Monday, Auguust 2, 2021 DJ Junior will be a panelist on @amaniexperience ‘s Twitch U along with @djicyice and @djlilicay Start time is 8 pm est / 5 pm pst.
@Recordbreakin Birthday Raid Train!
50th Anniversary of WKDU!
Welcome to the 50th Anniversary of WKDU!
July 17th, 2021 will mark the 50th anniversary of Drexel University’s free format, non-commercial radio WKDU Philadelphia 91.7 FM. On that day, WKDU began broadcasting at just 10 watts on the FM dial from high atop Van Rensselaer Hall. Throughout its existence, the student-operated radio station has remained a prominent source of diverse programming that seeks to provide a platform to artists and community members that would otherwise be left unheard. Now we broadcast at 800 watts!
The station’s longevity and the continued growth of our community has ultimately depended on the knowledge and experience passed down from one generation of students to the next. For decades, WKDU student staff members have drawn from the experience of their predecessors while incorporating their own visionary take on college radio. To celebrate this landmark milestone of the experience that WKDU has provided us all, we will honor current and past WKDU DJs for our 50th birthday celebration and raise funds for a significant technological infrastructure upgrade that will ensure 50 more years of the WKDU experience.
Important Dates
Saturday, July 10th: Fundraiser kick-off!
Sunday, July 11th: The Black Experience in Music (all day programming)
Monday, July 12th: Zine Reissue Release!
Tuesday, July 13th: Compilation Album Release!
Wednesday, July 14th: Merch Release!
Thursday, July 15th through Saturday, July 17th: On-Air Alumni Marathon
Saturday, July 17th (our actual birthday!): Outdoor Bash @ Drexel Park from 2-8PM
We'll have archival displays of old posters and flyers, blasting WKDU on the speakers, a meet & greet with plenty of past and present WKDU DJs, and more! Open to all past/present WKDU members AND listeners!
SOUND TRAVELER SERIES #33 FT. AS VALET
"Meeting new people, traveling, discovering other cultures, sparking conversations, feeling emotions... music for me is the ultimate way to connect with people and travel the world.
So in those troubled times where you can easily feel stuck in one place, I’m sharing a piece of the soundtrack I’ve had in my ears the last 20 years." - As Valet
Follow As Valet on Instagram at HERE
Electric Egypt - About the Planets
Ras G - OrionToys
Ahwlee - 86
Monomite - Flying Saucers
Quiet Dawn - The Trap
Deborah Jordan - Powerlight
LaNote - Alright
Jewels - Speakin’On it
Extra Medium - Know thy Self (feat Miles Bonny & John Robinson)
Hawk House - Chill Pill
La Tribu du Chef Guida feat Oz - Conscience
Breiss - Méditation
Dusty - Hot Props Vibe
Dakim - Drudgery
Mama Odé - Don’t Preach
Jazz Liberatorz - That’s reality
As Valet - Nimbus Instrumental (Cris Prolific Remix)
Ichiro - Touzai Line
A Cat Called Fritz feat Audessey & Pete Flux - Mind Power
Cris Prolific feat Mr Complex & Pharoahe Monch - Scream Shout
Jazz Liberatorz feat Count Bass D & LaNote - japan edition
Jazz Chronicles feat Rep Life - A Jazz Chronicle
Electric Egypt - Kutagwa
As Valet - Fouyé Tè
Jean Fouillé, Pie Fouillé
Record Breakin' Music Favorite Releases of 2020
2020!!!
What a year it has been. So many ups and downs. Before I get started I want to wish you peace and blessings as I know 2020 was “different” for many of us. For several years now I have put together this list of most of my favorite releases. I say “most” because I always end up leaving a few off. Not on purpose, honestly the release slipped my mind and then I scream “How could I forget about this…or that!” Nevertheless, music is a big part of my life. I listen to a ton of music. Some I bought and others have been sent to me. (Now is probably a good time to say THANK YOU to all the labels and artist that have sent me promos. It is MUCH APPRECIATED but that does not influence if they made the list or not. Good music is good music and there were a TON that were released in 2020.)
Anyway, if you listen to my weekly radio show Eavesdrop Radio [Fridays on 91.7FM from 6-9PM (EST) www.wkdu.org] that I co-host with lil' dave this list isn't really a surprise. Despite the pandemic and restrictions we were still able to do our show remotely and did not miss any shows this year. Speaking of witch we also hit a significant number. Late in 2020 we hit the 500th episode of our Eavesdrop Radio Podcast. It was a great achievement but if you’ve been following our show from the beginning we are closer to over 10 times more than that. Nevertheless, this list is in no particular order but does reflect releases I went back to over and over throughout the year. It's great that so many of these releases came out on vinyl and some even on cassette. I encourage you to click on the artwork to find out more about these projects and support their music.
I wish you all the best for the New Year and look forward to hearing more amazing music in 2021. I know Record Breakin' Music has some tricks up their sleeves. Thank you to the all the artists on this list and the labels for releasing this music that has been our soundtrack for the year and years to come! Be safe.
Byron the Aquarius – Ambrosia
Byron the Aquarius – Ambrosia
We’ve known Byron Blaylock aka Byron the Aquarius for years. Ever since he was first tinkering with synths and samplers. Many releases later, he has come a long way with his production and carved out his own lane in music. Having releases music on various imprints like Alexander Nut’s Eglo, Theo Parrish’s Sound Signature and Mutual Intentions to name a few. His latest album Ambrosia, is released on Axis Records is really special. Ambrosia feels like a modern jam session riding the line between a jazz and electronic music. Which is lovely, considering I know ambrosia as a fruit salad from canned or fresh fruit, miniature marshmallows and coconut. But I digress…an all instrumental project, there are cosmic elements to the project that round out the sound keeping the vibes soulful and fresh for your ears. The musicianship on this release is tight and filled with heavy hitters Lil John Roberts, Rasheeda Ali, Dashill Smith, Chocoat Costa and Sheldon Ferguson. If we were not in a pandemic, I’d love to see them bring this album to life live at a jazz festival or progressive concert venue.
Jarrod Lawson - Be the Change
Jarrod Lawson – Be The Change
The underground is always bubbling and Jarrod Lawson is no exception. The former stonemason and piano tuner is now an international soul sensation and rightfully so. On his second album, “Be the Change” on Dome Records, singer, songwriter, keyboardist and Portland’s own Jarrod Lawson has presented a stunner. This album really highlights Lawson’s talents of embodying soul and jazz vocally and on the keys. He has delivered a strong contribution to contemporary soul with additional support from Los Angel’s trio Moonchild. Accompanying Lawson’s band is Grammy-nominated percussionist Sammy Figueroa, whose playing in a lengthy career has graced albums by artists as diverse as Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins, Quincy Jones, Hall & Oats, Carole King and Chic. For the past two years Lawson and his band have traveled the world hitting key jazz clubs to massive festivals and everything in-between. Check the vibes as Lawson’s trademark layered vocal harmonies along with his keyboard abilities are the true strength of this album.
Dan Kye - Small Moments
Dan Kye - Small Moments
Dan Kye is an alias for multi-instrumentalist, producer and vocalist Jordan Rakei. The New Zealand born artist, now London resident debuts his first full album as Dan Kye “Small Moments”, on Bardley Zero’s Rhythm Section INTL. Being very familiar with Rakei’s previous material and giving it heavy rotation on Eavesdrop Radio, I’ve come to expect a certain level of soul and jazz influences with a touch of electronic vibes. As Dan Kye, I see Mr. Rakei has gone rogue! I’m not sure if it’s due to the 2020 lockdown or the yearning of the club scene but this album has all the elements for dancefloor rotation. A nice blend of house and techno provided by programing and live instrumentation intertwined with vocal teasing are the framework for this album.
Rakei shares, “Rhythm Section INTL was my entry point into dancefloor orientated music, and it was Bradley who asked me whether I could head in that direction so he could play my music out in the clubs. Dan Kye has still got melodies, but the main focus is to keep it high energy.” I think he has done just that. Without the ability to bump this in the club like I’d like, I’ve also found this album a welcome accompaniment on a freeway. Overall, this is a solid set into the dance music scene and there is NOTHING small about this moment.
THANK YOU
Just wanted to say THANK YOU.
I appreciate all the support over the years as well as the friendships and connection across the globe.
Be well.
Junior
Mekbuda – Convincing Delusional
Mekbuda – Convincing Delusional
We learn something new every day. According to the press release, Mekuda, translated from Arabic, is the “lion’s folded paw” it is also a star in the constellation Gemini. For the purpose of this artist with the same name, it is one of Russia’s foremost contemporary jazz group offering their debut album Convincing Delusional on Ubiquity Records. This quartet includes Roman Zyryanoov on drums, Dmitry Rubanov on bass, Alex Petrov on Rhodes and keys, rounded out by Igor Shilov on trumpet. This 6 track album bounces between the lines of electronic, spiritual and modern jazz. Reminiscent of UK’s bolstering jazz scene of late, Mekbuda puts their own solid imprint on a scene that keeps evolving. Well done.
Buscrates - Blasting Off
BusCrates – Blasting Off
Pittsburgh-based Buscrates has been grinding for years. This self-taught musician best known for his keyboard wizardry is no joke. We were first introduced to Buscrates when he was releasing and performing with the hip hop crew East Liberty Quarters. Over time, he has stayed releasing music with labels such as our very own Record Breakin’ Music, Liquid Beat Records, RBMBoots, Omega Supreme, Razor N Tape and many more. “Blasting Off” out on Bastard Jazz is his latest journey into his galaxy of cosmic funk. The self-described “certified synth geek” takes control using his talents to create a cohesive project that combines his love for 80s funk jazz, 90s hip hop. The result is a modern classic with his vision of a synth’s capabilities taking the lead. Buscrates includes some stellar collaborations with Sally Green, Kate Moe Dee, Anda, DJ Epik and Tony Ozier. So strap in and enjoy the ride.
Jneiro Jarel - After A Thousand Years
Jneiro Jarel – After a Thousand Years
Yo! The homie Jneiro Jarel is back! In 2018 he signed a record deal with Far Out Recordings. After putting the final touches on the record back then he suffered an ischemic stroke while living and working in Costa Rica. This obviously put a halt to the release of that record. He has been able to get the care he needs and is on the long road to recovery. In 2020, Far Out Recordings is now releasing that record called After A Thousand Years. We’ve known Jneiro well since he first lived in Philly and NY. His music has always been ahead of its time. This album is in the same tradition. Pulling from the soundscapes of Central and South America Jneiro creates a lush score to an exciting and romantic love affair with the culture and vibes that are warm and vivacious. He usually aliases Dr. Who Dat? and Capital Peoples but collaborations with Bill Summers, Masauko Chipembere, Scott Burton and Cafe, Micröclimate round out this album nicely. It seems like a thousand years, but well worth the wait. Hopefully we can snag a copy on vinyl before they're gone.
Greg Foat - Symphonie Pacifique
Greg Foat - Symphonie Pacifique
During the Covid 19 pandemic the Summer of 2020 has brought some amazing music to the forefront. Once such an album is UK jazz pianist, Greg Foat’s latest “Symphonie Pacifique” on Strut Records. This album has been my soundtrack for the summer and fall as I have navigated these unusual times. I’m a bit biased as I really enjoy most of Foat’s releases but there is something about this one that really stands out. Foat effortlessly bounces between cinematic soundscapes and electronic vibrations, all the while stretching the boundaries of jazz and it’s connection to other genres.
Foat really flexes his composition muscles on this album. “It has been a hallmark of my previous albums to use choral voices and tubular bells to sound more like chordal instruments,” explains Foat. “I used pedal steel for the first time on these tracks.” All are showcased on the atmospheric ‘After The Storm’. “This piece was completely improvised during our last day of studio time,” continues Foat. “The assistant engineer had set up an arpeggio on the synthesizer as a metronome; the harp and guitar created an ostinato, myself and others soloed over it and we later added choir and strings. Eventually, we took the arpeggio off to leave a calm, serene piece of music.” Foat’s attention to detail and taking risk works well for him. Check out this album, you will not be disappointed.
Various Artist – Blue Note Re:Imagined
Various Artist – Blue Note Re:Imagined
Compilations can be just ok or great. Either way they are often convenient in putting together a collection of songs that tell a story. They usually are “best of” collections or songs from a period in time. The legendary jazz label Blue Note Records has opened their vaults in the past to allow artists to remix their catalog. I must say, Blue Note’s latest Re:Imagined is a forward thinking compilation where young British musicians literally reimagine classic Blue Note songs. There has been a jazz explosion in the U.K. in recent years and there seems to be no signs of it slowing down. Maybe it’s something in the water. Nevertheless, all this is great news because the music that these artists have been releasing is really pushing the boundaries in some beautiful and exciting ways. What I truly love about this compilation is it’s not your ordinary remix project. Instead, this eclectic bunch of artist, Alfa Mist, Nubya Garcia, Ezra Collective, Shabaka Hutchings, Blue Lab Beats, Jordan Rakei, Emma Jean Thackay, Poppy Ajudha, Jorja Smith, Yazmin Lacey Jorja Smith, Ezra Collective, Poppy Ajudha, Jordan Rakei, Skinny Pelembe, Alfa Mist, Ishmael Ensemble, Nubya Garcia, Steam Down Featuring Afronaut Zu, Blue Lab Beats, Yazmin Lacey, Fieh, Mr Jukes, Shabaka Hutchings, Melt Yourself Down and Emma-Jean Thackray really put their best foot forward and deliver some wonderful covers. Truly reimagined.
Richard Spaven and Sandunes - Spaven x Sandunes
Richard Spaven and Sandunes - Spaven x Sandunes
As a result, from a coincidental meeting at a festival a beautiful collaboration was born. Mumbai electronic artist Sandunes (Sanaya Ardeshir) and London-based jazz-drummer/percussionist (Richard) Spaven seven track E.P. Spaven & Sandunes on !K7 Records is pure bliss. This release is another fine example of how artist are creating new lanes in the jazz tradition. Touching on elements of electronic and ambient soundscapes complimented by all the right beeps and bops necessary to keep you riding on this cosmic journey. We found ourselves pleasantly lost in this world of hypnotic relaxation yet filled with curiosity around every corner. Stunning.
Butcher Brown - #KingButch
Butcher Brown - #KingButch
Hashtag included, this is Butcher Brown’s eight album and a monster at that for the five-piece band from Richmond, Virginia. Staying true to their hip hop and funk roots, #KingButch does not disappoint for their debut release on the Concord Jazz label. Take a ride on this genre jumping but always funky hip hop driven album. We also have to note that the cover of our favorite Ronnie Laws track is on point. If you are not at least head nodding throughout this album call your doctor immediately!
Adrian Younge Presents Loren Oden – My Heart My Love
Adrian Younge Presents Loren Oden – My Heart My Love
FINALLY, the debut album from falsetto crooner Loren Oden! This is not the first time we have heard from Loren. He has blessed so many releases from the Linear Labs catalogue he could probably have his own compilation of hits. Nevertheless, it’s nice to see Oden step into the spotlight with his silky voice backed by an updated esthetic of warm soul. Loren and the Linear Lab ensemble has really mastered capturing a balance of the soul we loved from our childhood to a slight update for the 21st century. My Heart My Love is a winner in our collection.
Klaus Schønning – Lydglimt
Klaus Schønning – Lydglimt
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Klaus Schønning debut album Lydglimt. At the age of 25 he self-released this masterpiece by riding his bike around Copenhagen peddling this work he poured his heart into. Schønning started making playing music at a young age and was taken by the electronic instruments in particular the electronic organ. For Lydglimt he wanted to showcase Denmark’s natural landscape. He wisely split this album into two categories, Skoven (the Woods) and Stranden (the Shore), each completed with additional field recordings of birds and waves.
This album is visual in so many ways. Painting a surreal painting of a landscape in a captivating way. Although recorded in the late seventies, this recording was before it’s time. The ambient, jazz, electronic brushes Schønning uses are delicate and deliberate. What is unique about this recording is that there are no use of drums machines. Schønning devised a technique of using white noise and his keyboard skills to create a percussion instrument when needed on the album.
Thank you Frederiksberg Records for working with Klaus Schønning on reissuing this recording. Everyone else, grab a copy and enjoy the tranquility.
Cecilia Stalin – I.Am
Cecilia Stalin – I.Am
We’ve first heard about Cecilia Stalin on the classic Koop “Waltz For Koop”. Swedish born and London based jazz vocalist Cecilia delivers with soulful gusto on her latest introspective album I.Am on her Step Like a Giant label. The album’s content is really telling as Stalin really bares her soul on the highs and lows life hits us all with. Nevertheless the theme of strength prevails.
Effortlessly, Stalin dances between jazz, soul and even Brazilian rhythms. Stripping down her sound with a trio featuring pianist Alex Bennett, Tom Mason on electronic bass and Laurie Lowe on drums. Jansen Santana and Michel Limma on percussion, Jay Phelps on trumpet, Richard Beasley on tenor and baritone sax and Solden Bertrand on electric guitar are guest on the album that help round out the vibes. Take a glimpse into Stalin’s journey as she steps like a giant.
Zarah McFarlane – Songs of an Unknown Tongue
Zarah McFarlane – Songs of an Unknown Tongue
Zara McFarlane takes the art of storytelling to a new level. On her fourth studio album Songs of an Unknown Tongue, McFarlane continues the rich tradition of folklore from her Jamaican ancestors. Bringing this artistry to modern times as she weaves elements of jazz and soul into the compositions. Zara’s songwriting paints a vivid picture of rich stories. The command of her vocals compliments the production of South London producers Kwake Bass and Wu-lu. Grab a hold of this album and let McFarlane uplift your spirits.