This episode features Omar Jahwar II, drummer of the EDM meets jam band 2Lot. We discuss the band's formation during a time of personal loss and social change, their unique sound that blends electronic music with improvisational elements, and their mission to inspire and activate change via music. The conversation delves into the challenges of addiction, the importance of community support, and the hard work required to succeed in the music industry as Omar shares personal stories that highlight the power of music as a unifying force and the band's commitment to social advocacy. Omar discusses the freshly released debut album entitled Entropy and upcoming tour plans for the band.

The band's name, '2Lot', symbolizes overcoming life's challenges and the emotional journey conveyed through their music, particularly in the title track 'Entropy'. The connection between jam music and EDM is explored, emphasizing the significance of live performances in creating memorable experiences for audiences. Omar also talks about what resonated musically during his teenage years and the musical influences that shaped his career in conjunction with the profound impact of music on personal empowerment and the importance of authenticity in artistic expression.

Omar, Vic & Skunk also curate a playlist that reflects Omar's personal musical journey as they discuss influential albums and artists, share memorable performances, and delve into the impact of 90s hip-hop and grunge.

In this engaging conversation, Vic and Skunk Manhattan sit down with Kevin Keller, a renowned composer in the ambient and neoclassical music scene. They explore the essence of ambient music, its atmospheric qualities, and how it can transport listeners to new places.

Kevin shares his musical journey, from his early influences in rock and classical music to his experiences in film scoring and contemporary dance. The discussion delves into the role of technology in music production, the importance of live musicians, and Kevin's upcoming projects, including a ballet inspired by his latest album, 'Evensong.'

Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the impact of influential composers and the evolving landscape of music composition. In this engaging conversation, Kevin Keller discusses the profound influence of ambient music, particularly the works of Harold Budd, and how it shapes his own compositions. He delves into the creative process behind his latest album, 'Evensong,' which incorporates ancient melodies from Hildegard of Bingen, and reflects on the evolution of musical modes throughout history. Keller shares his eclectic musical tastes, highlighting modern influences and the impact of music in film, particularly in the context of Hans Zimmer's work on 'Dune.'

The discussion culminates in Keller's insights on creating meaningful music through collaboration and experimentation.

In this episode, Skunk Manhattan and Tim Driscoll welcome ZZ Ward, a talented recording artist known for her unique blend of blues, pop, and hip-hop. They discuss her musical journey, influences, and the recent release of her EP 'Mother,' which marks her return to her blues roots and personal experiences as a mother. ZZ shares insights on balancing her career and family life, her collaborations with notable artists, and her upcoming tour plans. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity in music and the challenges of navigating fame while staying true to oneself.

Playlist: https://tinyurl.com/ykfsckxn