Critical Listening

Damon Krukowski, a musician known for his bands Galaxie 500 and Damon & Naomi, discusses his book, Why Sound Matters. He explores why sound's materiality relates to labor issues in music and outlines the impact of noise pollution and AI-generated clutter. Damon contrasts musician perspectives on field recording with sound art and shares insights on how community-building among musicians has eroded in the digital age. His call to action emphasizes recognizing musicians as laborers, advocating for fair compensation in streaming.

Max and Liz tackle intriguing headlines on how AI is reshaping the music landscape. They explore the ramifications of independent labels partnering with AI companies and question the ethical implications of using artists' catalogs for training models. The duo discusses the potential threats to synchronization licensing, a vital income source for musicians. They also dive into Duolingo’s acquisition of a music education app, debating its effectiveness compared to traditional mentoring. Lastly, local musicians rally against a Live Nation venue, highlighting community activism.

Andy Cush, writer, musician, and co-founder of Hearing Things, discusses the growing trend of artists and labels quitting streaming services. He explores the detrimental effects of streaming on listening habits and the ethical dilemmas artists face. Cush emphasizes the importance of centering musicians' voices in storytelling and shares insights on building DIY infrastructure for music. He also highlights alternatives like Catalytic Sound and offers tips for listeners to reduce streaming dependency for a richer listening experience.

The hosts discuss a bewildering investment in an AI weapons firm and its implications for the music industry. They explore the controversial AI-generated band that’s raising eyebrows over authenticity. The conversation sweeps from a poignant performance at a festival addressing ecological grief to the complex ethics of streaming platforms like Spotify. They also dive into the intertwining of music and politics, celebrating a rapper's inspiration in the New York primary while blending humor with topical commentary.

Joey La Neve Defrancesco, a musician with Downtown Boys and La Neve, and Spencer Peppet from The Ophelias, explore the collective power of musicians in today's gig economy. They detail the Union of Musicians and Allied Workers' initiatives, like the Justice at Spotify campaign and the Living Wage for Musicians Act. The duo discusses effective organizing strategies, the significance of grassroots movements, and the intersection of music and social activism. Their insights reveal how personal connections can drive community engagement and meaningful change.

Joining the hosts is Greg Saunier, the innovative drummer of Deerhoof, a band that has thrived in the music industry for over 30 years. They delve into the political themes of their latest album, discuss resistance against the commodification of art, and explore the challenges of contemporary music-making. Saunier shares insights on the importance of music accessibility, like their unique decision to release sheet music for a song before recording it. The conversation also grapples with the intersection of art, technology, and societal pressure.

Join Liz and Max as they explore the intersection of music, technology, and culture. Discover Liz's journey promoting her book, and Max's evolving identity as a musician and educator. They tackle critical issues in the music industry, examining the impact of technology on artists and the push for alternatives to mainstream streaming. With an emphasis on building a community around critical listening, they invite listeners to engage in meaningful conversations about music's future. Get ready for a thoughtful dive into the world of music criticism!