Matana Roberts has released two albums recently: Live In London (Central Control, 2011) and Coin Coin Chapter One: Gens De Couleurs Libre (Constellation, 2011). In this interview, Roberts talks about her Chicago roots and the mentorship of Fred Anderson; how she combined her musical practice with her passion for genealogy; and why working on your sound means being willing to take the slow road. Learn more at matanaroberts.com.

Tracks used in this episode: (from Coin Coin Chapter One: Gens De Couleur Libres) Rise; Pov Piti; Song For Eulalie; Kersaia; Libation for Mr. Brown – Bid Em In; (from Live In London) My Sister; Exchange.