

A Path Unfolding with Jesse Brede
Jesse Brede
A Path Unfolding explores the journey of artists including their trials, triumphs, and lessons along the way. Jesse Brede hosts this deep dive into how to build a creative life. Dive deep with OOAH of The Glitch Mob, Barclay Crenshaw, AU5, Mr. Bill, Balkan Bump, ill.Gates, AHEE, and Cloudchord. ENJOY!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 19, 2024 • 45min
Esseks: Brushstrokes and Basslines
Esseks (Sam Eckstein) and Jesse Brede delve into his journey as a multifaceted artist, his creative process, and the process of his first art show. The discussion also touches on the challenges of the music industry, working with Of The Trees, coming up with the name Memory Palace, working with Deadbeats, the balance between artistry and craftsmanship, and the future of AI in music. With a focus on maintaining joy in the creative process, Esseks shares insights on upcoming projects and the significance of emotional connection in music.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring AI in Music and Artistry
02:57 The Evolution of Essex's Music Career
05:47 Self-Releasing Music: The New Era
09:09 Art Shows and Community Engagement
11:57 Creative Process: Inspiration and Play
14:49 The Role of Technology in Art
18:12 Performing at Iconic Venues
21:05 Navigating the Challenges of the Music Industry
23:57 The Balance of Artistry and Craftsmanship
26:59 The Future of AI in Music
29:56 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Projects and Shows

Oct 8, 2024 • 60min
Zen Selekta: Conquering the Mind-Killer and the Spice of Creativity
In this episode of “A Path Unfolding” Jesse Brede and Nicole Barton, also known as Zen Selekta, explore the journey of artistic expression, the importance of authenticity, and the role of mindfulness in creativity. Nicole shares her early musical influences, the impact of sports on her work ethic, and her spiritual awakening through meditation. They discuss the significance of her stage presence, the challenges faced as a female artist in the electronic music scene, and the personal themes explored in her upcoming EP, 'The Mind Killer.' The conversation emphasizes the importance of connecting with one's authentic self and the power of music to inspire and heal.----Connect with Zen Selekta:Website: https://www.zenselekta.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenselekta Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zenselektaSoundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/zenselekta Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/35U1RcBFdxNezzySMgVVd3 Credits:Host: Jesse Brede - https://www.instagram.com/jesse.bredeVideo Editor - Dream:Freq Entertainment - https://www.instagram.com/dreamfreq_entertainment

Sep 24, 2024 • 1h 19min
Ooah: Reinventing The Glitch Mob Sound
In this episode of *A Path Unfolding*, Jesse Brede interviews Josh (Ooah) from The Glitch Mob, diving deep into his creative journey and evolution. The conversation touches on pivotal moments like Josh's tattoo journey, Justin Boreta's departure from the band, and how the pandemic reshaped their music. Josh opens up about reconnecting with their roots in dance music, inspired by Burning Man and classic rave culture, moving away from the grandiose production they were known for. They also discuss new ventures like the label "All the People," which fosters a sense of community in the underground music scene.
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Josh "Ooah" Mayer is one of the founding members of The Glitch Mob, a prominent electronic music group known for pioneering a unique, bass-heavy sound that blends glitch, dubstep, and electro. Before co-founding The Glitch Mob in 2006, Mayer was already an established DJ and producer in the Los Angeles underground scene, known for his dynamic performances and ability to fuse hip-hop with electronic beats. With The Glitch Mob, he released several critically acclaimed albums, including *Drink the Sea* (2010) and *Love Death Immortality* (2014), which helped solidify their influence in the global electronic music community. Mayer's contributions, both as a solo artist and within The Glitch Mob, have expanded beyond music production, as he is recognized for his role in redefining live electronic performances through innovative technology and immersive visual experiences.
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**Connect with Ooah:**
Website: https://theglitchmob.com/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ooah
Book a tattoo session with Ooah: https://www.joshualawrencetattoo.com/
SoundCloud:
https://soundcloud.com/theglitchmob
Credits:
Host: Jesse Brede - https://www/instagram.com/jesse.brede
Video Editor - Dream:Freq Entertainment - https://www.instagram.com/dreamfreq_entertainment

Aug 27, 2024 • 1h 27min
Ben Cantil: Remixing Reality with Art, Innovation, and Music
In this episode of A Path Unfolding, host Jesse Brede engages in a fascinating conversation with Ben Cantil, one half of the audio-visual duo Zebbler Encanti Experience (ZEE). They delve into Ben's artistic journey, including his education at Berklee College of Music, where he honed his skills in sound design and synthesizer techniques. Ben shares how his time at Berklee shaped his approach to music, ultimately leading him to explore the dance music scene after being inspired by the Burning Man community.
They discuss their creative process, emphasizing the synergy between sound and visuals. Ben describes how he and Zebbler work together, with Ben focusing on music production and Zebbler crafting the visuals, often rallying around innovative concepts that inspire both their audio and visual outputs. This collaborative spirit has led to the creation of memorable projects, including their acclaimed album "Synchorswim," which was particularly meaningful during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, Ben reflects on his involvement with Shpongle, detailing how he was introduced to the project through Zebbler, who created the first Shpongletron, a groundbreaking projection-mapped touring rig. This connection further illustrates their deep ties within the electronic music community and their commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. The episode captures the essence of their journey as artists dedicated to innovation and exploration in music and visual art.
The discussion highlights their unique creative process, emphasizing the collaboration between Ben and Zebbler, where sound and visuals intertwine. Ben explains how their artistic relationship allows them to push boundaries, often rallying around innovative concepts that inspire both their audio and visual outputs.
The conversation also touches on the impact of AI in music production. Ben discusses how AI-generated music has become a significant topic in the industry, referencing various research papers and the contributions of data bots that have gained recognition in hackathons. He notes that many of these creators, often hackers rather than academics, have made substantial strides in the field, showcasing their work on platforms like YouTube.
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Ben Cantil, aka Encanti, is an electronic music producer, software designer, educator, and scholar. Most of his music has been released as Zebbler Encanti Experience (aka "ZEE"), a brand which encompasses both audio/visual in collaboration with visual artist Zebbler. ZEE's signature style of "psy bass" music has been featured on popular EDM labels such as Monstercat, Gravitas, and Wakaan, and with performances spanning the US festival circuit such as Lightning in a Bottle, Infrasound, Wakaan Festival, and Burning Man. As an educator, Cantil helped bring modern electronic music production into the curricula of Berklee College of Music, authoring courses across multiple undergraduate and graduate programs between Valencia and NYC. He now runs his own private school, Encanti Music Academy, while pursuing a PhD at the University of Edinburgh. He also recently won four UK-based grants to fund startup company DataMind Audio, an innovative audio software company specializing in AI-driven tools for music producers and sound designers. With the release of flagship plugin Combobulator and Artist Brain marketplace, which gives artists a 50/50 split on all neural networks sold, DataMind Audio is ushering in a new era in sound design while setting an ethical gold standard for "Farm-to-Table" AI. Encanti will headline this summer at Applecross Festival in Wilseyville, California September 13-16, 2024, an independent first-year music festival organized by artists from Encanti Music Academy.

Aug 13, 2024 • 1h 9min
Axel Thesleff: A Road to a Billion Plays on Bad Karma
In this episode of "A Path Unfolding," we dive deep into the journey of Axel Thesleff, a trailblazer in the electronic music scene hailing from Helsinki, Finland. Axel shares his story of musical exploration, beginning with piano lessons at the age of nine, which laid the foundation for his later ventures into electronic music production. Influenced by genres like progressive rock and alternative rock, Axel's musical palette expanded as he discovered artists like Radiohead, Burial, and Aphex Twin. His transition into electronic music was marked by the arrival of dubstep in Helsinki, which inspired him to incorporate hard-hitting bass sounds into his productions. Axel's innovative approach to music, blending Western and Indian musical traditions, culminated in the creation of his hit track "Bad Karma," which skyrocketed to over a billion plays, thanks to its promotion by Trap Nation.
As Axel's career progressed, he embraced live performance, integrating instruments like the keytar and electronic xylophone to create a dynamic stage presence. Touring with acts like Beats Antique and Clozee, Axel mastered the art of blending live instrumentation with electronic beats, captivating audiences worldwide. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and creativity, as he navigated the evolving landscape of music production technology, from early experiments with Guitar Pro 5 on a family computer to mastering Ableton Live. Axel's journey underscores the importance of adapting to new trends and technologies while staying true to one's artistic vision, making him a compelling figure for electronic music fans eager to explore the intersection of live performance and digital innovation.
In addition to his impressive musical talents, Axel takes full creative control by producing his own videos, showcasing his performances through captivating visuals. Notable works such as "Island Live," "Hangar Live," "Mountain Live," and "Arena Live" highlight his unique style and dedication to delivering an immersive experience for his audience. These videos not only complement his dynamic live shows but also reflect his artistic vision, allowing fans to connect with his music on a deeper level.

6 snips
Jul 31, 2024 • 1h
Mr. Bill: Sobriety and Success
In this engaging discussion, Mr. Bill, a renowned producer, educator, and DJ, shares his journey to sobriety and how it transformed both his life and music career. He talks about evolving his songwriting approach and embracing AI tools in music production. Mr. Bill discusses the excitement of collaboration while navigating the balance between technical skill and audience connection. He also reflects on pivotal moments in his career, tackling personal challenges, and the impact of addiction in the music industry.

Jul 30, 2024 • 55min
Reed Stark: Kendama, Courage, and Killing the Game
Join us for an electrifying episode with Reed Stark, the BMX professional rider and kendama virtuoso who’s redefining the boundaries of fear and creativity. Reed dives into his adrenaline-fueled journey, from his first BMX tricks to mastering the art of kendama, and how these passions have shaped his innovative mindset. Discover how Reed has seamlessly woven kendama into the vibrant tapestry of the EDM including how he taught Boogie T and Subtronic , and his insights on conquering fear and failure.
Reed also opens up about the transformative power of teaching, learning, and his exhilarating transition into DJing and music production. The episode crescendos with the heartwarming tale of his Mardi Gras engagement to his now-fiancé.
Reed also shares his vision and efforts for his new non-profit, the Try Again Foundation. From encounters with luminaries like Paul Stamets and Lee Reynolds at Burning Man and Texas Eclipse to the magic of creating unforgettable moments, Reed’s stories are a testament to the power of passion. He also delves into the significance of superfoods for a healthy lifestyle and the profound impact music has had on his life.
Tune in for a rollercoaster of inspiration, creativity, and fearless living!
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:12 Reed's Journey in BMX and Kendama
04:29 The Impact of BMX and Kendama on Reed's Mindset
06:35 Overcoming Fear and Failure
09:22 The Power of Teaching and Learning from Others
10:23 Introducing Kendama to the EDM World
14:03 Reed's Transition into DJing and Producing Music
15:19 Finding Impact Outside of the Computer
18:21 Reed's Engagement during Mardi Gras
26:54 Creating Epic Moments and Memorable Experiences
30:25 Meeting Influential Figures at Burning Man and Texas Eclipse
34:48 The Power of Individual Hobbies and Activities
39:17 The Try Again Foundation: Bringing Communities Together
45:06 The Influence of Music on Jesse's Life
52:07 Houston Rap and DJing
53:48 The Impact of Music Shows
54:35 Embracing the Process of Learning
Connect with Reed Stark
https://www.instagram.com/youscaredstiff
https://www.youtube.com/@reedstark
https://soundcloud.com/reedstark
https://www.tryagainfoundation.org/
https://www.facebook.com/youscaredstiff
https://Tiktok.com/reedstark

Jul 16, 2024 • 57min
Barclay Crenshaw: The Power of Commitment - Making an Album in 80 Days
Barclay Crenshaw dives into his exciting shift from helming the Dirtybird record label to embarking on his solo journey. He spills the tea on crafting an album in just 80 days, emphasizing the grind of treating music like a full-time hustle. Barclay gets real about the challenges and growth he's faced while pushing his musical limits, and he shares insights on personal discipline, his lively weekly newsletter, and experimenting with new genres in his latest album.
Barclay breaks down the struggle of escaping genre boxes in the music biz and the thrill of creating unique, dynamic sets. He recounts an epic collab with Of The Trees and Strategy, showcasing the magic that happens when creativity flows. Barclay opens up about the rollercoaster of touring and the necessity of being your own biggest hype person. He also chats about launching his new company, Imperial Dust, and developing his innovative plugin, Nasty Channel. Jesse and Barclay discuss the freedom of owning your music and finding the perfect balance between label support and self-releases.
Chapters
00:00 Transitioning from Dirtybird to Solo
04:19 Starting from Scratch: The Challenges of Going Solo
08:32 Connecting with Fans and Utilizing Modern Tools
12:28 The Power of Commitment: Making an Album in 80 Days
19:45 The Importance of Personal Discipline in Music
26:11 Exploring New Territory: Barclay Crenshaw's Musical Exploration
27:59 Breaking Genre Constraints: Creating Diverse and Dynamic Sets
29:43 The Magic of Successful Collaborations
38:20 The Demands and Rewards of Touring
43:29 Being Your Own Biggest Cheerleader: The Importance of Self-Promotion
45:17 Owning Your Music: Freedom and Creative Control
53:50 Finding the Balance: Label Support and Self-Releases
Follow Barclay Crenshaw:
https://barclaycrenshaw.com/
https://imperialdust.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@barclay-crenshaw
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3uWK9g12Kh4IarZX052vJR?autoplay=true
https://soundcloud.com/barclay-crenshaw-33544993
https://www.tiktok.com/@barclaycrenshaw

Jun 18, 2024 • 59min
Maddy O'Neal: Stage Lights and Inner Insights
Welcome to A Path Unfolding with Maddy O'Neal and your host Jesse Brede, where we delve into the captivating chapters of her journey. Join us as Maddy shares poignant narratives, from the heartfelt tribute to her late father at Envision Festival, to the resolute path she forged beyond the confines of the Pretty Lights artist camp. Through her inspiring words, we explore the transformative power of female mentorship that has shaped her artistic odyssey.
Discover the electrifying crescendos of her career as Maddy recounts the exhilarating experiences of gracing renowned stages like Lollapalooza and Coachella. Beyond the spotlight, she unveils the tender symphony of her mental and physical health routines, offering an intimate perspective on maintaining balance and wellness in the whirlwind of a musician's life.
Join us on this sonic expedition, where Maddy O'Neal's melodic tales harmonize with her unyielding spirit, painting a vibrant mosaic of perseverance, empowerment, and the ever-evolving cadence of self-discovery.
Maddy O’Neal - “Woofer feat. Clever Thoughts” - out 7/25
Listen Now: https://ingrv.es/woofer-n2n-1
Maddy O’Neal tour dates
8/17/23: Secret Dreams Music & Arts Festival 2023 - Thornville, OH
8/19/23: Liquid - Madison, WI
9/2/23: North Coast Music Festival - Bridgeview, IL
9/7/23: Rifflandia 2023 - Victoria, Canada
9/8/23 - 9/10/12: Sacred Acre 2023 - Ninilchik, AK
9/22/23: Cascade Equinox Festival 2023 - Redmond, OR
9/24/23: Ursa Major Festival - Flagstaff, AZ
9/28/23 - 10/1/23: Same Same But DIfferent Festival - Lake Perris, CA
10/6/23 - 10/8/23: Evolutions 2023 - Pattersonville, NY
Follow Maddy O'Neal
https://maddyoneal.com/
https://soundcloud.com/maddy-oneal
https://www.instagram.com/maddy_oneal/
https://open.spotify.com/artist/2G4VZIbfdmr60dYUB0oIxF
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_HsSsRYre87Wq7SKjPwyVA

Jun 3, 2024 • 1h 36min
Au5: Balancing Belief and Innovation in the Creative Process
Au5 (Austin Collins) and Jesse Brede jump right into it as they discuss a philosophical approach to life, the creative process and personal growth. While touching on the influence of AI on the music industry, they explore the value of human creativity and the potential for artistic evolution in the face of technological advancements. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, including the impact of AI on music creation, the resurgence of analog devices, the value of vinyl, the experience of releasing an album and going on tour, and the emotional and energetic toll of being a sensitive artist in the music industry.
Takeaways
• Beliefs about oneself dictate the outcome of one's life and the opportunities available.
• The philosophical approach to life involves navigating the balance between the physical and conceptual aspects of existence.
• The creative process is influenced by subconscious beliefs and the importance of awareness and belief in shaping one's life and experience.
• The impact of AI on the music industry raises questions about the value of human creativity and the potential for artistic evolution in the face of technological advancements. AI is revolutionizing music creation, with the use of AI bots and producers to generate music and the potential for AI-generated music to dominate the industry.
• The resurgence of analog devices and vinyl reflects a nostalgia for a time before digital technology, with a renewed appreciation for the tactile and experiential aspects of music.
• Releasing an album and going on tour can be emotionally and energetically draining for sensitive artists, requiring time for recovery and grounding after intense experiences.
• The music industry presents challenges and pressures, including the need for consistent creativity, the impact of overstimulation, and the importance of emotional connection and self-care for artists.
• The conversation highlights the multifaceted nature of the music industry, from technological advancements to the emotional and personal experiences of artists.
Follow Au5:
https://www.au5music.com/
https://soundcloud.com/au5
https://www.instagram.com/au5_official/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCznSBwEKa4xU8HmbEXCv6Yw
https://open.spotify.com/artist/40WIa01eubnEVkxUHeDZyF?autoplay=true
https://twitter.com/Au5music


