped back from live performance to focus on family and study acoustic instruments like bluegrass guitar, mandolin, and fiddle. More recently, he has returned to performing with the retro country band Mike Blanchard and the Californios, released a solo acoustic album, and revived Acme Rocket Quartet.

A great hour of songs reflecting the topic of "lying." That's all that needs to be said. Absorb it all.

Well, that was a first! In 13 years of hosting Listening Lyrics, I have never—never—forgotten that I had a guest band scheduled. My plan was set, a themed show ready to roll… until I played my first scheduled set. And just like that, everything changed. Enter Rainbow City Park. This insanely talented indie-rock/dream pop band from Northern California took the studio by storm. Their sound is a beautiful collision of '90s alt-rock nostalgia and modern indie influences like Phoebe Bridgers, Diiv, and Pinegrove. Hailing from Sacramento, Davis, and San Francisco, they bring a raw, emotional depth to their music that's impossible to ignore. What started as an unexpected shift turned into an incredible interview, diving deep into their latest EP, Fruitless—a collection of five sonically diverse, thought-provoking tracks. And let me tell you, if you're feeling sluggish and need an adrenaline rush straight to your ears, crank up the title track, "Fruitless." You won't regret it. Keep an eye on their website because Rainbow City Park is about to take the West Coast by storm. You're going to want to be there for the ride.

Sometimes, the best moments happen on a whim. While riding my bike, I heard music drifting through the air and followed the sound. That's when I found Leyna on piano and Quy on guitar—two students completely lost in their moment of zen. Though music isn't their major, it's their passion, and their talent was undeniable. I knew I had to invite them to share their gift. After all, this is community radio—an hour of heartfelt conversation and music, from them to you. Enjoy.

The Black Legacy Project is a musical celebration of Black history to advance racial solidarity, equity, and belonging. It is a national project produced by Music in Common -- a nonprofit that strengthens, empowers, and connects communities through the universal language -- in partnership with community stakeholders at the local level. Developed in summer 2020 and launched in September 2021, the Black Legacy Project travels the U.S., bringing together Black and White artists and artists of ALL backgrounds to record present day interpretations of songs central to the Black American experience and compose originals relevant to the pressing calls for change of our time. Community roundtable discussions help inform how these songs are interpreted and written. The project has launched with week-long residencies in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts, Atlanta, Los Angeles, the Mississippi Delta, Denver, the Arkansas Ozarks, and Boise. A feature-length documentary film and seven-part docuseries are in production, highlighting the project and some of the many places it has traveled to. Two albums, Vol. 1 and Vol. 2, feature 24 songs reimagined, written, and recorded in the project.

Amidst musical performances, rigorous studies, and global travels, Jacob Johnson crafted a remarkable book. Entitled Are You There God? It's Me, Darwin, this insightful work translates the intricate world of animal behavior into accessible, non-technical prose. Johnson's engaging narrative empowers readers of all backgrounds to grasp this fascinating subject. The book's Amazon release is eagerly anticipated on Feb. 12, 2025. A native of Ann Arbor, Mich., and a fervent devotee of his home state, Johnson is pursuing a doctorate in animal behavior at the University of California, Davis. His profound affection for nature and scientific inquiry blossomed amidst the verdant Michigan forests and captivating exhibits of his childhood museums. Following his undergraduate pursuits at the University of Chicago in 2015, where he immersed himself in the vibrant worlds of science communication, ecology, and astrophysics, Johnson's multifaceted talents truly flourished. His relentless academic endeavors were not confined to the classroom; he concurrently founded a student musical ensemble, penned theatrical works, produced a short-form television program, and even released a musical album—a testament to his ingenious ability to harmonize artistic expression with scientific curiosity. His undergraduate thesis, a compelling analysis of 21st-century science communication, explored strategies for rendering complex scientific concepts engaging and accessible, particularly within challenging socio-cultural contexts. Johnson is completing his doctoral studies, driven by an ambitious vision: to seamlessly integrate his three dominant passions—scientific investigation, musical creativity, and persuasive communication—into a singular, impactful career.

Meet Gordie Nodge, a farmer from Saskatchewan who spends part of the winter in Davis. He is an exceptional banjo player with captivating original songs. You can sometimes catch him performing his 5-string banjo at the Davis Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. He's also an enthusiastic regular at the Music Circle, held every Friday at noon at the Wyatt Pavilion at UC Davis. In this broadcast, Gordie even set some lyrics I wrote to music. Fun fact: Gordie busked at the Davis Farmers Market on Saturday and generously donated all his earnings to KDRT. Thank you, Gordie!

We start the new year with Alex Roth saying goodbye to his adopted city. The moment is at times emotional and uplifting. You also can say goodbye as he will perform the "Leaving Las Davis" show at Sudwerk on Thursday Jan. 16, 2025, at 9 p.m. Alex Roth is a cherished icon in Davis, where genuine community impactors are few and far between. He stands among the exceptional. His musical prowess and generous spirit are legendary; his performances have graced countless local benefits, including the momentous celebration for the start of KDRT in 2004. Remember his unique enterprise? Alex, powered solely by his own legs, delivered his meticulously hand-roasted coffee throughout Davis, his bicycle becoming a symbol of connection, a ritual weaving the town's fabric together with the rich aroma of his exceptional brew. To know Alex was to befriend him, to be touched by his kindness, to be enriched. Now, as he embarks on his overseas adventure, Davis will miss his unique presence. Alex, you have indelibly shaped Davis's character; you've made it a better place. From all of us at KDRT: Farewell, and thank you for the enduring legacy you leave behind. A Poem for Alex read on the air. In a town where melodies softly play, Lived a musician who brightened the day. With strings in his hands and rhythm in soul, He made the music that made others whole. On a humble bike with a purpose clear, He delivered warmth, both far and near. Coffee brewed with care and grace, Each cup brought joy, a friendly face. Through rain or shine, with steadfast heart, He played his role, a vital part. A song, a brew, a smile, a cheer, He made the town feel warm, feel near. Now as he moves to distant lands, He leaves behind his loving hands. A legacy of tunes and beans, In every heart, his spirit gleans. For though he journeys to another place, He's left his mark, a warm embrace. A town transformed by his gentle art, A musician's soul, a generous heart.

Rumi Shimada, a musician, composer, and lyricist from Northern California, continues to demonstrate his dedication to the craft with his latest EP release, Groping Around for the Light Switch. In the studio today, Rumi is accompanied by percussionist Aidan Marr on the cajon. Their live performances, enriched by several additional tunes, brought depth and vibrancy to an hour of immersive music, showcasing two talented artists in their element.

When a young guitarist with a passion for musical excellence walks into the room, you can feel the energy shift. His idols are not your typical mainstream names, but rather the likes of the innovative Blake Mills, the soulful Adrianne Lenker, and the prodigious Julian Lage. As he settles in for our interview, it's clear this will be no ordinary conversation. Noah Cole (pictured), hailing from the vibrant music scene of Sacramento, is a force to be reckoned with. Noah showcases his talents as a guitarist in various bands, including the renowned Rowan McQuire and the dynamic Nat Leftkoff, and pays it forward as a guitar instructor. His dedication to his craft is palpable. We are treated to a live performance, where he flawlessly demonstrates his fingerpicking techniques, and for the first time we are graced with his vocal abilities as a solo artist. This hour of pure musical magic will leave you wanting more. Sit back, relax, and let the words and music of Noah Cole whisk you away on a journey of sound and emotion. This is not just an interview, it's an experience. Let's dive in and discover the depth of talent and passion within this rising star. See playlist below for the  recorded music played in this episode

Prepare to be blown away by two of the most talented and inspiring musicians to grace our studio. Al Vasquez, a master percussionist and vocalist, joined forces with the legendary Bill Edwards on guitar. Despite some minor technical difficulties at the start, their raw talent and passion shone through in every note. As I sat there, surrounded by the electric energy of their live performance, I felt like I was transported into a recording studio. Their musical chemistry was undeniable, and I was honored to witness it firsthand. But enough from me, let their music speak for itself as you listen to the show. Al will be gracing our local venues soon, so mark your calendars. On December 28, catch his quartet at Davis Wine Bar. And on January 25, don't miss his performance at the Winters Opera House alongside the incredible Dave Nachmanoff. Don't miss this opportunity to experience pure musical talent at its finest. Trust me, this hour will be a gift to your senses. So be swept away by the captivating performances you will witness.

It was an honor and privilege to have Nico Novick (pictured) on the show today. Listen in as she explains the mission of the Acme Theatre, its upcoming production (The Curious Incident) and a few of her favorite songs. The Acme Theatre Co. is a youth-led theater group run for and by young people in 9th to 12th grade,  based in Davis. It says its mission is to present plays of excellent literary and artistic quality, while providing opportunities for young people to learn acting, technical theater, and leadership skills through peer and adult mentorship, in an environment of mutual trust, respect, and responsibility.

Listening Lyrics had a great conversation with Rick Meagher (pictured)! The blend of traditional Irish sounds and personal expression that he brings to his music with One Eyed Reilly is special. It's always exciting to hear from someone so passionate about their craft, especially in a genre as rich and storied as Irish music. Rick shared some insights into the band's approach to Irish folk in his original compositions. One Eyed Reilly blends well-crafted original songs with modern Celtic rock, Americana, and wildly energetic, occasionally over-caffeinated versions of traditional Irish classics but even more so the original songs this band generates. Live performances are a whirlwind of Irish-themed originals, with a cheeky sprinkle of covers by Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys, and even the odd bit of Bob Dylan or the Grateful Dead—because why not throw some rootsy rock in with your pint of Guinness? It's like an Irish pub jam session with a rock 'n' roll attitude—just with more fiddles and less actual eye-patches than you'd expect!

Didar Singh Khalsa showcases an imaginative flair in his songwriting. Khalsa, a talent from the Davis and Woodland areas who specializes in alternative folk rock, graced us with his presence in the studio today alongside Mike Kahn and Jeff Brook. His music and performance often offer a perspective on the world that highlights the nonsensical or provides profound insight into the human experience.

Mariam Diakite and Erich Huffaker of Orchestra Gold joined us in the studio (photo by Jeff Shaw) this week, treating us to a live song and some insights into their music. The word "fusion" is not used in the sound of this amazing Bay Area band. But psychedelic, rock, brass and masterful guitar work does make a wonderful fusion with Malian music.  From its website: "Orchestra Gold's vibrant sound is spearheaded by the dynamic Mariam Diakite, whose raw, hypnotic vocals deliver heartfelt and thought-provoking lyrics in the highly symbolic Bambara language. While paying homage to Malian musical traditions, this fierce new sound thrives with heavy swinging rhythms, a funky fresh brass section, and cosmic guitar licks. With the January 2023 release of their third album, Medicine, this profoundly spiritual and dance-inducing ensemble continues their pursuit of spreading healing and community through the universal gift of music." Mariam also has dance moves. If you're into dancing, check it out.

Billy Larkin and Eric Jordan join in today for a lively discussion, including AI in Music, Fobfest, KDRT's 20th anniversary, Pete Rose, Cissy Houston, Yolo's 4th Annual Mid-Winter Cabaret July 8th in Winters (an extraordinary evening of pure enchantment, fantastic talent, community, and the joy of giving.)

NOTE: Between minute 13:10 and 15:30 in this broadcast we had some technical difficulties Billy Larkin joined me in the studio this week to talk about the power of music. He chose these songs to talk about, and we played snippets from most: 'Imagine'  (John Lennon)  Possibly one of the most important songs ever written. Full stop. 'Adagio for Strings'  (Samuel Barber)  Humanity's guidebook to empathy. Beethoven's 7th Symphony [2nd movement]  See above and add hope and perseverance. 'That's the Way of the World'  (Earth, Wind & Fire)  When I realized I was happy to be alive. 'Music for 18 Musicians'  (Steve Reich)  Wonder at the possibility of creation.  'Blackbird'  (Lennon/McCartney)  Love=Beauty=Sadness=Joy=Art Billy Larkin is an award-winning pianist/composer who has been bringing his individual brand of musical artistry to audiences for over 40 years. He is a composer and arranger who defies easy categorization and helps define true expression through the collaborative process.  "Music gives the soul to the universe" -- Plato "Music is the food of love", play on"  -- William Shakespeare

  ................LISTEN UP...................   Listen Up! It's the KDRT volunteer newsletter that is produced monthly. In it is always a wonderful list of music selections. Below is this month's list of albums: I have selected one song from each. Enjoy the show. The goal is to broaden our ears to what's out there regardless of genre. New releases keep our air sound fresh and engaging! A little sumpin' for everyone… The BellRays – Heavy Steady Go – LA heavy rock with steady soul vocals – going strong since 1990 The Bug Club – On the Intricate Inner Workings of the System – fun, cute poppy punk from Wales Colin Stetson – The Love It Took to Leave You – mesmerizing saxophone magic David Oistrakh – The Violin Master – mid-century classical mastery from back in the USSR Fake Fruit – Mucho Mistrust – rocking post-punk from Oakland Gillian Welch & David Rawlings – Woodland – smoother but no-less-lovely-than-expected folk King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard – Flight b741 – this time, it's '70s-ish blues rock, “woos” and all MJ Lenderman – Manning Fireworks – gloriously twangy, lyric-focused folk-rock Nancy Sinatra – Nancy in London – the definitive reissue, “Summer Wine” and all Nick Lowe & Los Straightjackets – Indoor Safari – Nick's pop + mucho reverb – and, oh, the cover! Osees (Thee Oh Sees) – SORCS 80 – this time, it's proggy, synthy garage rock – and is that a sax? Peggy Lee – From the Vaults – a series of Capitol classics from the queen of popular standards Robyn Hitchcock – 1967: Vacations in the Past – groovy covers from the titular year (+ one original) Tami Neilson – Neilson Sings Nelson – Tami near-channels Patsy to take on the one and only Willie Ty Segal – Love Rudiments – it's pretty much modern-jazz percussion – yes, you read that right

Ryan Williams, Chris O'Keefe and Dani Judith are three members of Rainbow City Park. Their love of music and exuberance of life shines in their musical output. It truly was a pleasure to get to know them. Here's the band's story from its website: "Rainbow City Park is an indie alt-rock/dream pop band from Northern California. The band draws inspiration from 90's alt-rock acts such as Third Eye Blind and The Smashing Pumpkins, infusing their music with a modern twist akin to the sounds of Boygenius and Snail Mail. Band members reside in both San Francisco and the Central Valley, converging in Sacramento for rehearsals. "Sonically, Rainbow City Park takes you on a journey through various soundscapes, from dance-inducing rhythmic sections to heavy breakdowns, to ethereal interludes where shimmering guitars blend seamlessly with the vocals. The lyrical content often delves into existential and melancholic themes, offering a stark contrast to the buoyant musical atmosphere. This juxtaposition finds its resonance with artists they admire, such as Phoebe Bridgers, Frightened Rabbit, and Pinegrove. "Fronting the band is the charismatic Dani Judith, a multi-talented artist who wears the hats of an audio engineer and music teacher when she's not playing with Rainbow City Park. The trio of guitarists, including Dani herself, Nick Nassab, and Chris O'Keefe, weaves intricate melodies that intertwine with Dani's vocals. Their signature indie-rock sound is heavily influenced by their love of Fender guitars and an array of pedals that shape their tone. The rhythm section provides the backbone of the band, with accomplished musicians Dwight Struthers on bass and Ryan Williams on drums.  "As a five-piece with Dani as lead vocalist, the band released three songs in 2023: double single 'Broken Record / Dad Jeans' in May and 'Convince You' in October." In February 2024, Rainbow City Park began supporting the release of its next single, “Valentine's Day 1999,” with a series of shows throughout California.

This week Casey Groat and James Murphy spend some time free-form bantering with me, creating one sweet hour of radio. Inner Nature (FKA Fashionista Boyfriend) is the work of Casey Groat from Sacramento. Having started as just a kid with an interest in making noises with the computer, the project has matured into themes such as love and loss, as well as experimenting with sampling and songs with meaning and purpose. Artists such as Washed Out, Toro Y Moi, Small Black and Neon Indian are a big influence on the sound. The live act is a three-piece featuring Casey, James Murphy (Ancient Astronaut, Saint Solitaire, Ihabial) and Austin Mooney. This show is streamed at KDRT.ORG and available on most podcast apps under Listening Lyrics.

Nat Lefkoff is 29 and has a cat named Sweetie who is just the best. Nat likes going on long walks and listening to books about history. He also likes bugs, birds, and especially roller blading. The Central Valley that dominates the interior of California is his home. Big open skies and fields with swampy spots and woods scattered throughout. Family and friends are super important, but so is the music he makes. In his own words, "I'm so grateful to be able to call this my life. Best job I ever had. I'm a happy person but I get real down sometimes and these songs are the product of that. The pearls of my pain, the rainbows of my rain, the Ernie to my Bert, the worm in my dirt."   Natt will appear for his latest album release event at the Davis Odd Fellows on Sept. 14, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. Check out ticket availability here This show is streamed at KDRT.ORG and available on most podcast apps under Listening Lyrics. Weekly Playlist These are selected songs from Listening Lyrics, songs talked about but not necessarily played. Enjoy. Updated weekly.

After the Deluge is a music podcast about songwriting, albums, and whatnot hosted by Justin Cox, a KDRT friend. I replay most of this podcast in this week's Listening Lyrics. Seasons about Bright Eyes, Jackson Browne, and Against Me! are in this feed, plus other interviews. We talk about my failed attempt to interview poets in the “late 1900s,” open mic nights, recording live and not overthinking it, interviewing locals > interviewing pros, KDRT, Rita Hosking, don't be lame just make stuff, biking across Holland, Jackson Browne (ding ding), The Lovin' Spoonful, Bright Eyes' “We are Nowhere and it's Now,” Paul Simon's “Graceland,” Pieter reads a poem, Phil Ochs, Bob Dylan's “Tempest,” Herb Alpert, The Avett Brothers, and: what was the best five-year stretch of your life?  

This week Listening Lyrics shares music from host Pieter Pastoor's Shazam list with music he has never heard before, music he had forgotten, or songs he just loves. The musicians include Rita Hosking, The Pogues, Patti Smith, The J.B.'s, Billy Swan, Smog, Nat Lefkoff, Mohama Saz, The Gold Souls, and Tracy Bonham.

This week Listening Lyrics shares the music from his Shazam list. This includes music that I have never heard before, music I had forgotten or songs I just love. Including Rita Hosking, The Pogues, Patti Smith, The J.B.'s, Billy Swan, Smog, Nat Lefkoff, Mohama Saz, The Gold Souls, Tracy Bonham.

Rumi Shimada is a perfect description of a singer-songwriter. He plays his songs primarily on a guitar and keyboard, with a vocal delivery that creates a perfect package of an up-and-coming musician. He can focus on his craft and block out both the outside world and internal distractions -- a skill apparent today in today's broadcast, when technical difficulties didn't alter his delivery. Rumi's enthusiam for creating music, for helping and promoting others in their musical journey, and for life in general, is contagious.

As a full-time musician, producer Rowan McGuire offers very observant comments about music and the business of music on today's Listening Lyrics. He also sings three new songs live in the studio. From his website: "McGuire is a multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter whose music deals predominantly with his experiences living in Northern California. Throughout his music, he paves his own road— a road full of grit and innovation. His songs orbit themes of love, loss, acceptance, loneliness, and transition. Every word conveys depth, resonance, and relatability, securing his songs a spot in each individual listener's complex life."

Paul Smaldino is the lead singer of The Small Dinosaurs, a strange band dedicated to singing songs about the little things that matter. Their first album, Household Songs, is entirely about household chores, and is available everywhere on the internet. Their second album, Dad Songs, is due out in 2023.  Listen in, get to know Paul, and learn a bit about little things that matter.

We celebrate Bob on 7-11. Listen to this old episode now online, or via the broadcast at 3 p.m. today. Tune in at 7 p.m. tonight on July 11, 2024 to hear a special live recording of the song 7-11, and again at 9 p.m. for more tribute. You can also watch Bob perform with his full band, starting at 46 minutes in, here: https://dctv.davismedia.org/content/nexus-stage-live-chickeebob-05-04-13 Read Autumn's blog post for more.