Ear Expansion Podcast

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in an in-depth conversation with Leila Bencharnia about her artistic journey and deep connection to sound, rooted in her childhood experiences with her father, a prominent Gnawa musician. Leila explores how her early sound experiences were holistic and spiritually significant, contrasting with her later academic study of classical composition. She discusses how acousmatic music and sound system culture eventually guided her to merge traditional Gnawa music's spiritual and communal aspects with modern electronic and recording techniques. The conversation delves into her creative processes, emphasizing field recordings, non-linear time, and matrilineal influences that shape her unique sound installations. Leila addresses the political critiques embedded in her work, particularly concerning the Mediterranean migrant crisis and the deeply personal and communal impact of migration. Through a series of poignant reflections, she ultimately connects her practice to broader themes of human experience, spirituality, and resistance.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages with musicians Chris Williams and Lester St. Louis in a deep conversation about their musical journeys and collaborative projects. Chris Williams, a trumpet player with a flair for electronic music, and Lester St. Louis, a cellist with a passion for expansive soundscapes, recount their formative experiences and the improvisational techniques that define their work. They highlight the significance of their live series 'East River Traverse' and the studio album 'Stark Phenomena,' exploring themes of memory, telepathy, and the limitless potential of acoustic and electronic music. The episode offers a rich exploration of their creative synergy and the emotional depth of their sound artistry.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages with Kamari Carter—a producer, performer, sound designer, and installation artist—in a deep and insightful conversation. They discuss Kamari's early influences from cartoons, video games, and his music education which helped shape his understanding of sound as a medium of storytelling. The discussion then moves to Kamari's work using police dispatch audio in installations like Event Horizon, Patriot Act, and Codes, reflecting on power, governance, and the sonic landscape. Kamari also talks about pieces like 'A Ballad for Black Blood' and 'Landline Lifeline,' which address themes of Black death, memory, and the emotional charge carried by fragmented materials. Kamari’s series, including Vexilary and Room Tone, are explored in terms of their minimalistic but powerful symbolic content, including the American flag reconfigured with musical notations. The episode concludes with Kamari sharing his thoughts on sound memories and the emotional resonance of everyday sounds, alongside his approach to creating art that's both critical and reflective without being overly didactic.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound conversation with multidisciplinary artist Elijah. They discuss Elijah's early sound memories, which are deeply tied to his father’s rhythmic drum playing in rural Kansas that connected him to his heritage. Elijah delves into the concept of softness in his art, relating it to prayer, longing, and desire. The conversation explores how Elijah integrates sound, film, poetry, and visual art to convey deep emotional states and how he uses syntax and titling to enhance multi-sensory experiences. The dialogue further extends to the themes of nature, environment, and their intrinsic connections to personal and spiritual identity. Elijah reflects on his recent return to the place of his birth, near the Wimah River, and how this connection informs his creative process. The episode concludes with Elijah discussing the spiritual technology of sound, memories, and longing, positioning them as tools for deep emotional and spiritual resonance.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a deep conversation with acclaimed drummer Pheeroan akLaff. The discussion begins with Pheeroan's early musical influences growing up in Detroit, a city rich in black sonic imagination and cultural history. Pheeroan reminisces about his early experiences in rhythm, initially shaped by his parents' love for jazz and reinforced through his spiritual involvement in the AME Church. He reflects on foundational moments such as hearing Alice Coltrane perform live and being mentored by artists like Marcus Belgrave and Travis Biggs. The conversation also explores Pheeroan's time in New York's vibrant loft scene of the 1970s, where he collaborated with icons like Rashied Ali, Oliver Lake, and Wadada Leo Smith, developing a unique approach to rhythm and musical expression. Pheeroan further delves into his travels in Africa during the 1980s, meeting influential figures like Fela Kuti and how these experiences deepened his understanding of rhythm as a form of communal and spiritual practice. The episode concludes with Pheeroan discussing his current work, his work with PHP (Serpentine Story), and his continuous quest to blend spirituality with musical innovation.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in an in-depth conversation with renowned musician and ethno-musicologist Luis Perez Ixoneztli. They delve into Luis's early musical formations, his journey through various bands, and his self-taught instrumental skills. Luis recounts his profound personal and artistic exploration into pre-Columbian music and indigenous Mexican instruments, highlighting significant moments like his spiritual epiphany in Chiapas and his sacrificial life dedication to developing his unique musical language. The discussion moves to Luis's experiences using caves and natural environments for their acoustic properties, and his endeavor to record inside these resonant spaces. They also discuss his albums, including 'Ipan In Xiktli Metztli' and 'Santuario De Mariposas,' as well as his efforts to preserve and transmit his knowledge of indigenous instruments through manuals and workshops aimed at younger generations, emphasizing the cultural and spiritual essence imbued in these instruments. The episode closes with Luis reflecting on the importance of sound, environmental acoustics, and his lifelong commitment to musical and cultural heritage.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, LaMont Hamilton is in conversation with electronic musician and expansive composer Qasim Naqvi. Naqvi discusses his early musical influences, particularly his time as a drummer and his exposure to jazz and experimental music. He talks about his work with the acoustic trio Dawn of MIDI and his transition into creating solo sonic practice. The conversation delves into his creative processes and collaborations behind various albums, including 'Fjøløy,' 'Preamble,' 'Teenages,' 'Beta,' 'Two Centuries,' and his upcoming project 'Endling.' Naqvi also reflects on how historical and contemporary global events have influenced his current practice, making his creative work a means of processing and responding to these events. 

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton converses with Geng about his musical journey and influences. Geng PTP delves into his eclectic sonic formation, influenced by electronic music, hip hop, funk, and more from his childhood in New York City. They discuss the impacts of the city's sounds, the cultural significance of hip hop, and how pain and trauma can shape artistic expression. Geng PTP explains his approach to DJing, sampling, and the meditative dimension of looped beats in his work. They explore PTP (Purple Tape Pedigree), emphasizing its role as a collective for creative and political expression, rather than a traditional label. Geng shares insights into his sound collaging process, the importance of slowness in his work, and the deep care and reciprocity that underpin PTP. 

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a deep and introspective conversation with saxophonist Sam Newsome. The dialogue explores Sam's early musical formation, his experience playing post bop tenor saxophone with Terrence Blanchard, and his radical transition to solo performances on the soprano saxophone. Sam recounts his journey of finding his own voice, the challenges faced during his transitional period, and how the soprano saxophone allowed him new avenues of expression and individuality. They delve into the concept of 'instrumentational language,' the philosophical grounding behind Sam's work, and the innovative techniques he developed, including prepared saxophone methods using various materials. Furthermore, the discussion touches on the poetics of breath and the deep interdependence between Sam's breath and the soprano horn's voice, revealing an evolution from jazz orthodoxy to a sound-centered, improvisational language. The episode concludes with personal reflections on sound, resonances, and the profound lesson of staying in the moment during musical performance.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton has a detailed conversation with Leena Conquest about her extensive musical journey. Leena shares her early exposure to sound in Dallas, Texas, her academic background at Stanford and NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, and her dance training at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. She talks about her initial steps into the music world, including her collaborations with various orchestras in Vienna and Zagreb. Leena reflects on her influences from jazz, hip-hop, and dance music, and discusses the improvisational and intuitive nature of her work. The conversation explores her experiences of integrating voice with ensembles, channeling narratives, and the impact of her dance background on her vocal techniques. Leena also opens up about the challenges and joys of holding and conveying powerful narratives through her music, citing examples from her performances with William Parker. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes and a deeper dive into how Leena connects emotionally with the music she performs.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in an in-depth conversation with vocalist and composer Shara Lunon, exploring their artistic journey which began with early musical influences from their grandmother and evolved through studies in ethnomusicology and vocal performance. Shara recounts their experiences moving through diverse musical genres, from vocal training to experimental performances, and discusses the development of their unique vocal and compositional style influenced by Brazilian Tropicália and various mentors at The New School. The conversation also delves into the significance of poetry in her work, the role of voice within an ensemble, and the societal and cultural contexts shaping their pieces '11 by 7' and 'Bitter Fruits.' Shara emphasizes the transformative power of breath, ritual, and community in their creative process, and addresses the emotional and political charge in their performances, particularly in speaking against tokenism and the marginalization of Black and Brown voices in institutional spaces.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound and heartfelt conversation with renowned musician Tisziji Muñoz. They explore the depths of Tisziji's musical journey, touching on topics such as his early influences, the spiritual impact of music, and the concept of 'spirit-taught' artistry. Tisziji shares stories about his family's musical heritage, the pivotal role of drumming in his youth, and his transition to guitar. They discuss the importance of deep communication, the metaphysical aspects of sound and silence, and how music can be a healing force. Tisziji delves into the experiences of playing with legendary musicians like Pharoah Sanders and John Coltrane, emphasizing the transmission of spiritual conditions through music. The conversation also addresses the balance of light and darkness, the role of love and compassion, and the concept of 'inner attainment.' The episode concludes with Tisziji reflecting on his first memory of sound and the essence of heart sounds.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, LaMont Hamilton converses with Jeremy Toussaint Baptiste about his extensive journey and relationship with sound. The discussion delves into Jeremy's collaborative practices, emphasizing the importance of relational dynamics in his work, particularly with movement and performance artists. Jeremy reflects on his interactive and intimate art experiences during the pandemic, such as his 'phone piece,' which facilitated personal conversations through a landline phone. The conversation also explores Jeremy's complex relationship with bass frequencies, the role of no input mixing in his work, and his approach to breaking instruments as a means of sonic and imaginative exploration. Jeremy touches on his performances with the Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD), re-contextualizing its traditionally aggressive use into a space for communal joy and reflection. 

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton is joined by composer and pianist Vijay Iyer. Together, they reflect on music as a relational practice—shaped through presence, exchange, and the enduring trace of those we’ve moved with. Iyer recalls an early memory of shared soundmaking with his sister—an ecstatic moment of vibration and discovery that continues to echo through his relationship to the piano. He speaks about his early studies in physics and cognitive science, not as a foundation for his music, but as a critical lens through which to question Eurocentric assumptions about sound and knowledge. Through conversation, Iyer shares how music—especially in ensemble settings—becomes a site of collective cognition, shaped by listening, response, and shared breath. He reflects on the many scales of time that shape musical experience, and the ways in which attention and sensation are entangled in the act of listening. Toward the close, he reflects on the enduring influence of figures like Thelonious Monk, Amiri Baraka, Roscoe Mitchell, Wadada Leo Smith, and many others—each leaving a trace that still shapes how he listens, creates, and moves forward.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton delves into guitarist Michael Gregory Jackson's rich musical journey and creative philosophy. Jackson discusses his early influences, the transition from his initial desire to be a drummer to embracing the guitar, and key formative experiences from a transformative teacher. The conversation explores the 1970s New York Loft Scene, Jackson's pivotal collaborations with musicians like Oliver Lake, Julius Hemphill, Abdul Wadud among others, and the cultural impact of that era. Jackson reflects on his solo projects, such as 'Electric Gitbox,' created in response to personal grief and societal unrest. The episode highlights the role of dedications in Jackson's work as acts of remembrance and connection. Jackson also shares insights into his conceptual approach to music-making, emphasizing thought, intention, and experimentation. Themes of perseverance, spiritual connection, and the transformative power of sound are intricately woven throughout, offering listeners a masterclass in both technical and philosophical aspects of Jackson's artistry.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a deep conversation with artist Damsel Elysium. They discuss her early experiences with the violin, the challenges she faced as a young black string player in a predominantly middle-class classical world, and her journey towards rediscovering and redefining her relationship with music and sound. Damsel shares her transformative experience with teacher Sarah Daramy-Williams, who introduced her to somatic work and improvisation, helping her reconnect with her instrument in a healing and expressive way. The conversation delves into Damsel's hypersensitivity to sound, the ceremonial quality of her performances, and the concept of sound as a living, transformative energy. She reflects on the influence of her childhood in a musical family, the healing aspect of engaging with nature and her instruments, and the deeper poetics of sound, perception, and ritual. The episode concludes with Damsel discussing her future aspirations and her unique relationship with her instruments, emphasizing their living presence and memory.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in an in-depth conversation with sound artist Dorothy Carlos. The discussion delves into Dorothy's early formations in sound, influenced by her classical cello training and ethnomusicologist first teacher. Dorothy describes the transformative role of improvisation and technology in her practice, emphasizing how digital techniques and electronics allow her to create otherworldly, emotional experiences. They explore her notable works, like 'My Ideal is Windy' and 'Alter, Alter,' which merge personal history with sound experimentation. The conversation touches on the use of ASMR elements, the intimacy of live performances versus recordings, and the ways Dorothy's classical background informs her experimental approach. The episode concludes with a preview of Dorothy's upcoming album, 'EarWorld,' described as a collection of site-specific sound installations.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound conversation with Laraaji, an influential sound artist whose work has spanned over five decades. Laraaji shares experiences from his early musical explorations in a Baptist church basement, his serendipitous encounter with the zither, and his ventures into ambient music. Throughout the dialogue, Laraaji delves into the spiritual dimensions of sound, describing music as a medium for deep cosmic connection and self-communion. He reflects on the transformative power of sound, drawing parallels between his past and present musical expressions. The discussion highlights Laraaji's belief in using sound as a tool for achieving inner equilibrium, navigating life's challenges, and fostering a continuous state of gratitude and peace. Hamilton and Laraaji also touch upon the collaborative essence of musical exploration, emphasizing the shared attunement that transcends space and time, and the significance of practices like meditation and creative contemplation in sustaining spiritual and artistic fulfillment. This conversation is an insightful exploration of the interplay between music, spirituality, and self-awareness.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host Lamont Hamilton converses with artist Vanese Smith, also known as Pursuit Grooves, about her formative years and musical evolution. Vanese discusses her beginnings in the DMV area, moving from emceeing to beat production, and her influences from hip hop, R&B, funk, house, and ambient music. She reflects on the impact of growing up in Maryland, the significance of radio, and the cultural blend in her community. The conversation delves into her artistic journey, from her time at a performing arts school to her experiences as a DJ at Vassar College. They explore her creative process, her use of tools like the SP sampler, and her transition to perceiving sound as a malleable, sculptural element. Vanese provides insight into her tribute albums to her grandparents, the significance of archives, and her album 'Bess,' inspired by pioneering aviator Bessie Coleman. Vanese emphasizes the importance of documenting and sharing the stories of underrepresented figures, blending sonic and emotional resonances to inspire future generations.

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton interviews Jessica Care Moore, discussing her extensive career, influences, and artistic journey. Moore shares insights into her early musical influences from a diverse range of artists, crediting her parents and the cultural environment of Detroit. She delves into her evolution as an artist, blending poetry, music, and performance, with significant mentorship from elder poets such as Sonia Sanchez, Nikki Giovanni, Ntozake Shange, Gil Scott Heron and more. The conversation touches on her founding of Moore Black Press, experiences in Brooklyn’s seminal 90s Black Art scene, and pivotal life events that shaped her work. Moore also speaks passionately about her project 'Black Women Rock,' a festival celebrating Black women's contributions to music. Throughout, Moore reflects on the transformative power of her voice, artistic collaborations, and her refusal to be confined by traditional genres, highlighting her foundational and more recent work such as the opera 'Wild Beauty' and the genre-bending album 'We Are Scorpio.'