How to Write a Music Book That Honors the Past

On this episode, Marc talks with Bill Perrine, author of “Alien Territory: Radical, Experimental, & Irrelevant Music in 1970s San Diego,” published in May of 2023. It’s a fascinating look at so much varied experimental music, much of it centered around the University of California at San Diego, whose archives Bill was able to comb through for unheard gems. Bill highlights familiar figures such as Harry Partch, Pauline Oliveros, and Diamanda Galas, but also lesser known characters like Jim French, Warren Burt, Arthur Frick, and tons more.

In his introduction, Bill writes, “I take it as a given that the music is not, and should not be, the sole providence of academics, specialists, or art snobs. It is made by professors at universities as well as punks in trailer parks.”

We hope you enjoy Marc's conversation with Bill!