Loose Filter Podcast

We live in a world absolutely saturated with technologically mediated sound. Whether by recording or amplification or transmission and broadcast, for over 150 years now sound has been captured by technology. This episode looks at how, exactly, that happens, in a casual conversation about how sounds--especially musical sounds--are literally produced, how they are turned into signal and information, and how they are turned back into sound.

It's an enlightening look into processes that we all use, depend upon, and enjoy every day.

How does one musical style or idiom become something else? What does it sound like when musical ideas are actively in collaboration within a culture?

In this episode we take a look at American blues music, and how it evolved through the 20th century from folk blues all the way to a seminal new style, funk. The conversation also touches on the emergence and development of recorded music, along with social issues that are part of the story, too.

This episode of the podcast is a repost of our very first episode, from way back in 2005! The site was brand new and composer John Mackey was just about to become one of the most performed composers around. He was kind enough to sit down and talk about his origins as a composer, his creative process, musical enthusiasms, and much more. It's a fun conversation, and a terrific snapshot of a composer on the verge of tremendous professional success.

A lively podcast episode about musical hooks--what they are, why they work--that ranges far and wide. My favorite moment is when Dustin juxtaposes "Sexyback" with Ligeti, to great effect. It's a perfect example of the connections a loose filter helps you make.

A fun discussion of songwriters we love. We talk about specific artists, the craft of songwriting in general, and more. Our choices are eclectic and fun, and you may find something new!

This podcast episode features a discussion about recontextualization in music, which is when original source music is reinvented or reimagined in some fundamental way. Using examples we find especially compelling, we consider a variety of kinds of recontextualization in a wide array of styles.

This podcast episode is a Ramble (a short conversation about an idea) with Stuart and Dave. We talk about the differences between amusement and engagement, engaging with our amusements, and why it all matters. Some cool grooves are featured, too.

Ives and a New American Music by The Loose Filter Podcast

Mason Bates Interview, Pt. 1 by The Loose Filter Podcast

Mason Bates Interview, Pt. 2 by The Loose Filter Podcast