Thursday, June 17, 2010

The World's Greatest Radio Station

No really.  WWOZ is amazing.  Its the world standard for featuring local content in a place that is the world standard for local content, New Orleans.  I love WBGO for straight ahead jazz.  Its New York's local jazz station.  KCRW is great if you have a range of tastes to cater too, without being too least common denominator.

But I'm just going to say it.  KPOO is the greatest radio station in the world.  It is a beautiful cross section of the pan african diaspora, by folks who know what they're talking about.  Gospel, hip hop, latin jazz, blues, funk, reggae, forgotten R&B of the 80's?  KPOO's got MULTIPLE shows for each of those, and most everything in between.  Don't like what you hear?  Its going to be a new genre in an hour or two.  Judge, Marilyn, JJ on the radio, Bobbie, Harrison, Emmit, Thomas, Noel, Irie, Pam Pam, Dave, Johnny Brooklyn, KK Baby, Francesca, Chata and Damien, you keep on doin' what you're doin'.

Until now, it was hard to play over my airtunes enabled stereos at home and in the studio.  But now you can click on this link to listen to KPOO through iTunes.

What's your favorite radio station?

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Red, Yellow, Orange, Green, Scraper Bikes is on the Scene


Scrapertown from California is a place. on Vimeo.


The latest bike phenomenon isn't about fixed gear hipsters, carbon coveting spandex boys or rail riding street BMXers.  Scraper bikes are on the scene.  Born in East Oakland, scraper bikes are about self expression, community and just plain representing, on a budget.

But my favorite part about scraper bikes is the parade.  There's something inclusive AND competitive about riding around in packs, showing off your scraper bikes.  Its East Oakland's second line.