Monday, September 3, 2012

Podcast 40 - Women of KCRW


Well, the move is complete.  I am now officially back in California.  And, I have a slightly more pop oriented mix for you today.  Things are still pretty hectic but the cable guy finally came and hooked up the internet so it's time to get my latest podcast up.  This is the last podcast recorded in the Austin 38th St. garage studio and man was it hot.  Instead of an Austin retrospective theme I decided to instead look forward.  Not really forward in time but in that I'm looking forward to being around public radio that actually plays awesome music.  I had been putting together a podcast of tracks I really like by women which, I hadn't really been able to fit in to previous mixes, when I realized that almost every one of them I had discovered listening to KCRW.  Enjoy and be sure to check the Facebook page for more frequent updates on my musical discoveries.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron




Tracklist



Instructions for how to get the podcast



1. To get new episodes
- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast websitehttp://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode if it's episode 35 or earlier just click the name, Podcast xx - ......  For subsequent podcasts, use the "Direct Download Link".
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

Tuesday, July 31, 2012

Podcast 39 - BassDrive Addict (Studio Mix)


I've got something really special in store for you today, my first fully mixed podcast.  What does that mean?  It means I've cut spliced and beat matched 20 tracks together to sound like it is just one long track.  This is all done ahead of time so it's a studio mix rather than a live mix; however, the voice over is recorded live and uncut.  I do get pretty excited during the mix and there may be a couple bits I might have like to cut but I left it untouched.  Honest expression.  

Okay, so it's all mixed but what kind of music is it?  I think I've been living a bit of lie and I need to come clean.  I try and present a wide array of musical genres, in turn suggesting that is what I am listening to.  It's not true, at least not at the moment. Currently, I am completely addicted to dnb.  When I'm not listening to Bassdrive.com, I'm jamming the Hospital, Scribbler, or any number of other awesome dnb podcasts.  And if not one of those, well I've bought too many dnb albums so...  I still have lots of other music to share with you in upcoming epsisodes but for the moment, my brain runs at 174 bpm. 

Now for those of you that really like my mixing job you're gonna ask, if you made such an awesome mix, why the hell do you talk all over it?  Because I always talk all over it!  That's what makes this podcast cool.  Of course I understand that the mix can best be enjoyed without me butting in all the time and I really want to give it to you but I've struggled (as I always do) with how to provide the music to you but also make sure the artists get their due because without them making the music there is no podcast.  So here's my idea.  You go out and spend at least $5 on dnb music or merch then post some proof on the FB page http://www.facebook.com/activelistener or shoot me an email at activelistenerpodcast@gmail.com and I'll hook you up with the download like of the podcast sans commentary.  Deal?  Be honest, even if you wanted to you probably will never have a chance to see any of these guys live so the only way to support them is to buy the music so buy the music.  I've made it easy by including links to where to buy the tunes.  Note I have made an effort where available to link directly to the record label page to cut out the middle man.  Otherwise, I use Beatport because they give you 320kbps MP3s.  Enough talking, let's get to the tunes.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron




Tracklist



Instructions for how to get the podcast



1. To get new episodes
- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast websitehttp://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode if it's episode 35 or earlier just click the name, Podcast xx - ......  For subsequent podcasts, use the "Direct Download Link".
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Podcast 38 - Folky


I've got something a little more on the acoustic side today.  Not that it's all acoustic but it's at least all music that can be fully played live.  I was inspired by the second track, "Sticks and Stones" to make this mix.  It's hard to say exactly what genre this fits into so instead of being a specific genre this is more a collection of songs that I would expect fans of the Joe Henry track would like.  I'm especially excited to get "Midnight Radio" on a podcast, truly one of my favorite songs of all time.  Enjoy the mix and come check out what I'm listening to a more day to day basis and share what you're enjoying by coming to the Facebook page.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists, 

Aaron




Tracklist



Instructions for how to get the podcast



1. To get new episodes
- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast websitehttp://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode if it's episode 35 or earlier just click the name, Podcast xx - ......  For subsequent podcasts, use the "Direct Download Link".
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Podcast 37 - Future Garage / Post Dubstep


Today we venture even further off the beaten path than usual.  We've got a few unreleased tracks, a bootleg remix, and even a track that's only available on vinyl.  It's all part of this sound that I'm really digging but not sure exactly how to describe.  I'm thinking the podcast title kind of captures it though.  Some of it is danceable.  Some is contemplative headphone music.  All of it is great.  Just another entry in my never ending quest to expose people to the wide world of electronica outside of trance anthems (not that I don't still get down to some of those too).

Note that a few of the tracks on this podcast are free so if you wanna download them, just follow the included links.  Be sure to check head over to Facebook and Like the Active Listener Podcast page and join the conversation.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists.  (To help you out with that, links to buy the albums are provided in the tracklist and pop up with each track as it plays in the podcast)


Aaron

Podcast 37 Direct Download Link


Tracklist
1. Dangerous (Slugabed Remax) by Busta Rhymes
2. Joy by Zed Bias on Zed Bias


Instructions for how to get the podcast



1. To get new episodes
- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast websitehttp://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode if it's episode 35 or earlier just click the name, Podcast xx - ......  For subsequent podcasts, use the "Direct Download Link".
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

Monday, May 7, 2012

Podcast 36 - Fluid Flows


This podcast is sick!  I'm enthusiatic about all the podcasts I make but this is one of those ones you can really jam.  If you're a fan of beats and rhymes this is for you.  I do kinda feel like I need to apologize for all my talking but I had a lot to say.  And of course if you're a long time listener you already appreciate that providing a little context always makes it better.  You can also always just buy the music.  I should point out however that this time we do have a free download of the Kendrick Lamar track so be sure to hit that up.

If you haven't done so already, you gotta check out the new Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/activelistener.  You can check out what I've been jamming lately or even better, post what you've been rocking.  Get involved and join the conversation.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists.  (To help you out with that, links to buy the albums are provided in the tracklist and pop up with each track as it plays in the podcast)


Tracklist


Instructions for how to get the podcast



1. To get new episodes
- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast websitehttp://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download


Thursday, April 5, 2012

Podcast 35 - Snap Crackle Jazz

Okay, by the end of this podcast you may get a bit tired of me saying how much I loved seeing Roy Haynes live last week but since you haven't listened to it yet, let me tell you, I really really loved the show.  And it wasn't just him.  All the other member in the quartet were probably 50 years younger than Roy but they were all amazing.  The bassist in particular gets my praise because I'm not sure if I've ever been able to follow the melody throughout a solo as well I did during his.  Perhaps that is a function of my ear as much as his playing but regardless it really spoke to me.

While the mix is bookended by tracks from "Out of the Afternoon", most of the rest of the songs are far more recent works.  This collection began as a growth from the mellow jazz podcast I put out a little while ago.  As I struggled to find mellower tunes I found a whole treasure trove of hot ones and I just needed to get them out.

On the more technical side of things, we have a few more upgrades to the podcast.  I have continued  to include the ability to switch tracks like in the SXSW mixes but now I have also added the album art as well as direct links to buy the music.  Bandcamp or the artists' website is the first choice for online outlet but if those aren't available it's either Amazon, Beatport or Juno.  (To switch through track while in Itunes open the album artwork viewer and click the icon that looks like a bulleted list.)

And last but not least, if you haven't check out the new Active Listener Facebook page now's the time.  http://www.facebook.com/ActiveListener  Go post a link to your favorite song of the day or some artist you think we've all missed.  That's what I'm doing and I wan't yall's input too!

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists (note the tracklist is all links to buy the music),

Aaron


Tracklist




New instructions for how to get the podcast!!

1. To get new episodes
- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast websitehttp://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

Sunday, March 11, 2012

SXSW 2012 Edition (1/9): All Over The Map

Here it is!  The third annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Edition of the Active Listener Podcast.  Like previous years, I have listened to every band that had a sample up on SXSW.com, around 1,100 bands.  That is way too many songs to really get to know any of the bands well but what it can provide is a first impression.  So with that in mind I have organized the 100 best first impressions I got into 9 genre specific mixes for your previewing pleasure.  There are a couple new technical features to note this year.  First, each podcast has individually labeled tracks for each song so you can skip around and repeat to your heart's content.  Second, we've got a new way for you to contribute and join the conversation, the new Active Listener Podcast Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ActiveListener.  I'll be posting music recommendations and finds as they come to me so you do the same!  Alright, enough with the introductions, on with the music.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron


SXSW 2012 Edition (1/9): All Over The Map
Bands come from all over the world to play for four days in Austin, TX for SXSW so I thought it appropriate to start with the mix of styles from around the globe.  I say around the globe but we're really talking mostly latin infused tracks with some Ghanaian hip hop and Nigerian afro-funk thrown in for good measure.  Let's get the party started.

Tracklist
1. Thank God We're Not a Nigerians by Fokn Bois
2. Ta Lista by Los Rakas
3. Dona Sandra (ft. Zuzuka Ponderosa) by Orquestra
4. Cumbion Del Sur (ft. Itagui) by Mr. Pauer
5. Zapata se Queda by Lila Downs
6. Patacore by Grupo Ancestros
7. A Le Le by Suenalo Sound Sytem
8. POW! Fire by M.A.K.U. SoundSystem
9. Rise by Seun Kuti & Egypt 80
10. Live It Up by Tonguna
11. Salgo by Sudakaya
12. Chikende by Rattletree Marimba
13. Que No Pare La Fiesta by Rumbankete



New instructions for how to get the podcast!!

1. To get new episodes

- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast website http://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

SXSW 2012 Edition (2/9): Indie Rock with Soul

Here it is!  The third annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Edition of the Active Listener Podcast.  Like previous years, I have listened to every band that had a sample up on SXSW.com, around 1,100 bands.  That is way too many songs to really get to know any of the bands well but what it can provide is a first impression.  So with that in mind I have organized the 100 best first impressions I got into 9 genre specific mixes for your previewing pleasure.  There are a couple new technical features to note this year.  First, each podcast has individually labeled tracks for each song so you can skip around and repeat to your heart's content.  Second, we've got a new way for you to contribute and join the conversation, the new Active Listener Podcast Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ActiveListener.  I'll be posting music recommendations and finds as they come to me so you do the same!  Alright, enough with the introductions, on with the music.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron


SXSW 2012 Edition (2/9): Indie Rock with Soul
At least half of all the music played at SXSW will fall into the catagory of indie rock so how do you know which bands are gonna be good?  Well, I did the work for you.  These are the stand out tracks I found but before we get into those, I really think you need a little soul too so we're gonna start with a local favorite Austin's best funk and soul group, Roxy Roca.

Tracklist
1. Cornbread by Roxy Roca
2. Shadows of the City by Marcus Foster
3. Equestrian by U.S. Royalty
4. Mexico (live) by Jonquil
5. It's Time by Imagine Dragons
6. Dinosaur by Lovedrug
7. Brother by Matt Corby
8. Curfews by Snowmine
9. Twisted Soul by Pint Shot Riot
10. Do It Now Remember It Later by Sleeping with Sirens
11. Any Other Heart by Go Radio





New instructions for how to get the podcast!!

1. To get new episodes

- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast website http://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

SXSW 2012 Edition (3/9): Electro Rock

Here it is!  The third annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Edition of the Active Listener Podcast.  Like previous years, I have listened to every band that had a sample up on SXSW.com, around 1,100 bands.  That is way too many songs to really get to know any of the bands well but what it can provide is a first impression.  So with that in mind I have organized the 100 best first impressions I got into 9 genre specific mixes for your previewing pleasure.  There are a couple new technical features to note this year.  First, each podcast has individually labeled tracks for each song so you can skip around and repeat to your heart's content.  Second, we've got a new way for you to contribute and join the conversation, the new Active Listener Podcast Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ActiveListener.  I'll be posting music recommendations and finds as they come to me so you do the same!  Alright, enough with the introductions, on with the music.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron


SXSW 2012 Edition (3/9): Electro Rock
A large subgroup of the indie rock scene has this whole elecro influence going.  A lot of it may sound like it's from the early nineties but you know, I finally cool with that.  The retro thing has finally gotten me.  I'm really looking forward to seeing how well they can do this live.

Tracklist
1. Dulce by Mr. Bleat
2. Make Me, Break Me by Vanbot
3. Castles by of Verona
4. The Drummer by Niki & the Dove
5. Carrie by Speak
6. Mary by Sparkadia
7. We Got It Wrong by St. Lucia
8. In Your Body by Ariane Moffatt
9. Polish Girl by Neon Indian
10. Time Bending by Loquat
11. Between the Sheets by Meiko



New instructions for how to get the podcast!!

1. To get new episodes

- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast website http://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

SXSW 2012 Edition (4/9): Downtempo Electronica

Here it is!  The third annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Edition of the Active Listener Podcast.  Like previous years, I have listened to every band that had a sample up on SXSW.com, around 1,100 bands.  That is way too many songs to really get to know any of the bands well but what it can provide is a first impression.  So with that in mind I have organized the 100 best first impressions I got into 9 genre specific mixes for your previewing pleasure.  There are a couple new technical features to note this year.  First, each podcast has individually labeled tracks for each song so you can skip around and repeat to your heart's content.  Second, we've got a new way for you to contribute and join the conversation, the new Active Listener Podcast Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ActiveListener.  I'll be posting music recommendations and finds as they come to me so you do the same!  Alright, enough with the introductions, on with the music.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron


SXSW 2012 Edition (4/9): Downtempo Electronica
If you're a frequent listener, you'll know that electronic music is really where some of my favorite songs fall.  Luckily SXSW has an excellent assortment of electronica.  While this mix is entitled Downtempo don't get that confused with Chillout.  Yeah there are some ambient tunes on here but really think more along the lines of minimal dubstep and garage.  Typically I wouldn't expect to find Chief Boima, or any Dutty Artz artist, on anything considered mellow but this was the track he had for preview.  I'm stoked I'm finally gonna get to check him out live.

Tracklist
1. Talking Drum by Chief Boima
2. Cat Tranquilizers by DLX
3. Sanctuary by MiMOSA
4. Technique by Kastle
5. Farewell to the Former World by Blue Sky Black Death
6. Something by JMSM
7. Australia by Conner Youngblood
8. Shifts by Anenon



New instructions for how to get the podcast!!

1. To get new episodes

- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast website http://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

SXSW 2012 Edition (5/9): Electronic Dance Music

Here it is!  The third annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Edition of the Active Listener Podcast.  Like previous years, I have listened to every band that had a sample up on SXSW.com, around 1,100 bands.  That is way too many songs to really get to know any of the bands well but what it can provide is a first impression.  So with that in mind I have organized the 100 best first impressions I got into 9 genre specific mixes for your previewing pleasure.  There are a couple new technical features to note this year.  First, each podcast has individually labeled tracks for each song so you can skip around and repeat to your heart's content.  Second, we've got a new way for you to contribute and join the conversation, the new Active Listener Podcast Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ActiveListener.  I'll be posting music recommendations and finds as they come to me so you do the same!  Alright, enough with the introductions, on with the music.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron


SXSW 2012 Edition (5/9): Electronic Dance Music
I think the title says it all but just for fun I'll give you a little intro.  We start it off with some D\R\U\G\S to get the mood right with their more mellow, dare I say technoish, sounds.  Next up is a latin themed track that is awesome.  And third, we've got a taste of what I am most excited for, Hospital Records in Austin.  All my drum and bass fans rejoice.  Anyway, then we're into the lighter side of house and by the time we get to Porter Robinson it's a full on electro house dance party.  Enjoy.

Tracklist
1. Love Lust F/M by D/R/U/G/S
2. K Le Pasa by Dj Dus aka El Dusty
3. Cross the Line (ft. Ayah Marar) by Camo & Krooked
4. Church by Jacques Lu Cont
5. Reach for the Stars by Sound Remedy
6. Unison by Porter Robinson
7. Immo by SIRsir
8. Promise Me a Rose Garden by The M Machine
9. What You Gonna Do? by Codes



New instructions for how to get the podcast!!

1. To get new episodes

- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast website http://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download

SXSW 2012 Edition (6/9): Bangers

Here it is!  The third annual South by Southwest (SXSW) Edition of the Active Listener Podcast.  Like previous years, I have listened to every band that had a sample up on SXSW.com, around 1,100 bands.  That is way too many songs to really get to know any of the bands well but what it can provide is a first impression.  So with that in mind I have organized the 100 best first impressions I got into 9 genre specific mixes for your previewing pleasure.  There are a couple new technical features to note this year.  First, each podcast has individually labeled tracks for each song so you can skip around and repeat to your heart's content.  Second, we've got a new way for you to contribute and join the conversation, the new Active Listener Podcast Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/ActiveListener.  I'll be posting music recommendations and finds as they come to me so you do the same!  Alright, enough with the introductions, on with the music.

Thanks for listening and don't forget to support the artists,

Aaron


SXSW 2012 Edition (6/9): Bangers
If you lean more toward the hip hop side of things this selection of electronic music is probably more up your alley.  There's some Pretty Lights type music on here for ya'll.  Of course, the dubstep fans shouldn't feel left out.  There should be enough bass in this mix to please even a Skrillex fan though this stuff is way more musical if you ask me.

Tracklist
1. i!! by Nadastrom
2. Calgarico by Orion x A-Mac
3. She Like That (Dirty Dub Mix) ft. Machine Gun Kelly by Na Palm
4. Uncrushable by Bro Safari6. 
5. Shine by VibeSquaD
6. That's What They Tell Me by Signal Path
7. Forest of Illumination by Break Science
8. Moonbeam Rider by Slugabed
9. Predatory by Pawn



New instructions for how to get the podcast!!

1. To get new episodes

- Open your favorite podcast program (Itunes, Downcast, etc...)
- Search for Active Listener
- Select the first podcast
- Click subscribe

2. To get older episodes (that don't show up in Itunes)
- Head to the podcast website http://activelisteneraaron.blogspot.com
- Use the Blog Archive file tree on the right hand side of the page to locate the episode you want and click the link
- To stream the episode just click the name, Podcast xx - ......
- To download, right click (open apple click on a mac) on the name and from the menu that pops up select “Save link as…”
- Choose location and file name and then download