Home - Burnt Sugar The Arkestra Chamber Music | Burnt Sugar The Arkestra Chamber Episode Summary In this wide-ranging Slang of Ages Podcast conversation, host Preston Frazier sits down with members and collaborators from Burnt Sugar The Arkestra Chamber to explore how one of New York’s most boundary-defying ensembles actually works. The discussion opens with a history of the band and co-founder Greg Tate, before moving into the distinct roles each band member plays within the collective. As the conversation deepens, the focus turns to Burnt Sugar’s unique use of conduction, real-time composition, and the balance between preparation and spontaneity. Members reflect on the ensemble’s evolution, from James Brown tributes at the Apollo to radical re-imaginations of iconic songbooks, while honoring the extended Burnt Sugar family of alumni who’ve gone on to influential careers of their own. Innovative instruments, including Leon Gruenbaum’s Samchillian and its modern offshoots, highlight the group’s commitment to pushing musical language forward. The episode also touches on Burnt Sugar’s 20th-anniversary release If You Can’t Dazzle Them with Brilliance, Then Baffle Them With Blushuth Two, the value of imperfection in recording, and the deep sense of community that fuels ongoing collaborations, side projects, and future initiatives—underscoring why Burnt Sugar remains less a band than a living, breathing musical ecosystem. BSAC Member Projects & Community Burnt Sugar is a "cosmic family" that fosters numerous member-led projects. Ben Tyree (Guitar): Leads Ben Tyree's Activator Trio, a "science fiction" organ trio featuring Leon Gruenbaum and Chris Eddleton. Bruce Mack (Synth, Vocals): Leads B MACK a band for his songwriting, and plays with Nubian Messengers (West African drumming) and 80 Pound Pug (improvisational metal). Frae-Frae: Grateful (Drums): LaFrae Sci is the Executive & Artistic Director of Willie Mae Rock Camp, a tuition-free, STEM-based music program for youth. Projects: A children's book/soundtrack ("Black girl sound scientist"), a quadraphonic improvisation for the New Ear Festival, and a piece with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company (DCDC) for the Dayton Ballet, a project with Shelley Nicole re-imagining Abby Lincoln entitled The Tao of Abby Lincoln Jared Michael Nickerson (Electric Bubble Bass): Burnt Sugar Projects: New recordings next year based on long lost Greg Tate's computer motifs; a "Burnt Sugar Smokehouse" record featuring BSAC-member bands. Personal Project: Performing Freedy Johnston's Can You Fly album in sequence at The Bitter End on March 8th with original recording members including Graham Maby, Syd Straw and Kevin Salem, releasing his first solo recording in 2026 under the name J’s Bubble Troop. Leon Gruenbaum (Keyboards): Inventor of the Samchillian keyboard. Project: Finishing an album that blends electronic pieces created with his Misha device (based on the Samchillian) with acoustic instruments. Marque Gilmore tha Inna Most (Drums/Electronics): Projects: The Gilmore Brothers (duet with brother David Gilmore); "Junglist Breaks vs. Human Mistakes" Vol. 2 (compilation for Maasai water wells); a drum and bass remix project of Black Rock Coalition classics. “Moist”Paula Henderson (Baritone Sax): Projects: Plans to form a new instrumental rock band in 2026; active session musician with Reverend Vince Anderson, Nick Waterhouse, and the Binky Griptite Orchestra. LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE! My new book, “Yes Indeed: Tales From Yes, Without Jon Anderson,” is out now! Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access, and to support the Slang of Ages podcast My first book, “Toto, The Band, Not the Dog”, is also available at major book retailers and at www.slangofages.com, as well as through your online retailers.

From Miami’s humid streets to Boca Raton’s Studio Del Sol, Fat Produce brings the funk, the soul, and a heavy dose of groove to their sophomore release, Soulful Days. The guitar-and-drum duo of Addison Rifkind and Michael Duffy, now joined by upright bassist Nestor Del Prado, take a joyride through deep cuts and cult classics — reshaping everything from Isaac Hayes to Sister Nancy with their own sun-baked swagger. Tracked live to 8-track tape, the album captures the immediacy and grit of a trio that lives for the pocket. I caught up with Addison and Michael to talk about their process, influences, and what makes these Soulful Days so sweet. https://fatproduce.bandcamp.com https://www.fspotrecords.com

The Slang Of Ages Podcast welcomes back composer, saxophonist, and educator Ron Blake back to the podcast. This interview, recorded on September 16, 2025, features Ron Blake discussing his album 'Scratch Band'. It explores the tradition of scratch bands in the Virgin Islands, the influence of Caribbean and quelbé folk heritage, and how Ron balances honoring those roots with exploring new musical directions. The discussion touches on his creative process, cultural inspiration, and the evolution of the project since his last interview in 2023. Check out: ronblakemusic.com

In this Slang of Ages conversation, Preston Frazier reconnects with British multi-instrumentalist Joe Bailey to discuss his latest solo album, Torrential Pain. Known for his prolific output and one-man-band approach, Bailey breaks down the evolution of his songwriting, production, and performance process—from the guitar-driven power of Torrential Pain to his increasingly sophisticated vocal harmonies and orchestral textures. Bailey explains how the album’s six tracks, though not bound by a strict concept, explore familiar themes of inner conflict, existential dread, and resilience through lush soundscapes and intricate arrangements. He details the use of his new Sustaniac-equipped guitar, the balance between melody and aggression, and his ongoing collaboration with Marc Anthony K on The Dark Monarchy project. The discussion also touches on Bailey’s limited vinyl release, production philosophy, and his plans to remix and reissue his early albums The End Comes Too Late and Night and Day for their upcoming 10th anniversary. Thoughtful, candid, and darkly humorous, Bailey’s reflections reveal the depth behind his art—and why Torrential Pain might be his most accomplished work yet. https://joebailey1.bandcamp.com/album/torrential-pain

Friend of the podcast, Mark Anthony K, returns to talk about his bold new album, 'The Dark Days of Yesterday’. Order it at: https://projektgemineye.bandcamp.com/merch. Check out my review at: https://slangofages.com/short-tracks-the-dark-days-of-yesterday-by-projekt-gemineye-2025/

Preston interviewed Danny Ayala about his new album "Only Fools Who Love Again," discussing his recent tours and the album's creation process, which began during COVID and involved collaborations with various musicians, including Fernando Perdomo and the Lemon Twigs. Danny shared insights about his musical influences and songwriting approach, highlighting how his diverse background informed the album's cohesive sound that blends power pop, pop rock, and modern elements. https://danny-ayala.bandcamp.com/album/only-fools-love-again

In this episode of Slang of Ages Podcast, Preston Frazier sits down with author, podcaster, and Yes scholar Kevin Mulryne to discuss his latest book, Tales from Topographic Oceans – Yes Album Listening Guide. Building on the success of his earlier work, The Tormato Story, Mulryne dives deep into one of Yes’s most polarizing and ambitious albums. He reveals how a fan poll led him to tackle the project, the discoveries he made from speaking with band members and technical staff, and the surprising role of little-known engineer Gennaro Rippo in the making of the record. Mulryne also unpacks Rick Wakeman’s often-misunderstood contributions, the technical innovations behind his keyboards, and Chris Squire’s rare use of acoustic bass. The conversation explores the band’s internal dynamics, the challenges of translating Tales to the stage, and Roger Dean’s iconic cover art. Looking ahead, Mulryne shares plans for future Yes listening guides and a forthcoming photo book collaboration with rock photographer Barry Plummer. For Yes fans—whether they revere or resist Tales—this interview highlights why the album continues to fascinate, frustrate, and inspire 50 years after its release. https://yesmusicpodcast.com LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE! My new book, “Yes Indeed: Tales From Yes, Without Jon Anderson,” is out now!

This was a delightful interview. Thanks to La Tanya Hall, for discussing her new album. This interview delves into the inspiration and creative process behind the album 'If Not Now, When...' It delves into the artist’s introspective journey, the impact of the pandemic on their music, the urgency conveyed by the album title, and the careful selection of emotionally resonant songs. https://latanyahall.com LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE! My new book, “Yes Indeed: Tales From Yes, Without Jon Anderson,” is out now! Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access, and to support the Slang of Ages podcast. My first book, “Toto, The Band, Not the Dog” , is also available at major book retailers and at www.slangofages.com, as well as through your online retailers.

I sit down with one of my favorite musicians, Vernon A. Reid, to discuss his first solo album in years, 'Hoodoo Telemetry'. Vernon discusses the songwriting and production process of the solo album and touches on Living Colour. This is part one, as we got cut off before we discussed the compositions on the album and new Living Colour music. Part 2 is available exclusively on my Patreon page. https://blackrockcoali https://livingcolour.com LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE! My new book, “Yes Indeed: Tales From Yes, Without Jon Anderson,” is out now! Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access, and to support the Slang of Ages podcast. My first book, “Toto, The Band, Not the Dog”, is also available at major book retailers and at www.slangofages.com, as well as through your online retailers.

Preston interviews Atlanta based, classically trained opera tenor Travis Hall . He has stunned the music community with his debut, HeART Museum .  Like, share and subscribe to the Slang of Ages Podcast.

The interview features returning guest Steve Porcaro discussing his new album, The Very Day. He talks about the inspiration behind the project, the creative process, and what listeners can expect from the songs. He also shares insights into his musical journey and the personal stories that shaped the album. LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE! My new book, “Yes Indeed: Tales From Yes, Without Jon Anderson,” is out now! Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access, and to support the Slang of Ages podcast. My first book, “Toto, The Band, Not the Dog”, is also available at major book retailers and at www.slangofages.com, as well as through your online retailers. www.slangofages.com

Here's my interview with multi-Grammy-winning Alto sax player Miguel Zenon. We chat about his Quartet's first-ever live recording. He came up with six original new compositions and two fascinating covers. Check out his releases on Bandcamp and at MiguelZenon.com. The album is out now. Find it! My new book, “Yes Indeed: Tales From Yes, Without Jon Anderson,” is out now!   Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access, and to support the Slang of Ages podcast My Book, Toto, The Band, Not the Dog, is out now. Find it at www.slangofages.com or your online retailers. Special Thanks to my Patreon Executive Producers: Cynthia Tom, Cheryl Frazier, and Vinicio Cifuentes Check out all my reviews at slangofages.com. You may also donate on the ‘about’ page. Thanks for your support. Please like, share, and subscribe!

The Slang Of Ages' 100th episode features the return of Joe Williams. He interviews me about my second book, “Yes Indeed - Tales From Yes Without Jon Anderson”. The book is out now at major retailers. LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE! Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access, and to support the Slang of Ages podcast. www.slangofages.com Special Thanks to my Patreon Executive Producers: Cynthia Tom, Cheryl Frazier and Vinicio Cifuentes. Check out all my reviews at slangofages.com. You may also donate on the ‘about’ page.

Both Colin Hancock and Catherine Russell are jazz historians. More importantly, they are vital, active touring musicians. We have a great discussion about their album, 'Cat & The Hounds'. I hope you enjoy this, I know I did!. LIKE, SHARE and SUBCRIBE! Like The Slang Of Ages Podcast page on Facebook. Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access and to support the slang of ages podcast. My Book, Toto, The Band, Not the Dog is out now. Find it at www.slangofages.com or your online retailers. Special Thanks to my Patreon Executive Producers: Cynthia Tom, Cheryl Frazier and Vinicio Cifuentes. Check out all my reviews at slangofages.com. You may also donate on the ‘about’ page.

Progressive rock musician and author, Tim Morse, discusses the release of Transformation - 20th Anniversary Edition. The album is a remastered version of his first solo release with an additional 60 minutes of music. We also discuss Tim's inspiration and other albums in his catalog. www.timmorse.com LIKE, SHARE and SUBCRIBE! Like The Slang Of Ages Podcast page on Facebook. Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access and to support the slang of ages podcast. My Book, Toto, The Band, Not the Dog is out now. Find it at www.slangofages.com or your online retailers. Special Thanks to my Patreon Executive Producers: Cynthia Tom, Cheryl Frazier and Vinicio Cifuentes. Check out all my reviews at slangofages.com. You may also donate on the ‘about’ page.

Released in 1990, The Neighborhood by Los Lobos is a richly textured album that blends rock, blues, soul, and the band’s Mexican-American roots into a cohesive and powerful musical statement. Known for their versatility and heartfelt storytelling, Los Lobos explore themes of community, identity, and resilience, with standout tracks like “Down on the Riverbed” and “Emily” showcasing their ability to shift seamlessly between genres while maintaining emotional depth. The album features contributions from notable guest artists, including Levon Helm and John Hiatt, adding further layers to its sound. The Neighborhood marked a return to more traditional songwriting after the experimental La Pistola y El Corazón, reaffirming Los Lobos’ place as one of the most innovative and authentic bands in American rock. Thanks to Exec Producers: Cynthia Tom, Cheryl Frazier, and Vinicio Cifuentes. Check out all my reviews at slangofages.com. You may also donate on the ‘about’ page. Buy my book: “Toto- The Band, Not The Dog,” on Amazon ( https://www.amazon.com/Toto-Band-Comp...) and Barnes and Noble. Please like, share, and subscribe. Also, join my Patreon page for exclusive content and early access at https://www.patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast

Lyle Lovett and His Large Band – A Genre-Defying Classic When Lyle Lovett and His Large Band was released in 1989, it was clear that Lovett, for his third album, wasn’t interested in playing by Nashville’s rules. Lovett created something bold and utterly unique by fusing big band jazz, gospel, blues, and Western swing with his already offbeat country style. This wasn’t just an album — it was a declaration of artistic independence. LIKE, SHARE and SUBCRIBE! Like The Slang Of Ages Podcast page on Facebook. Check out patreon.com/SlangOfAgesPodcast for exclusive content, early access and to support the slang of ages podcast. My Book, Toto, The Band, Not the Dog is out now. Find it at www.slangofages.com or your online retailers. Special Thanks to my Patreon Executive Producers: Cynthia Tom, Cheryl Frazier and Vinicio Cifuentes. Check out all my reviews at slangofages.com. You may also donate on the ‘about’ page.

Cincinnati based jazz pianist and composer, Ben Tweedt discusses his trio debut, 'Life Cycle'. This bold expression of Tweedt'd creativity includes nine original songs showcasing his compositional, production and arranging skills. Enjoy a an early listen to the interview. Check out www.bentweedtmusic.com.

I sit down again with the prolific Fernando Perdomo. This time we talk about his 12 album series 'Waves' . Fernando is releasing one album every month in 2025 for the Waves project in addition to other solo albums, collaborations and tours. You don't want to miss this conversation.

Musician Jaime Ospina joined a Preston to discuss his upcoming album, 'The Vessel - A Tribute to the African Diaspora', set for release on May 24, 2025. The project blends African diaspora influences—jazz, Afrobeat, reggae—with Colombian rhythms, recorded live in a week with top Austin musicians. Inspired by Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue, Ospina emphasized spontaneity and collaboration. Produced by Beto Martinez, the album explores themes of heritage, identity, and authenticity through rich instrumentation and both vocal and instrumental tracks. Future plans include a vinyl release, house concert tour, and balancing music with parenthood, while continuing to develop new melodies for future projects.