Episode Summary
Saxophonist, composer, and theater-maker Idris Ackamoor joins us to talk about Afrofuturism, ensemble storytelling, and why his performances are designed as communal happenings—part ritual, part dance-floor communion. We get into the craft behind his “artistic being” approach, the power of spoken word in jazz contexts, and how rhythm, memory, and movement drive his music.
Idris Ackamoor is a Chicago-born, Bay Area–based bandleader and co-founder of Cultural Odyssey and The Pyramids. A pioneering voice in Afrofuturist jazz, his work blends West African rhythmic foundations with improvisation, theater, and multimedia staging.
How he defines an “artistic being” and turns daily practice into finished compositions
The Pyramids as an ensemble for theater, dance, and groove—music that moves people (literally)
Collaborating with spoken-word icons Danny Glover and Rhodessa Jones and writing for distinctive voices
“The Grandma Cole Story”: turning family memory into melody, rhythm, and testimony
Afrofuturism as compass: studies and travels that shaped his sound and stagecraft
Protest music built for the body and the mind—clarity, groove, and human perspective (“Police Dem”)
Set design like cinema: seamless transitions, projection, and audience participation
Legacy and ownership: why preserving masters and publishing matters to the art
“I call myself an artistic being… sometimes a melody appears on the piano, sometimes on the horn—I follow it until it grows.”
“When you hear me play, I want you to know it’s me and no one else.”
“This is about participation—breaking down the wall—so the audience becomes part of the experience.”
“I get to the meat of it through the human perspective. The groove invites you in; the words ask you to stay awake.”
Host & Producer: Steve Roby — Backstage Bay Area
Guest: Idris Ackamoor
Editing/Mix: Steve Roby
Artist: Idris Ackamoor / The Pyramids – official site, socials, and music streaming
Cultural Odyssey – background on Ackamoor’s performing arts work
Label: Strut Records – catalogue and archives
Photo: Pat Mazzera
Episode summary
Violinist–vocalist Yilian Cañizares joins Backstage Bay Area to talk about the musical DNA that powers her work—classical discipline, Afro-Cuban tradition, and the open-ended spirit of jazz. She reflects on the new single “Ore,” the cross-Atlantic pulse of “Habana-Bahia,” and the next chapters: a fall EP and her full-length album Vitamina Y. Along the way, Yilian opens up about freedom, ritual, collaboration, and how she wants audiences to feel when the trio takes the stage.
Guest
Yilian Cañizares is a Havana-born, Switzerland-based artist known for fusing conservatory-level violin with Afro-diasporic rhythm and improvisation. A Montreux Jazz Festival awardee, she tours internationally with a trio featuring Childo Thomas (bass) and Inor Sotolongo (percussion).
Highlights (no timestamps)
The meaning of “freedom” in her music: composing, improvising, and singing from an honest place.
The backstory of “Ore”: a gift from childhood friend Yasser “El Gozo” that reconnects her to Cuban roots and the diaspora.
Crafting “Habana-Bahia” in Salvador, Brazil: sisterhood, women’s empowerment, and the Cuba–Bahia link through Africa.
Why the trio format (violin/voice, bass, percussion) is the perfect vehicle for spontaneity and audience connection.
Vitamina Y: the “vitamin people” who nourish her life and the album’s goal to uplift listeners.
The rollout plan: “Vamos Florescer!” and more singles leading to the full album release.
What to expect live at SFJAZZ’s Joe Henderson Lab: intimate room, evolving setlists, and early previews of new material.
Music referenced in this episode (with permission)
“Ore” (single)
“Habana-Bahia” (title track from the 2023 project)
“Vamos Florescer!” (from the forthcoming Vitamina Y rollout)
Quotes
“Jazz, for me, is freedom—the freedom to express how I feel in the moment and to share my vision of the world.”
“Every song has to come from a place of honesty, where people can know my heart a little better.”
“We want to deliver something unique every time we play.”
Links
Artist website: yiliancanizares.com
Tickets: SFJAZZ.org → Joe Henderson Lab, Yilian Cañizares (Sept 25–26; 7:00 & 8:30 p.m.)
Backstage Bay Area: BackstageBayArea.com
Credits
Host & producer: Steven Roby
Audio editing & post: Backstage Bay Area
Artwork/Photography: Frank Socha
Hashtags
#YilianCañizares #VitaminaY #BackstageBayArea #AfroCubanJazz #JazzViolin #SFJAZZ #JoeHendersonLab #HabanaBahia #Ore #BayAreaMusic
Call to action
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Show Notes:
On this episode of the Backstage Bay Area Podcast, host Steve Roby sits down with the legendary Paquito D'Rivera—multi-Grammy-winning saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer—for a lively conversation that bridges continents, genres, and generations.
Paquito shares the inspiration behind his acclaimed album, Jazz Meets the Classics, revealing how his father’s classical roots and his own love for improvisation shaped a project that reimagines European and New World composers through a jazz lens. Hear how Chopin’s "Fantasia Impromptu" gets a Cuban and Brazilian twist, and why Bach might just be the original bebopper.
The episode features insights into the creative process, the art of improvisation, and the unique chemistry of Paquito’s quintet—featuring Diego Urcola (trumpet), Oscar Stagnaro (bass), Mark Walker (drums), and Alex Brown (piano). Paquito also previews his upcoming performances at the SFJAZZ Center’s Miner Auditorium, promising two nights of surprises, spontaneity, and musical magic.
Links & Resources:
Don’t miss:
Subscribe, share, and join us backstage for a masterclass in musical fusion!
Photo by: Geandy Pabon
Show Notes:
In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby sits down with acclaimed alto saxophonist Sarah Hanahan. Sarah shares her musical upbringing, the influence of jazz legends, and the story behind her debut album, "Among Giants." The conversation explores her approach to honoring jazz tradition, building stamina as a performer, and the creative process behind her original compositions.
You’ll also hear about Sarah’s upcoming performances at the Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZ, her dynamic quartet, and what audiences can expect from her live shows. The episode features tracks from "Among Giants," including “Resonance” and “Stardust,” and offers a behind-the-scenes look at Sarah’s passion for music and history.
Links Mentioned:
Tickets & info for Sarah Hanahan at SFJAZZ: https://www.sfjazz.org
Learn more about Sarah Hanahan and her music: https://www.sarahhan.com
Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more exclusive interviews and insights from the vibrant music scene!
Episode Summary:
Legendary guitarist and multimedia artist Andy Summers (The Police) joins Steve Roby on Backstage Bay Area to discuss his innovative one-man show, which focuses on live guitar, storytelling, and evocative photography. Andy shares insights into his creative process, the evolution of his performance, and the threads connecting his music, visual art, and writing.
Highlights:
Event Info:
An Evening with Andy Summers
Saturday, September 27th, 7:30 PM
Presidio Theater, San Francisco
Tickets: presidiotheater.org
More info: andysummers.com
Thanks for listening to Backstage Bay Area!
Show Notes:
Welcome to Backstage Bay Area! In this episode, host Steve Roby sits down with Grammy Award-winning pianist, composer, and bandleader Arturo O’Farrill for a deep dive into the intersections of music, activism, and community.
About the Guest:
Arturo O’Farrill is a celebrated figure in the world of Afro-Latin jazz, founder of the nonprofit Lango, and a passionate advocate for social change through music. From his early days with the Carla Bley Band to his leadership of the Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble, Arturo’s career is a testament to curiosity, integrity, and fearless creativity.
In This Episode:
Key Moments:
Don’t Miss:
Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more conversations with the artists shaping the music scene.
Show Notes
Backstage Bay Area welcomes the vibrant Afro-Cuban duo, OKAN—Elizabeth Rodriguez and Magdelys Savigne—for an inspiring discussion about music, identity, and resilience.
In this episode, host Steve Roby dives deep with OKAN as they share:
Their humble start at making music in a Toronto basement and finding their creative voices.
The meaning behind the name "OKAN" and how honoring their roots and heart shapes their sound.
Balancing life as musicians, partners, and parents on the road—including stories of their young son joining them on stage.
Collaborating with Brazilian multi-instrumentalist Munir Hossn on their new single "PomPom" and exploring the unique process of blending Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian influences.
Their songwriting process, the importance of supporting women composers, and how spiritual well-being and self-love fuel their art.
The making of their Juno-winning album "OKAN Tumi," and a sneak peek at their upcoming, more digitally influenced fourth album.
What to expect at their upcoming SF Jazz shows—featuring new music, dance floor energy, and a family affair on stage.
Tune in for exclusive tracks, behind-the-scenes stories, and a celebration of music that unites cultures and generations.
Featured Music:
"Pompom" (with Munir Hossn)
"OKAN Tumi"
“Me Merezco” – Exclusive preview
Upcoming Shows:
Catch OKAN at SF Jazz’s Joe Henderson Lab for four shows over two nights—details and tickets are available at sfjazz.org. For more music and tour dates, visit okanmusica.com.
Listen now for a journey of heart, rhythm, and the power of believing in your own voice.
Show Notes
Backstage Bay Area welcomes Montreal-based, award-winning singer-songwriter Dominique Fils-Aimé. In this episode, Dominique shares her creative journey, the healing power of music, and the inspiration behind her latest works, including her new single "Keep On Shining" and her first live album, Live at the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
Host Steve Roby and Dominique discuss:
Her unique approach to jazz and improvisation
The influence of artists like Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, and Lauryn Hill
The meditative process of songwriting and the importance of freedom in music
The story behind "Keep On Shining" and its collaboration with Jaron Marshall
Insights from recording a live album and the magic of performing for an audience
The meaning behind her album Our Roots Run Deep and its connection to nature and community
What to expect at her upcoming shows at SFJAZZ’s Joe Henderson Lab, including her dynamic band and the improvisational spirit of her performances
Upcoming Shows:
Dominique Fils-Aimé performs at SFJAZZ’s Joe Henderson Lab, September 18th & 19th, with two shows nightly at 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM.
🎟️ Tickets: sfjazz.org
Connect with Dominique:
Official Website: domiofficial.com
Listen to Live at the Montreal International Jazz Festival and "Keep On Shining" on your favorite streaming platforms.
Follow Backstage Bay Area for more conversations with today’s most inspiring artists!
Show Notes
On this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steve Roby chats with Jacob Swedlow, drummer and band leader of Sacramento’s jazz fusion group, LabRats.
Jacob shares the story of how the band formed, their improvisational origins, and how the Sacramento music scene has influenced their sound. The conversation explores the creative process behind tracks like “Jeff Costello Shot a Man” and “Loading Screen,” and discusses how the band combines hip-hop, jazz, and experimental styles.
Jacob also discusses the group’s upcoming performances at the SF Jazz Center’s Joe Henderson Lab, where Lab Rats will pay tribute to Herbie Hancock’s legendary Mwandishi era, blending in their own unique style and improvisational energy. Learn how the intimate setting of the Joe Henderson Lab influences the band’s dynamics, and why every show promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience.
Get Your Tickets:
LabRats perform at the SF Jazz Center, Joe Henderson Lab, on Friday, September 12th, with shows at 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM.
🎟️ Buy Tickets at sfjazz.org
Learn More:
For music, tour dates, and more about LabRats, visit their official website:
🌐 labratsband.com
Don’t forget to subscribe for more artist interviews and behind-the-scenes stories from the Bay Area music scene!
Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Steve Roby welcomes singer Stella Heath for an intimate look at the Billie Holiday Project—a heartfelt tribute to Lady Day’s music and legacy. Ahead of her performances at SF Jazz, Stella shares her journey from a musically rich upbringing in Petaluma, California, to her deep dive into jazz and acting, and how these experiences shape her storytelling on stage.
Key Topics & Highlights:
Show Details:
The Billie Holiday Project with the Stella Heath Sextet comes to SF Jazz’s Joe Henderson Lab:
Connect with Stella Heath:
Website: stellaheathmusic.com
Listen & Subscribe:
Find this episode, past conversations, and show notes (including ticket links) wherever you get your podcasts.
Thanks for listening, and we’ll see you at the show!
Episode Summary
Pianist Eric Lewis (ELEW) joins Backstage Bay Area to trace a path from a five-piano childhood in Camden, New Jersey, to the creation of Rockjazz, a career-shaping stint with {{Elvin Jones}}, and his latest project, ELEW Plays Sting. We explore how he translates songs like “Message in a Bottle” and “Walking on the Moon” for solo piano, why Sting’s writing resonates with him, and what to expect from his upcoming shows at the Joe Henderson Lab at SFJAZZ.
Origin story: a four-generation musical family, conservatory training, and early mentors
Lessons from the bandstand with Elvin Jones, plus touring with jazz greats
Rockjazz: shaping a solo-piano language with rock energy and jazz rigor
Why Sting: the harmonic/melodic DNA of the Police songbook and beyond
Inside the album: “piano portraiture,” left-hand counterpoint, and arranging approaches
Previewing ELEW Plays Sting live at SFJAZZ (dates below)
“I am the fourth generation of classical musicians in my family.”
“After winning the Monk Competition, I was not considered record label material—then Elvin called.”
“It was like father and son with Elvin—absolute nectar.”
“Rockjazz is mostly rock and some jazz. It is about energy—and precision.”
“I think of these as piano portraits—keeping the contour and harmony while changing the canvas.”
“Message in a Bottle” (The Police) — ELEW solo piano arrangement
“Walking on the Moon” (The Police) — with guest alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins on the album
Eric Lewis (ELEW) is a pianist and composer whose career spans touring with {{Wynton Marsalis}} and performing with Elvin Jones to developing Rockjazz, a high-voltage solo-piano approach that bridges rock and jazz. His new project, ELEW Plays Sting, reimagines Sting’s catalog for solo piano (with select guests).
ELEW — ELEW Plays Sting
Joe Henderson Lab (SFJAZZ), San Francisco
Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025 — 7:00 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 14, 2025 — 6:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Tickets: Visit SFJAZZ.org and search “ELEW Plays Sting.”
Host/Producer: Steven Roby — Backstage Bay Area
Editing & Post: Backstage Bay Area team
Backstage Bay Area: www.backstagebayarea.com
SFJAZZ: www.sfjazz.org
Follow ELEW on social media and streaming platforms
Guest: Anthony Wilson — guitarist, composer, bandleader
Episode focus: Anthony’s new live double LP House of the Singing Blossoms (recorded at Sam First), the return of his nonet, and his upcoming SFJAZZ shows (Sept. 4–5; two shows nightly) in the Joe Henderson Lab.
Episode Summary
Guitarist–composer Anthony Wilson joins host Steve Roby to talk about reviving the nine-piece band that shaped his early voice and powers his new live album, House of the Singing Blossoms. Wilson digs into arranging for nonet, capturing the energy of a listening room on record, and why the album was designed for the deep, side-by-side experience of vinyl. He also previews the SFJAZZ dates, the evolving lineup, and how this music balances songful melody with fearless improvisation.
Why Listen
Key Quotes (from Anthony Wilson)
Conversation Highlights
Music Featured in This Episode
Personnel — Sam First Recording
Anthony Wilson (guitar), CJ Camerieri (trumpet/French horn), Alan Ferber (trombone), Nicole McCabe (alto sax), Bob Reynolds (tenor sax), Henry Solomon (baritone sax), Gerald Clayton (piano), Anna Butterss (bass), Mark Ferber (drums).
Upcoming Shows
SFJAZZ — Joe Henderson Lab
Dates: September 4–5 (two shows nightly)
What to expect: Song-forward writing, expansive solos, and the punch and glow of a nine-piece band in an intimate room.
Credits
Connect
This week on Backstage Bay Area, Steve Roby sits down with Nikki Fruth and Jon Stenz from Silverset, a rising San Francisco indie rock trio making waves with their dreamy, energetic sound. The band, rounded out by guitarist Grant Hespeler, has quickly gained attention with their debut single “Wherever You Are, Wherever You Go,” which has already surpassed 10,000 Spotify streams.
In this episode:
Upcoming Dates:
Connect with Silverset:
Stay tuned to Backstage Bay Area for more exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes stories from the Bay’s vibrant music scene!
Show Notes:
In this special episode of Backstage Bay Area, we head to Lincoln, Nebraska—home of the heartfelt folk-Americana trio The Wildwoods. Host Steve Roby sits down with Noah and Chloe Gose to discuss their upcoming album Dear Meadowlark, a project steeped in imagery of open roads, hometown nostalgia, and the poetic quietude of rural life.
The conversation explores how the couple met through music in their school days, their evolution from young musicians into seasoned touring artists, and the beauty they find in their Nebraska roots. You’ll hear stories behind their songs like “Sweet Niobrara” and “I Will Follow You to Willow,” learn about their single-mic recording technique, and get a taste of what’s in store for their upcoming performance at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley. From John Prine to Joni Mitchell, the duo shares how their influences shaped them—without ever losing their own distinct voice.
Guest Information:
The Wildwoods are a folk-Americana trio based in Lincoln, Nebraska. Featuring Noah Gose (vocals, acoustic/electric guitar), Chloe Gose (vocals, violin), and Andrew Vaggalis (vocals, upright bass), the band is known for its rich harmonies, acoustic instrumentation, and honest storytelling. Their fourth full-length album, Dear Meadowlark, is set for release on April 11, 2025.
Website: www.thewildwoodsband.com
Upcoming Show:
Catch The Wildwoods live at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley:
Sunday, August 17
Doors at 7:00 PM | Show at 8:00 PM
Tickets: sweetwatermusichall.org
Essential Takeaways:
- Dear Meadowlark is a love letter to Nebraska and a reflection on life on the road.
- The single “Sweet Niobrara” was inspired by quiet drives through sunflower-lined highways near Valentine, NE.
- The band’s sound blends folk traditions with indie nuance, drawing comparisons to Nickel Creek and Gillian Welch.
- Noah and Chloe stress the importance of staying true to your artistic voice in the age of trends.
- Their performances are as much about storytelling and connection as they are about musicianship.
Call to Action:
Like what you heard? Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube (youtube.com/@Backstagebayarea) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/songs-stories/id1522911650). Don’t forget to leave a review and share the episode with fellow music lovers.
Podcast Playlist – Songs Featured in the Episode:
“Sweet Niobrara”
“I Will Follow You to Willow”
Hashtags:
#TheWildwoods #DearMeadowlark #FolkAmericana #BackstageBayArea #SweetwaterMusicHall #IndieFolk #NebraskaMusic #LiveFolkMusic #PodcastInterview #RootsRevival #SupportLocalMusic
This year’s revamped San Francisco Jazz Festival, curated by SFJAZZ Executive Artistic Director Terence Blanchard, takes place on June 13-15, 2025. It features 35 concerts over 3 days in various venues in San Francisco's Hayes Valley art district. Performances include Stanley Clarke, Charles Lloyd, Patrice Rushen, Cimafunk, The Soul Rebels, Lakecia Benjamin, Ambrose Akinmusire, Dave Holland, Lisa Fischer, Theo Croker, Brandon Woody's Upendo, Tyreek McDole, Idris Ackamoor, and many more. This three-day bash will also include DJs, food trucks, a beer garden, local wine vendors, art, and a vinyl record swap. 3-Day and Daily Ticket Passes are now available.
Show Notes: In this captivating episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with five-time Grammy nominee Lakecia Benjamin, a saxophonist, composer, and trailblazer redefining modern jazz. Lakecia shares insights into her latest album, Phoenix Reimagined (Live), a vibrant celebration of resilience featuring collaborations with legends like John Scofield and Randy Brecker. Recorded live at Brooklyn's The Bunker, this Grammy-nominated album brings her electric stage energy to life, offering listeners a genuinely immersive jazz experience.
Dive into Lakecia’s journey, from her Washington Heights roots and early work with icons like Stevie Wonder and Prince to her heartfelt tributes to John and Alice Coltrane. She discusses the evolving artistry that has shaped her career, the power of live music as a communal experience, and her upcoming performance at Yoshi’s Oakland on February 8. Don't miss this rich exploration of music, creativity, and the human connection.
Guest Information:
Call-To-Action:
Love what you hear? Make sure to:
Podcast Playlist:
Essential Takeaways:
Hashtags:
#BackstageBayArea #LakeciaBenjamin #JazzMusic #PhoenixReimagined #LiveMusic #GrammyNominee #YoshisOakland
Show Notes:
In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, Steven Roby sits down with the extraordinary flutist, composer, and educator Jamie Baum. Known for her trailblazing work blending jazz with classical, South Asian, and spoken-word influences, Jamie discusses her latest album, What Times Are These. She reflects on her inspirations, her creative process of setting modern poetry to music, and her enduring passion for musical exploration.
The conversation also highlights Jamie’s upcoming West Coast performances, including her shows in Santa Cruz, San Francisco, and Half Moon Bay. Listeners will gain insights into Jamie’s unique Septet+ and her quartet and the challenges and triumphs of composing during the pandemic.
Guest Information:
Jamie Baum
Flutist, composer, Sunnyside Records artist, and educator. Explore her work and stay updated:
Upcoming Performances:
Essential Episode Takeaways:
Call-to-Action:
Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area for more intimate conversations with trailblazing artists. Follow us on YouTube at youtube.com/@BackstageBayArea and listen on Apple Podcasts.
Podcast Playlist:
Hashtags:
#JamieBaum #WhatTimesAreThese #Jazz #ModernJazz #BackstageBayArea #SFJazz #FluteMusic #SantaCruzJazz #HalfMoonBayMusic
Photo: Erika Kapln
Episode Overview:
In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Sam Lucid, bassist, vocalist, and songwriter for the genre-defying band Dogs in a Pile. Based out of Asbury Park, New Jersey, the band has built a passionate fanbase with their eclectic blend of funk, jazz, rock, and psychedelia. Sam talks about the band’s creative process, upcoming album, and what fans can expect from their highly anticipated show at Rickshaw Stop in San Francisco. He also shares stories from the road, including the band’s efforts to support wildfire relief during their West Coast tour.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Featured Tracks in This Episode:
Upcoming Tour Date Highlight:
About the Band:
Dogs in a Pile is an eclectic quintet from Asbury Park, New Jersey, merging funk, jazz, rock, and psychedelia into an unmistakable sound. Their dedicated fanbase, affectionately called the Dog Pound, has helped propel their meteoric rise across the country. For more information on the band, including music, tour dates, and merchandise, visit dogsinapileofficial.com.
Show Notes:
In this episode of Backstage Bay Area, host Steven Roby sits down with Karen Barajas of Karen y Los Remedios, the trailblazing trio redefining the boundaries of cumbia. Karen shares the group's origin story, from early collaborations with Jonathan Muriel (Jiony) and the addition of guitarist Guillermo Berbeyer (Z.A.M.P.A.) to their evolution into one of the most innovative acts in Latin music today. The discussion delves into the group’s creative process, blending traditional Latin rhythms with downtempo and electronic experimentation, and the profoundly personal inspirations behind their acclaimed 2023 album Silencio.
Karen opens up about her journey as an artist, the influences that shaped her sound, and what fans can expect at their upcoming show on January 19th at San Francisco’s Rickshaw Stop. Along the way, listeners will hear standout tracks from the group, including “Las Muchachas,” “Cartas Marinas,” and “Presagio.” Tune in for a thoughtful, engaging conversation that bridges the poetic and the danceable, offering a fresh perspective on modern cumbia.
Guest Information:
Call-To-Action:
Don’t miss Karen y Los Remedios live in concert on Sunday, January 19th, at Rickshaw Stop in San Francisco. Doors open at 7 PM, and tickets are available here. Be sure to subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts to never miss an episode!
Podcast Playlist – Songs Played in the Episode:
Hashtags:
#BackstageBayArea #KarenyLosRemedios #CumbiaFusion #SilencioAlbum #LiveMusicSF #PodcastLife
Show Notes:
In this episode, we sat down with Sam An, the artist behind Lana Del Rabies, to explore the intersection of myth, music, and survival. Known for her genre-defying sound that blends industrial, gothic noise, and experimental metal, An discusses the creative process behind her critically acclaimed album STREGA BEATA, from the apocalyptic themes of “Apocalypse Fatigue” to the empowering mythology of “Queen of the Black Muses,” Sam shares how grief, humanity’s destructive impulses, and her existential reflections shape her art.
We also discuss her electrifying live performances, the visual storytelling that complements her music, and her upcoming show at Eli’s Mile High Club in Oakland on January 12th. Whether you’re a fan of experimental music or intrigued by the cathartic power of art, this episode offers an unforgettable glimpse into the mind of an artist redefining dark music.
Guest Information:
Call-To-Action:
Don’t miss Lana Del Rabies live at Eli’s Mile High Club in Oakland on Sunday, January 12th. Grab your tickets here: Eli’s Mile High Club Tickets.
Subscribe to Backstage Bay Area on YouTube and Apple Podcasts to catch all the latest episodes and dive deeper into the music world.
Podcast Playlist – Songs Featured in This Episode:
1. “Apocalypse Fatigue”
2. “Hallowed Is The Earth”
3. “Queen of the Black Muses”
Hashtags:
#LanaDelRabies #DarkMusic #ExperimentalNoise #IndustrialMusic #STREGABEATA #OaklandMusicScene #BackstageBayArea #LiveMusic
