Monday 31 December 2018

Doctor Who - The Oseidon Adventure

DOCTOR WHO - THE OSEIDON ADVENTURE (320kbs-m4a/125mb/55mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 24th February 2018

The first time the fearsome Kraals attempted to take over the Earth, with the help of their android agents, things didn't go quite according to plan - thanks to the time-travelling alien Doctor and his allies at UNIT.

This time, Marshal Grinmal and his belligerent cohorts are ready for them. This time, they'll make no mistakes. This time, Chief Scientist Tyngworg has not just one plan, but a back-up plan, and a back-up back-up plan worked out...

With the Doctor a prisoner on the Kraals' radiation-blasted home planet of Oseidon, only his companion Leela can save the day - alongside a most unlikely ally.

Tom Baker is the Fourth Doctor, with his ancient warrior companion, Leela, played by Louise Jameson.

Written by Alan Barnes and directed by Ken Bentley.

A Big Finish production.

Sunday 30 December 2018

Doctor Who - Trail Of The White Worm

DOCTOR WHO - TRAIL OF THE WHITE WORM (320kbs-m4a/121mb/53mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 17th February 2018

The legend dates back to Roman times, at least: a great White Worm, as wide as a man, slithers out of the rocks of the Dark Peak Gap to take animals, sometimes even children, for its food.

When the Doctor and Leela arrive in the wilds of Derbyshire, only to get caught up in the hunt for a missing girl, they soon discover that the legend of the Worm is very much alive - even now, in 1979.

Worse still, it seems that the Doctor isn't the only renegade Time Lord on the trail of this deadly and mysterious Worm...

Tom Baker is the Fourth Doctor, with his ancient warrior companion, Leela, played by Louise Jameson.

Written by Alan Barnes and directed by Ken Bentley.

A Big Finish production.

Saturday 29 December 2018

Doctor Who - Energy Of The Daleks

DOCTOR WHO - ENERGY OF THE DALEKS (320kbs-m4a/131mb/57mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 10th February 2018

The Doctor and Leela find themselves in the middle of London at the time of a new energy crisis. The GlobeSphere Corporation seems to have all the answers - but several thousand protestors beg to differ.

What is the connection between the National Gallery and a base on the Moon? Has radical thinker Damien Stephens simply sold out, or does he have a more sinister agenda?

The Doctor has detected a mysterious energy reading. Could it be that the most evil creatures in the universe have returned to claim ultimate victory once and for all?

Tom Baker is the Fourth Doctor, with his ancient warrior companion, Leela, played by Louise Jameson.

Written and directed by Nicholas Briggs.

A Big Finish production.

Friday 28 December 2018

Doctor Who - The Wrath Of The Iceni

DOCTOR WHO - THE WRATH OF THE ICENI (320kbs-m4a/134mb/58mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 3rd February 2018

Britain. The height of the Roman occupation. The Doctor has brought Leela to ancient Norfolk to learn about her ancestors... but has no idea how much of an education she is going to get.

Because this is the time of Boudica's rebellion. When the tribe of the Iceni rises up and attempts to overthrow the Roman masters.

As Leela begins to be swayed by the warrior queen's words, the Doctor has to make a decision: save his friend... or save history itself?

Tom Baker is the Fourth Doctor, with his ancient warrior companion, Leela, played by Louise Jameson.

Written by John Dorney and directed by Ken Bentley.

A Big Finish production.

Thursday 27 December 2018

Doctor Who - The Renaissance Man

DOCTOR WHO - THE RENAISSANCE MAN (320kbs-m4a/137mb/60mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 27th January 2018

To continue Leela's education, the Doctor promises to take her to the famous Morovanian Museum. But the TARDIS lands instead in a quiet English village, where they meet the enigmatic collector Harcourt and his family.

When people start to die, reality doesn't appear quite what it was. There's something sinister going on within the walls of Harcourt's manor, and the stakes are higher than they can imagine.

The Doctor is about to discover that a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing.

Tom Baker is the Fourth Doctor, with his ancient warrior companion, Leela, played by Louise Jameson.

Written by Justin Richards and directed by Ken Bentley for Big Finish.

A Big Finish production.

Wednesday 26 December 2018

Doctor Who - Destination Nerva

DOCTOR WHO - DESTINATION NERVA (320kbs-m4a/130mb/57mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 20th January 2018

After saying their goodbyes to Professor Litefoot and Henry Gordon Jago, the Doctor and Leela respond to an alien distress call beamed direct from Victorian England. It's the beginning of a journey that will take them to the newly built Space Dock Nerva... where a long overdue homecoming is expected. A homecoming that could bring about the end of the human race.

Tom Baker is the Fourth Doctor, with his ancient warrior companion, Leela, played by Louise Jameson.

Written and directed by Nicholas Briggs.

A Big Finish production.

Tuesday 25 December 2018

Yes Minister - Series 2

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - EPISODES 1 - 8 (320kbs-m4a/497mb/3hrs36mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 27th September to 15th November 2018

Antony Jay and Jonathan Lynn satirical sitcom ran on BBC TV between 1980 and 1984. Yes Minister is centred around the hapless Jim Hacker and a collection of civil service underlings headed by the Machiavellian Sir Humphrey Appleby and obsequious Bernard.

Adapted for radio by producer Pete Atkin.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 1. THE COMPASSIONATE SOCIETY (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 27th September 2018

A new hospital needs a cure, but does MP Jim Hacker know his ACAS from his NALGO?

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby and Derek Fowldes as Bernard.

With Peter Jeffrey as Sir Ian, Norman Bird as Brian Baker, Arthur Cox as George and Ellen McIntosh as Mrs Rogers.

First broadcast on Radio 4 in 1984.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 2. THE GREASY POLE (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 4th October 2018

Blending jobs with chemicals makes an explosive mixture for MP Jim Hacker.

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby and Derek Fowldes as Bernard.

With Brenda Blethyn as Joan Littler MP, Freddie Earlle as Sir Wally Macfarlane, Jerome Willis as Professor Henderson and Moira Stuart as herself.

First broadcast on Radio 4 in 1984.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 3. THE SKELETON IN THE CUPBOARD (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 11th October 2018

Jim Hacker gets the better of Sir Humphrey over a crisis in Derbyshire.

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby,Derek Fowldes as Bernard and Ian Lavender as Dr Cartwright.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1984.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 4. A QUESTION OF LOYALTY (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)

BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 18th October 2018

With a war on waste at the Civil Service - what does Jim Hacker think?

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby, Derek Fowldes as Bernard and Judy Parfitt as Betty Oldham MP.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October 1984.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 5. THE QUALITY OF LIFE (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)

BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 25th October 2018

Jim Hacker gets floored by the high rise world of property business.

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby, Derek Fowldes as Bernard, Richard Vernon as Sir Desmond and Selina Scott as herself.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1984.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 6. THE WHISKY PRIEST (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 1st November 2018

Facing a moral dilemma over the sale of British-made weapons, Jim Hacker tries to shun Sir Humphrey's advice.

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby, Derek Fowldes as Bernard and Anton Rodgers as Major Saunders.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1984.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 7. THE DEATH LIST (320kbs-m4a/60mb/26mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 8th November 2018

A victim of phone tapping, Jim Hacker rebuts state surveillance - until his own life comes under threat.

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby, Derek Fowldes as Bernard and Graeme Garden as Commander Forrest.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1984.

YES MINISTER SERIES 2 - 8. THE MORAL DIMENSION (320kbs-m4a/61mb/26mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 15th November 2018

Thirsty Jim Hacker's trip to an Arab state sparks diplomatic disarray.

Starring Paul Eddington as Jim Hacker, Nigel Hawthorne as Sir Humphrey Appleby and Derek Fowldes as Bernard.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in November 1984.

Monday 24 December 2018

Archive On 4: How Santa Claus Stole Christmas

ARCHIVE ON 4: HOW SANTA CLAUS STOLE CHRISTMAS (320kbs-m4a/130mb/57mins)
BBC Radio 4 broadcast: 22nd December 2018

Cultural historian and writer Christopher Frayling explores how Hollywood movies helped to create the modern global Christmas.

If Dickens' A Christmas Carol invented the Victorian Christmas of family, good works and good cheer, Hollywood has created its modern counterpoint - Santa Claus, elaborate presents, hummable tunes, consumer satisfaction and family tensions and reconciliations.

From Holiday Inn and Miracle On 34th Street to It's A Wonderful Life and White Christmas, Christmas movies are designed to create a warm glow in the audience. They have helped turn Christmas into a global event, spread across cultures and religions, and rebranded for the age of mass consumption.

In the process, the meaning of Christmas has become comprehensively Americanised - complete with the ubiquitous iconography of Santa Claus, red-nosed reindeer, red costumes trimmed with white and shopping to the sound of piped seasonal muzak. A cultural critic said recently that Santa Claus is to American material faith what Jesus Christ is to the spiritual.

Christopher Frayling dives into the BBC archive to discover how this happened and why - with the help of filmmakers, advertisers and historians, as well as comedians, commentators and religious figures.

Interviewees:
Joe Dante, film director
Judith Flanders, historian and author
Sir John Hegarty, advertising executive
Karen Krizanovich, broadcaster and writer
Kim Newman, critic and horror writer

Producer: Jane Long
A Hidden Flack production for BBC Radio 4

Sunday 23 December 2018

Stuart Maconie's Freak Zone - Slow Sunday Slo-Mo Soundtrack

STUART MACONIE'S FREAK ZONE - SLOW SUNDAY SLO-MO SOUNDTRACK (320kbs-m4a/258mb/1hr52mins)

BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 28th October 2018

As the clocks change and we gain an hour in the day, 6 Music will be taking things easy and having a slow Sunday. We recommend you listen in the following environment - put something unusual on the TV, mute it and listen to this slow-motion soundtrack instead. Celestial ambience, calming neoclassical compositions and uplifting doom all feature in this slow Sunday show for adventurous listeners.

Philip Glass - Music In Twelve Parts (Part 1) [Caroline]
Zawinul - In A Silent Way [Atlantic]
Bulgarian State Radio & Television Female Vocal Choir - Atmadja Duma Strachilu [4AD]
Morton Feldman & Juliet Fraser - Three Voices (1982) - 5th Movement [hat[now]ART]
Wolves In The Throne Room - Woodland Cathedral [Southern Lord]
Mats Bergström & Svante Henryson & Magnus Persson - Melting Ice [Mats Bergström Music AB]
Matthew Halsall - The Sun In September [Gondwana]
Alice Coltrane - Yamuna Tira Vihari [Avatar Book Institute]
Laraaji - Meditation #1 [Glitterbeat]
Laurence Crane & Apartment House - Sparling [Another Timbre]
Sarah Davachi - For Organ [Sarah Davachi]
Tangerine Dream - Sequent 'C' [Virgin]
Can - Future Days [United Artists]
Bibio - Phantom Brickworks III [Warp]
Khruangbin - Shades Of Man [Night Time Stories Ltd.]
Bronnt Industries Kapital - High Above The Thirsting Fields [I Own You]
Leyland Kirby - Tonight Is The Last Night Of The World
Virginia Astley - It's Too Hot To Sleep [Rough Trade]
Brian Eno & Daniel Lanois & Roger Eno - Always Returning [Virgin/Astralwerks]

Saturday 22 December 2018

Thom Yorke - 6 Music Slow Sunday 28th October 2018

THOM YORKE - 6 MUSIC SLOW SUNDAY 28.10.18 (320kbs-m4a/138mb/60mins)
BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 28th October 2018

Radiohead frontman Thom Yorke presents an exclusive hour long mix consisting of a selection of his favourite atmospheric records. The show includes a previously unheard Thom Yorke solo track, written for the film Suspiria but not included on the soundtrack, alongside James Blake, Ryuichi Sakamoto, Szun Waves and many more.

Pierre Henry & Pierre Schaeffer - Gene Piece, R.A.I Bird [Sinetone AMR]
Quasimoto - Catching The Vibe [Stones Throw]
Pedro Santos - Desengano Da Vista [Polysom]
Low - Always Trying To Work It Out [Sub Pop]
Thom Yorke - Suspiria Solo Glass Harmonica [Unreleased]
Faust - Heißt das es läuft oder es kommt bald… Läuft [Virgin]
Ryuichi Sakamoto - Fullmoon / Andata [Milan]
Szun Waves - Constellation [The Leaf Label]
Thom Yorke - Sabbath Incantation [XL Recordings]
Lightnin’ Hopkins - Awful Dreams [Collectables]
James Blake - Why Don't You Call Me [Polydor]
Thom Yorke - The Universe Is Indifferent [XL Recordings]
Laurie Spiegel - The Unquestioned Answer [Unseen Worlds]

Friday 21 December 2018

Fred Deakin - FredMix 2018/19 (We'll Be Right Back)

FRED DEAKIN - FREDMIX 2018/19 (WE'LL BE RIGHT BACK) (320kbs/239mb/1hr44mins)
@FredDeakin download: 21st December 2018 

David Frost And Billy Taylor - Bright Star In The East
Django Django - Fountains
Joe Cleen - Give You All I Got
Orange Tree Edits - Para Ti
Jim Dunloop - The Love Ride
Roy Ayers - Liquid Love (Pleasure Of Love Remix)
Lou Hayter - Cherry On Top
Mutable - A
Jovonn - Pieces Of Gold
Bob Sinclar - The Ghetto
Aretha Franklin - When You Get Right Down To It
Teleman - Song For A Seagull
Roy Harper - Midspring Dithering
McKay Allstars - Heed The Message (Joey Negro Remix)
Natural Wild - Hot & Sexable
Chris Spedding - Wild Wild Women
Penguin Cafe Orchestra - Organum
The Los Angeles Gospel Choir - The Times They Are A’ Changin’
Hollie Cook - Sweet Like Chocolate
Ernest Ranglin - Surfin’
Owain K - Touched
Buzzcocks - A Different Kind Of Tension
Strong Asian Mothers - All I Do
Laura Veirs - Lightning Rod
Burnier & Cartier - Barranco
Jack Ashford - Las Vegas Strut
Lust & Fury - I Gave You All
Wye Oak - Lifer
Ned Doheny - Think Like A Lover (Magic Wand Remix)
Diamond D - Best Kept Secret
Doc Severinsen - I Wanna Be With You
Ray Mang - Number One
The Drifters - You Got To Pay Your Dues
Johnny Jenkins - Leaving Trunk
Wally Badarou - Lady Finger Blue
Seka - Hanging Gardens
Change - Hold Tight (LNTG Remix)
Tune-Yards - Heart Attack
Charles Mann - Do It Again
Jex - Zone Phased
Funkadelic - You Can’t Miss What You Can’t Measure (Alton Miller Remix)
David Frost And Billy Taylor - Bright Star In The East (Reprise)

Thursday 20 December 2018

Archive On 4: Elvis Presley Comeback Special

ARCHIVE ON 4: ELVIS PRESLEY COMEBACK SPECIAL (320kbs-m4a/130mb/57mins)
BBC Radio 4 broadcast: 1st December 2018

Paul Morley tells a parallel story of Elvis and America, from the vantage point of the King's finest hour in 1968.

"I've got to do this sooner or later," Elvis says sheepishly, "so I may as well do it now."

And so the 1968 Comeback Special begins: his quiff defying gravity and his leather jumpsuit chafing, as he bursts into an elemental rendition of Heartbreak Hotel. It had been one of his first singles thirteen years before, initially recorded when he was still a teenager living in the Jim Crow South at the beginning of rock and roll.

Much had happened in the meantime: JFK, the Beatles, the hippies and Detroit soul. And Elvis had become a different person, depressed, addicted and increasingly irrelevant.

So by 1968, after his stint in the army, the uninspired films and the years of absence from the stage, the Comeback Special was an opportunity to resuscitate Elvis's career, to claw back his status as a powerful, credible force.

And it did, fleetingly. He was fabulous, and his discography is never better showcased than on that day.

But it also marked the point at which it became clear that the King was fragile.

He was thirty-three, a new father, and he would never be this good again.

Paul Morley believes the 1968 Comeback Special shows us Elvis at his best. But also that it offers a vantage point from which to look backwards, forwards and outwards to a changing America - remembering where the hillbilly kid had come from and poignantly aware of where he would end up.

Featuring historian Mary Frances Berry, filmmaker Eugene Jarecki, writer Luc Sante and theatre artist Greg Wohead.

Producer: Martin Williams.

Wednesday 19 December 2018

Archive On 4: Joni Mitchell Taught Me How To Feel

ARCHIVE ON 4: JONI MITCHELL TAUGHT ME HOW TO FEEL (320kbs-m4a/130mb/57mins)
BBC Radio 4 broadcast: 24th November 2018

Music writer and broadcaster Ann Powers explores Joni Mitchell’s impact on her fans and on songwriting.

"Even the songs of hers I’ve heard a thousand times can still give me the weird feeling that she knows me personally," she says.

In the month of Joni Mitchell’s 75th birthday, Ann Powers considers what it is about her music that speaks to people in this way. And how does this emotional connectedness square with an artist who has constantly shape-shifted, who is full of contradictions? She’s a master lyricist who dislikes most poetry. Her words challenged who women were supposed to be, who they could be, and yet she bristled against feminism. And when she’s had such a powerful effect on so many listeners, why has she only had one top 20 hit?

Through excerpts from live BBC recordings from the late 1960s and 70s, and the conversations Joni Mitchell recorded in the same period with broadcaster Malka Marom, we travel across a decade of her music. From the familiar territory of songs like Woodstock, we reach the wilder, exploratory sounds of her late 70s work, via some of her most critically acclaimed albums from earlier that decade - Blue, Court and Spark, The Hissing of Summer Lawns and Hejira.

Writers and critics Linda Grant, Sean O’Hagan, Jessica Hopper and Barney Hoskyns reflect on the rapid evolution of Joni Mitchell’s musical and lyrical approach, alongside the memories of some of those who’ve been closest to her -: songwriter and former lover Graham Nash, bassist and ex-husband Larry Klein, and longstanding friend Malka Marom.

With thanks to Malka Marom and the Thomas Fisher Rare Books Library at the University of Toronto, for sharing clips Joni Mitchell’s conversation with Malka Marom.

Producer: Chris Elcombe
A Just Radio production for BBC Radio 4.

Tuesday 18 December 2018

Archive On 4: Making Obama

ARCHIVE ON 4: MAKING OBAMA (320kbs-m4a/131mb/57mins)
BBC Radio 4 broadcast: 3rd November 2018

Former President Barack Obama - along with friends, mentors, and rivals - reflects on the story of his climb from community leader in Chicago to the start of the long road to the presidency of the United States.

Earlier this year, political reporter Jenn White analysed President Obama's rise in forensic detail for a six-part podcast series produced by Chicago public radio station WBEZ. For this edition of Archive on 4, she reflects on the experience, and presents this specially re-versioned programme.

Jenn begins by charting Obama's roots in Chicago as a community leader, assessing the people and movements that honed his leadership skills. We hear how he overcame entrenched racism in Chicago politics, taking direct inspiration from then city mayor, Harold Washington.

By the time Obama graduated from Harvard Law School, he had met Michelle Robinson and been offered jobs by all the big law firms. He also ran Project Vote, registering voters in Illinois, and started work on his autobiography.

With a combination of skill, ambition, connections and luck, Obama finally emerged onto the national stage during his 2004 campaign for the US Senate. The implosion of two opponents' campaigns, along with Obama's powerful keynote address at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, helped put him on the eventual path to the presidency.

Produced by Colin McNulty for WBEZ and David Prest
A Whistledown production in association with WBEZ for BBC Radio 4.

Monday 17 December 2018

Archive On 4: Who's Your Father, Referee?

ARCHIVE ON 4: WHO'S YOUR FATHER, REFEREE? (320kbs-m4a/130mb/57mins)
BBC Radio 4 broadcast: 13th October 2018

Clive Anderson explores the reasons behind the apparent decline in the level of respect shown to the football referee and asks - amid all the abuse, death threats and endless scrutiny and criticism - who on earth would want to be a referee.

He searches through the archives for evidence of a golden age in which the referee's decision was final, and traces the various changes in the game which appear to have fuelled the problems for referees. When and why did things turn so ugly?

Top referees, commentators, sports journalists and former players discuss how television coverage, slow motion cameras and endless analysis by pundits have contributed to the growing pressures on the man in the middle. They argue about who is blame for undermining the authority of referees - over-paid players, aggressive managers or the media. Do the referees contribute to their own problem, by making too many mistakes or being overly officious?

Former professional referee Dermot Gallagher says that, despite high-profile incidents and worrying accounts of violence against referees in parks football, there has never been a better time to be a referee.

Rugby, cricket and other sports are not without their problems in this area, but why does the situation appear to be so acute in football? Sports sociologist, Dr Richard Elliot considers whether behaviour towards sports officials reflect changes in attitudes towards authority in wider society.

An Above the Title production for BBC Radio 4.

Sunday 16 December 2018

Thom Yorke - Late Junction Mixtape

THOM YORKE - LATE JUNCTION MIXTAPE 08.11.18 (320kbs-m4a/69mb/30mins)
BBC Radio 3 broadcast: 8th November 2018

Composer, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Thom Yorke compiles a mixtape.

Yorke made his name in alternative-rock band Radiohead in the 1990s. Their electronic forays became increasingly experimental in the early 2000s, and Yorke has continued to work with electronic textures as a solo artist and collaborator with the likes of Four Tet and Flying Lotus. He composes for film and theatre, and his first feature-film soundtrack is released this autumn.

Yorke’s mixtape reflects his immersion in electronic music across the generations, from Pierre Henry through Aphex Twin to Mars89, as well as his love of experimental vocal techniques, mixing in a classic work by Stockhausen, and krautrockers Faust.

Produced by Jack Howson for Reduced Listening.

Ben Vida - Damaged Particulates [Shelter Press]
Faust - Exercise - With Voices [ReR Megacorp]
Karlheinz Stockhausen - Gesang Der Jünglinge [Deutsche Grammophon]
Carl Stone - Shing Kee [Unseen Worlds‎]
Mars89 - End Of The Death [Bokeh Versions]
Bernard Parmegiani - Conjugaison Du Timbre [INA-GRM]
Aphex Twin - Disk Aud1_12 [Warp]
The Beacon Sound Choir - Drone 3 [First Terrace]
Pierre Henry - Astrology [Ducretet-Thomson (London)]
Alvin Lucier - Criss-Cross / Hanover [Black Truffle]
Faust - Untitled [Virgin]


Intro (320kbs-m4a/9mb/4mins)
Outro (320kbs-m4a/5mb/2mins)

Saturday 15 December 2018

Ryuichi Sakamoto - Late Junction Mixtape

RYUICHI SAKAMOTO - LATE JUNCTION MIXTAPE 01.11.18 (320kbs-m4a/75mb/32mins)
BBC Radio 3 broadcast: 1st November 2018

Pioneering Japanese composer and experimental electronic musician Ryuichi Sakamoto compiles a mixtape of his musical favourites and discusses his life and legacy with Nick Luscombe.

A founding member of Yellow Magic Orchestra, he is often credited as one of the forefathers of techno, hip-hop and electronic music. Over the last four decades he has produced an immense and varied amount of groundbreaking and influential records, from solo piano work and experimental ambient soundscapes to collaborations with David Sylvian, Robert Wyatt and Iggy Pop.

He is an award-winning composer for films including Love Is the Devil, The Revenant and Bernardo Bertolucci’s The Last Emperor for which he received an Academy Award. He has also appeared in films as an actor, most notably in Merry Christmas, Mr. Lawrence with David Bowie.

In 2017 Sakamoto released Async, his first solo album in eight years, which he made during his recovery from throat cancer.

Produced by Katie Callin for Reduced Listening.

Antônio Carlos Jobim - O Bôto (Porpoise) [Warner Bros.]
György Ligeti - Piano Concerto (1985-88) - 1. Vivace molto ritmico e preciso - attacca subito [Decca]
Actress & London Contemporary Orchestra - Chasing Numbers [Ninja Tune]
Neu! - Isi [Brain]
Barbara - Göttingen [Philips]
Jan Jelinek - Alice Schwarzer, Is It True That You're A Person Of Great Tenacity? [Faitiche]
Yoshio Machida - SYNTHI n°01 [Baskaru]
Maurice Duruflé - Requiem, Op. 9 (1961 version) 1. Introit [Naxos]
Kareem Lotfy - Fr3sh [PAN]


Intro/Interview (320kbs-m4a/48mb/21mins)
Outro (320kbs-m4a/15mb/6mins)

Friday 14 December 2018

Sound Of Cinema - 225. Robin Hood

SOUND OF CINEMA - 225. ROBIN HOOD (320kbs-m4a/135mb/59mins)
BBC Radio 3 broadcast: 24th November 2018

Cinema's consistent love affair with the Robin Hood legend spawns a new film this week, "Robin Hood", starring Taron Egerton in the title role and with music by Joseph Trapanese - another take on the timeless myth of the man who took from the rich to give to the poor. Matthew Sweet examines Robin Hood's screen history and looks at how screen composers have portayed the legend in music.

With music by John Barry, Geoffrey Burgon, Dorothy Carwithen and Korngold's Oscar winning score to the 1938 Errol Flynn classic.

Carl Sigman - The Adventures Of Robin Hood (1955-59) - Closing Theme [TVT]
Victor Schertzinger - Robin Hood (1922)
Doreen Carwithen - Men Of Sherwood Forest (1954) - Overture [Dutton Epoch]
Gary Hughes - A Challenge For Robin Hood (1967)
George Bruns - Robin Hood (1973) - The Archery Affair [Walt Disney]
Unknown - Robin Hood Junior (1975) - Library Music
Geoffrey Burgon - Robin Hood (1991) - Death Of Folcanet / The Wedding [Silva Screen]
Michael Kamen - Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves (1991) - Sir Guy Of Gisborne And The Escape [Morgan Creek]
Marc Streitenfeld - Robin Hood (2010) - Pact Sworn In Blood / Planting The Fields / Sherwood Forest [Varèse Sarabande]
John Barry - Robin And Marian (1976) - The Ride To Sherwood; John Bursts In / The End [Silva Screen]
Erich Wolfgang Korngold - The Adventures Of Robin Hood (1938) - The Fight, Victory And Epilogue [Chandos]
Joseph Trapanese - Robin Hood (2018) - Loxley Manor [Sony Classical]
Vladimir Vysotsky - The Arrows Of Robin Hood (1975)
Thom Yorke - Suspiria (2018) - Suspirium [XL Recordings]

Thursday 13 December 2018

Sound Of Cinema - 224. Magic

SOUND OF CINEMA - 224. MAGIC (320kbs-m4a/134mb/58mins)
BBC Radio 3 broadcast: 17th November 2018

Matthew Sweet takes the theme of magic for his exploration of film music this week to tie in with the release of "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald".

Paul Dukas - Fantasia (1939) - The Sorcerer's Apprentice [Walt Disney]
Brian Tyler - Now You See Me 2 (2016) - Fanfare [Varese Sarabande]
Howard Shore - Hugo (2011) - Papa Georges Made Movies [Howe]
Philip Glass - The Illusionist (2006) - Main Theme [Ryko Filmworks]
Jerry Goldsmith - Magic (1978) - Main Titles [La-La Land]
John Williams - The Witches Of Eastwick (1987) - The Dance Of The Witches [Collector's Choice]
Graeme Revell - The Craft (1996) - Invocation [Varese Sarabande]
Alan Silvestri - Practical Magic (1998) - Amas Veritas [Reprise]
John Scott - Satan's Slave (1976) - Titles [Moscovitch Music]
John Scott - Satan's Slave (1976) - Evil Elevator [Moscovitch Music]
Matti Bye - Häxan (1922)
James Bernard - The Devil Rides Out (1968) - The Power Of Evil [Silva Screen]
John Williams - Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone (2001) - Hedwig's Theme [Warner Sunset]
Alexandre Desplat - Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 1 (2010) - Obliviate [Sony Music]
Nicholas Hooper - Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince (2009) - In Noctem [Decca]
John Williams - Harry Potter And The Chamber Of Secrets (2002) - The Chamber Of Secrets [Warner Sunset]
Howard Greenfield - Bewitched (1964) - TV Theme [Silva Screen]
James Newton Howard - Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald (2018) - The Thestral Chase [Sony Classical]

Wednesday 12 December 2018

Sound Of Cinema - 221. Video Game Music

SOUND OF CINEMA - 221. VIDEO GAME MUSIC (320kbs-m4a/134mb/59mins)
BBC Radio 3 broadcast: 27th October 2018

Matthew Sweet presents a special programme from the current "Video Games: Design/Play/Disrupt" exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London exploring the nature and function of modern video gaming music.

Matthew is joined by curator Kristian Volsing and composer and gaming expert Stephen Baysted ("ProjectCARS; "World Of Speed"; Need For Speed: Shift") to discover more about composing music for the medium, the function of music in games, and the current state of gaming itself. Including:

Journey (Austin Wintory)
The Last of Us (Gustavo Santaolalla)
No Man's Sky (65DaysofStatic)
Overwatch (Derek Duke/Neal Acree)
Assassins Creed III, SimsAnimals (Winifred Phillips)
Zelda (Koji Kondo)
Cuphead (Kristofer Maddigan)
Red Dead Redemption (Woody Jackson)

Koji Kondo - Legend Of Zelda (1986) - Suite [X5 Music Group]
Gustavo Santaolalla - The Last Of Us (2013) - Title Theme [Naughty Dog]
Derek Duke - Overwatch (2016) - Overture / Rally Of The Heroes [Blizzard Entertainment]
65DaysofStatic - No Man's Sky (2016) - Heliosphere [Laced]
Austin Wintory - Journey (2012) - Apotheosis [Sumthing Else Music Works]
Winifred Phillips - Assassin's Creed III: Liberation (2012) - Main Theme [Ubisoft Music]
Stephen Baysted - Project Cars 2 (2015) - Guts And Glory (Radio Edit) [Redrocca]
Richard Jacques - James Bond 007: Blood Stone (2010) - M Puts Her Trust In Bond
Kristofer Maddigan - Cuphead (2017) - Don't Deal With The Devil / One Hell Of A Time [StudioMDHR Entertainment Inc.]
Bill Elm - Red Dead Redemption (2010) - Theme [Rockstar Games]

Tuesday 11 December 2018

Friction - Essential Mix

FRICTION - ESSENTIAL MIX 10.11.18 (320kbs-m4a/276mb/2hrs)
BBC Radio 1 broadcast: 10th November 2018


The Shogun Audio and Elevate boss returns to Radio 1 with a brand new two hour mix.

Friction - Connections (Essential Mix Edit) x All Nite
Friction & Dimension - UltraFunk x Whipslap (feat. Metrik)
Camo & Krooked & TC - If Else
Friction - Killing Me (Feat. Rothwell) [Elevate]
Flowidus - Kids In The Club
Knife Party & Mob Tactics - LRAD (The Prototypes Remix VIP) x Bigfoot
CamelPhat & Au/Ra - Panic Room (Culture Shock Remix) [Loudmouth Music Limited]
Kanine - Dubplate Soldier
Protoje - Who Knows (Shy FX Remix) [Mr Bongo]
Turno - Asylum [Elevate]
Turno & S.P.Y. - Benicassim x Rock Da House
Kings Of The Rollers - Rave Alarm VIP
John Holt - Police In Helicopter (Benny L Remix)
Kanine - Shadows VIP [Subway Soundz]
Wilkinson & Dimension & Dossa & Locuzzed - Rush x Afterglow x Shag VIP
Matrix & Futurebound & Kanine - Ear Drum x Untitled
Dossa & Locuzzed & Upgrade - Grains VIP x Popular
Friction - Forever Dub (Feat. Kiko Bun) [Elevate]
Turno - Invaderz VIP x Bomb Squad (AMC Remix)
Fatboy Slim - Right Here Right Now (Friction & Killer Hertz Remix) [Elevate]
Adam F - Circles (Pola & Bryson Bootleg)
Sigma & High Contrast - Paint It Black x If We Ever (Unglued Remix)
Rockwell - User [Shogun Audio]
deadmau5 & B-Complex - Avaritia (Dimension Remix) x Beautiful Lies
Pendulum & Bushbaby - Hold Your Colour (Noisia Remix) x Sonder (Document One Remix)
Benny L - Low Blow VIP [Metalheadz Platinum]
Photek - Age Of Empires [Metalheadz]
Document One - Hard Eggs
Alix Perez - SWRV
Metrik & Cyantific - We Got It (S.P.Y. Remix) x Ice Cream (Vanilla Mix)
Killer Hertz - The Unknown
坊 & Chase & Status - Retreat x Poison (Unglued Bootleg)
Faithless & Chase & Status - Insomniac (Turno Bootleg) x No Problem VIP
TC - Tap Ho (Hamilton Remix) [Don't Play]
T>I & Upgrade - Shot Down
Dawn Wall - Emblem Of The Sun
Friction & JP Cooper - Dancing (Dawn Wall Remix) [Elevate]
Dub Motion - Jungle Fever [Co-Lab Recordings]
Unknown - Untitled
The Prodigy & Bad Company - Need Some1 (Friction Remix) x Nitrous (Dillinja Remix)
Original Sin - Therapy [Drum&BassArena]
Netsky - Tequila Limonada (The Prototypes Remix)
Chris Lake - I Want You (1991 Remix) [OWSLA]
Fracture - Loving Touch [Exit]
Top Cat - Ruffest Gun Ark (Chase & Status Mix)
Nas & Kanye West & The Dream - Everything (Missing & Axiomatic Bootleg)
Commix - Be True [Metalheadz]
Calibre & Marcus Intalex - Highlander x Outer Space
Sampha - Kisses (DnB Bootleg) [XL Recordings]
Noisia - Motion Blur (DLR Remix) [Vision Recordings]
Eric Prydz - Breathe (SubFocus Remix)
Friction & Camo & Krooked & Jonny L - Stand Up VIP x Back To Your Roots (Friction & K-Tee Remix)
Spor & SubFocus - Aztec x Swamp Thing
Friction & The Prodigy - Running x Voodoo People (Pendulum Remix)
Friction - Stinker (Feat. Riko Dan & Tantrum Desire) [Elevate]
Unknown - Untitled
Stakka & Skynet & Konflict - Biosfear [Underfire]
SubFocus - X Ray (Metrik Remix) [RAM]
Kanine - Bloody Knuckles VIP [Low Down Deep Recordings]
Dillinja & SpectraSoul & Bungle - I Wanna Know x Untitled Horn x Cocooned VIP
SpectraSoul - Organiser (Circuits Remix)
Jonny L - See Red (Rene La Vice Bootleg)
Wilkinson - Decompression [RAM]
Dimension - Jet Black VIP [MTA]
DC Breaks - Vendetta (AMC & Turno Remix VIP)
Upgrade - All This Molly
Mob Tactics - Forever You
Culture Shock & dBridge - Bunker x Tru Romance
AMC - Mind The Gap [Titan]
TWENTY ØNE PILØTS & Macky Gee - Heathens x Tour
DJ Zinc & Chris Lorenzo - Gammy Elbow (DJ Zinc Remix) [Bingo Bass]
Cyantifix & SubFocus - Cyborg VIP x Timewarp VIP
Wilkinson - Take You Higher [RAM]
Friction - Mad In The Jungle (Killer Hertz Remix) [Elevate]
Original Sin - Never Say Die
Friction - Commotion (Feat. Jem Cooke) [Elevate]

Monday 10 December 2018

Chase & Status With MC Dynamite - Essential Mix Live On The Eye!

CHASE & STATUS WITH MC DYNAMITE - ESSENTIAL MIX LIVE ON THE EYE! 03.11.18 (320kbs-m4a/275mb/2hrs)
BBC Radio 1 broadcast: 3rd November 2018


Previewing their new RTRN II JUNGLE album celebrating the sounds of 90s jungle, Chase & Status and MC Dynamite take to the London Eye to drop two hours of jungle bangers!

Chase & Status Feat. Cutty Ranks - Retreat
High Contrast - If We Ever (Unglued Remix)
>>Capone - Friday
Chase & Status Feat. Burro Banton - Delete
Traumatize - Gas Dem
>>Ed Rush & Optical - Medicine (Matrix Remix)
Need For Mirrors - Pagans
>>Origin Unknown - Nightflight
Dr. Meaker Feat. Romaine Smith - Remedy (Serum & Dr. Meaker Remix)
Shy FX Feat. Kate Stewart & Mr. Williams - Badboy Business
Chase & Status - Strictly Ital
Chase & Status - Bubbling
Ray Keith - Dark Soldier (Benny L Remix)
Chase & Status Feat. Mr. Vegas - Big Man Skank VIP
Traumatize - Stereo Yute
Bou - Fever
DJ Die - Autumn
Chase & Status Feat. MC Fats - Step Away
Rockwell - User
>>DJ Die - Special Treat
Dub Phizix Feat. Strategy - Marka
>>Ed Rush & Optical - Watermelon
S.P.Y. - Rock The House
Chase & Status Feat. Natty Campbell - Cool & Crisp
>>Andy C & Shimon - Quest (Chase & Status VIP)
Serum - Phenomenon
Chase & Status - Burning
G Dub - Tink Ya Bad (Remix)
Chase & Status Feat. Kabaka Pyramid - Murder Music
King Of The Rollers - Rave Alarm
S.P.Y. - Grey Days
Breakage - Rudeboy Stuff
LTJ Bukem - Music
Roni Size - Western
Shy FX - This Style
DMD & The Boneman - Sweet Vibrations
Chase & Status Feat. General Levy - Heater
Roni Size - Brown Paper Bag
Chase & Status - Original Business
Mask - Cash Till
Chase & Status - Time Flies
Red Light Feat. Simpleton - Coca Cola Bottle Shape
Congo Natty - Junglist
DJ Hype Feat. MC Fats - Peace Love & Unity
Top Cat - Ruffest Gunark (Chase & Status Remix)
Chase & Status - Love Theme
Chase & Status - Tribute
Chase & Status Feat. Liam Bailey - Blind Faith (Loadstar Remix)
>>MA2 - Hearing Is Believing
Chase & Status - Disaster
Benny L & Shimon - Yeti
Origin Unknown - Valley Of The Shadows (Chase & Status Remix)
>>Loadstar - Artisan VIP
Chase & Status Feat. Takura - Streetlife
Chase & Status - Dun Dem
Jubei & Marcus Intalex - Fanny's Your Aunt
>>DJ Hype - Closer To God
Chase & Status Feat. Masicka - Weed & Rum

Sunday 9 December 2018

Brian Blessed's Radio Adventures

BRIAN BLESSED'S RADIO ADVENTURES (320kbs-m4a/410mb/2hrs58mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 27th October 2018

Arthur Bostrom meets with Brian Blessed to celebrate the adventurer's remarkable life and career as presented on radio.

A giant of a man accompanied by an eloquent wit and booming, operatic voice the boisterous British actor Brian Blessed is known for his hearty, king-sized portrayals on film and TV, however what is often overlooked is his fascinating career in radio.

There are over 40 years of recordings in the BBC radio archives, including hilarious interviews, dramas, poetry readings and panel shows. He's presented Down Your Way, appeared on the nature series Sounds Natural and hosted his own radio show. As a regular guest Brian Blessed has been interviewed on a diverse number of subjects and memorably on BBC Radio 4's Midweek revealing how he helped to deliver a baby in a South London park.

With an enthusiastic audience at the BBC Radio Theatre in London, Arthur introduces extracts and programmes from Brian's radio years to build an enthralling and unique insight into the actor and explorer's life. In in his own irreverent style Brian reveals a passion for radio which has rarely been discussed.

Programmes include:

* Down Your Way: Stratford Shakespeare
Actor Brian Blessed was to have gone to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford straight after drama school. Instead he joined Z Cars and was unable to do a Season until 1984, he returns in this episode from 1991.

* Sounds Natural:
Brian Blessed discusses with Derek Jones his interest in wildlife & mountaineering & chooses some recordings from the BBC's Sound Archive, in an episode from 1975.

* Outlook - Galahad of Everest:
Brian Blessed talks to John Waite about his expedition to climb Everest in the footsteps of George Mallory.

* The Brian Blessed Show:
A programme from 1988 where Brian Blessed talks to theatre critic Jack Tinker about his career.

Producer: Stephen Garner

Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in October 2016.

Saturday 8 December 2018

The Changing Sound Of Radio

THE CHANGING SOUND OF RADIO (320kbs-m4a/409mb/2hrs58mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 13th October 2018

Since he was first given a tape recorder in 1967, Wildlife sound recordist Chris Watson has been fascinated by the possibilities of sound. In this programme he revisits that first tape recorder, demonstrates cutting edge recording & editing equipment, and tells the story of the technological advances in radio from the first outside broadcast, through the Radiophonic Workshop and to the current explosion in podcasting.

We hear from some of Chris' favourite broadcasters, dip into his collection of sound recordings, and hear programmes from the world of podcasting & Sound Art Radio as well as classics from the BBC Archive.

Programmes include:

* Orchestra Under The Waves
A unique musical compilation made of sounds recorded under water, presented by Evelyn Glennie.

* The Ditch
Afternoon drama by Paul Evans about a Wildlife sound recordist who goes missing, leaving some intriguing recordings behind...

* Fifteen Inches Per Second
Documentary about the use of quarter inch tape.

* The Iron Speaks - When The Far Becomes Near
Creative documentary about radio broadcasting in the United Arab Emirates, produced by Christopher John Weaver and Fari Bradley. Contributors include Dr Zaki Nussaibeh, Salim Obaid Al Alelee, Dr Yousef Aydabi and Dr. Arif Al Sheikh. Voiceovers were by Frank Key, William English & Bijan Daneshmand.

The programme originally aired as part of Six Pillars, on Resonance FM

* Six House Parties
An episode of the podcast 'Imaginary Advice', created by the poet and performer Ross Sutherland.

Presenter: Chris Watson
Producer: Jessica Treen

Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in 2018.

Friday 7 December 2018

China Crisis - Live Reading University 1984

CHINA CRISIS - LIVE READING UNIVERSITY 1984 (320kbs-m4a/113mb/49mins)
BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 20th October 2018

China Crisis - Hanna Hanna (Reprise)
China Crisis - No More Blue Horizons
China Crisis - Wishful Thinking
China Crisis - Papua
China Crisis - Red Sails
China Crisis - Christian
China Crisis - Seven Sports For All
China Crisis - Tragedy And Mystery
China Crisis - The Soul Awakening
China Crisis - African And White
China Crisis - Working With Fire And Steel
China Crisis - Hanna Hanna

Thursday 6 December 2018

China Crisis - Radio 1 Session 16th May 1982

CHINA CRISIS - RADIO 1 SESSION 16.05.82 (320kbs-m4a/30mb/13mins)
BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 16th May 2018

China Crisis - Animals And Judges
China Crisis - Hanna Hanna
China Crisis - You'll Never See It
China Crisis - Reflections

Wednesday 5 December 2018

The Teardrop Explodes - Peel Session 16th April 1980

THE TEARDROP EXPLODES - PEEL SESSION 16.04.80 (320kbs-m4a/29mb/12mins)
BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 5th July 2018

The Teardrop Explodes - The Thief Of Bagdad
The Teardrop Explodes - When I Dream
The Teardrop Explodes - Poppies In The Field

Tuesday 4 December 2018

Wah! - Peel Session 14th February 1983

WAH! - PEEL SESSION 14.02.83 (TX - 13.04.83) (320kbs-m4a/39mb/17mins)
BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 14th February 2018

Wah! - Silver And Gold
Wah! - Sleep (Lullaby For Josie)
Wah! - Year Of Decision
Wah! - Hope (I Wish You'd Believe Me)

Monday 3 December 2018

Wah! - Peel Session 19th May 1980

WAH! - PEEL SESSION 19.05.80 (TX - 10.06.80) (320kbs-m4a/30mb/13mins)
BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 19th May 2018

Wah! - Other Boys
Wah! - Some Say
Wah! - Don't Step On The Cracks

Sunday 2 December 2018

Ursula K Le Guin - Earthsea Series 2

URSULA K LE GUIN - EARTHSEA SERIES 2 (320kbs-m4a/378mb/2hrs44mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 15th to 22nd October 2018

Ursula K Le Guin's enduring fantasy saga - based on the novel Tehanu adapted by Judith Adams.

Published between 1968 and 2001, the five novels and short story collection of Ursula K Le Guin's Earthsea cycle (A Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan, The Farthest Shore, Tehanu, The Other Wind and Tales from Earthsea) are re-told across 12 episodes. In the first series, the first three novels were re-told, and series two takes in Tehanu, The Other Wind and the short story Dragonfly.

As a girl, Tenar, was taken from her home and family on the island of Atuan to become Arha, the Priestess Ever Reborn, guardian of the ominous Tombs of Atuan. Deep within the Tombs, Ged and Tenar met and became unlikely allies, escaped from Atuan, and brought peace to the troubled archipelago. Now in her late middle age, widowed and with grown up children, Tenar runs a farm on the island of Gont. She has not seen Ged for many years.

Ged was born on Gont, with innate magical talent and a reckless nature. He trained in wizardry on the island Roke, where he released a terrible shadow into the world and then risked his life to restore the balance. He grew to become Archmage on Roke and the greatest wizard on all of Earthsea. When the evil wizard Cob attempted to cheat death and live forever, Ged found him and closed the breach between life and death. In doing so, he lost his powers of magic.

Set on a vast archipelago of islands, where magic is a central part of life, they tell the stories of Tenar and Ged.

Original music by Jon Nicholls.

Directed by Sasha Yevtushenko.

Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra.

EARTHSEA SERIES 2 - 1. A BAD THING (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 15th October 2018

On the island of Gont, Tenar saves a remarkable young girl from certain death. She also makes a dangerous enemy.

Tenar ..... Nina Wadia
Ogion ..... Michael Bertenshaw
Tehanu ..... Laura Elphinstone
Therru ..... Rosie Boore
Moss ..... Elizabeth Counsell
Aspen ..... John Lightbody
Handy ..... Ryan Early
Therru's father ..... Stephen Hogan
Clearbrook ..... Sean Murray
Kalessin ..... Emma Handy
Senini ..... Lauren Cornelius
Apple ..... Kerry Gooderson
Fisherman ..... Ryan Whittle

EARTHSEA SERIES 2 - 2. TENAR (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 16th October 2018

Ged returns to the island of Gont on the back of a dragon. Meanwhile, the curse afflicting Tenar gathers force.

Tenar ..... Nina Wadia
Ged ..... Robert Glenister
Therru ..... Rosie Boore
Moss ..... Elizabeth Counsell
Aspen ..... John Lightbody
Fan ..... Sean Murray
Courtier ..... Ryan Whittle
Courtier ..... Stephen Hogan

EARTHSEA SERIES 2 - 3. TEHANU (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 17th October 2018

On the run, Tenar and Therru find shelter on the royal ship. But it will take a dragon to finally rid them of their foes.

Tenar ..... Nina Wadia
Ged ..... Robert Glenister
Tehanu ..... Laura Elphinstone
Therru ..... Rosie Boore
King Lebannen ..... Steven Robertson
Moss ..... Elizabeth Counsell
Aspen ..... John Lightbody
Kalessin .....  Emma Handy
Handy ..... Ryan Early
Therru's father ..... Stephen Hogan
Apple ..... Kerry Gooderson
Sailor ..... Sean Murray
Spark ..... Joseph Ayre

EARTHSEA SERIES 2 - 4. THE MENDER (320kbs-m4a/63mb/28mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 18th October 2018

Alder, a man tormented by his dreams, seeks out the reclusive Archmage on the island of Gont.

Tehanu ..... Laura Elphinstone
Ged ..... Robert Glenister
Azver ..... Narinder Samra
Alder ..... Tom Vanson
Thorion ..... Sam Dale
Woman ..... Elizabeth Counsell
Sailor ..... Ryan Early
Fishwife ..... Emma Handy
Lily ..... Lauren Cornelius
Doorkeeper ..... Stephen Hogan

EARTHSEA SERIES 2 - 5. THE PRINCESS (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 19th October 2018

Dragons threaten the Inner Isles. Tenar and Tehanu have arrived on Havnor to give counsel to the King. The threat is far greater than they first thought.

Tehanu ..... Laura Elphinstone
Tenar ..... Nina Wadia
Azver ..... Narinder Samra
King Lebannen ..... Steven Robertson
Alder ..... Tom Vanson
Seserekh ..... Sabrina Sandhu
Tesla ..... Sean Murray
Kalessin ..... Emma Handy
Oak ..... Stephen Hogan
Lady Iyesa ..... Lauren Cornelius
Sailor ..... Ryan Early

EARTHSEA SERIES 2 - 6. CHILDREN OF FIRE AND EARTH (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 22nd October 2018

Kalessin, the eldest of dragons, brings a message to the people of Havnor. At last, the King and his council know what they must do: travel to the beating heart of all of Earthsea.

Tehanu ..... Laura Elphinstone
Tenar ..... Nina Wadia
Azver ..... Narinder Samra
King Lebannen ..... Steven Robertson
Alder ..... Tom Vanson
Ged ..... Robert Glenister
Seserekh ..... Sabrina Sandhu
Thorion ..... Sam Dale
Tesla ..... Sean Murray
Doorkeeper ..... Stephen Hogan

Saturday 1 December 2018

Ursula K Le Guin - Earthsea Series 1

URSULA K LE GUIN - EARTHSEA SERIES 1 (320kbs-m4a/378mb/2hrs44mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 5th to 12th October 2018

Ursula K Le Guin's enduring fantasy saga set on the magical archipelago rich with wizards and dragons. Made for BBC Radio 4 Extra.

Based on the novels A Wizard of Earthsea and The Tombs of Atuan by Ursula Le Guin. Adapted by Judith Adams.

Published between 1968 and 1972, the first three books of Ursula Le Guin's Earthsea cycle (A Wizard of Earthsea, The Tombs of Atuan, The Farthest Shore) are re-told across six intertwined episodes. Set on a vast archipelago of islands, where magic is a central part of life, they tell the stories of Ged and Tenar. Ged is a boy from the island of Gont, born with innate magical talent and a reckless nature, who releases a terrible shadow into the world and must risk everything in order to restore the balance. Tenar, a girl from the island of Atuan, is taken from her home and family to become Arha, the Priestess Ever Reborn, guardian of the ominous Tombs of Atuan. Deep within the Tombs, Ged and Tenar encounter one another and seek a way of bringing peace to the troubled archipelago.

Original music by Jon Nicholls.

Directed by Sasha Yevtushenko.


EARTHSEA SERIES 1 - 1. SHADOW (320kbs-m4a/63mb/28mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 5th October 2018

Hungry for power and knowledge, the young wizard Ged tampers with long-held secrets and releases a terrible shadow into the world. Meanwhile, Tenar is taken away from her home and family to become Arha, the guardian of the ominous Tombs of Atuan.

Ged ..... James McArdle
Tenar ..... Aysha Kala
Young Ged ..... Kasper Hilton-Hille
Young Tenar ..... Nishi Malde
Ogion ..... Paul Hilton
Manan ..... Zubin Varla
Thar ..... Souad Faress
Father ..... David Hounslow
Boy ..... Adam Thomas-Wright
Oarsman ..... Mark Edel-Hunt
Witch ..... Jessica Turner
Serret ..... Lucy Hutchinson
Shipmaster ..... Stephen Critchlow

Sound design by Caleb Knightley.

EARTHSEA SERIES 1 - 2. SCHOOLING (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 8th October 2018

The young mage Ged is sent to the school for wizards on Roke Island but his pride and recklessness prove fatal. Meanwhile on Atuan, Tenar struggles to understand her role as guardian of the ominous Tombs. Her first official task will fill her with horror.

Ged ..... James McArdle
Tenar ..... Aysha Kala
Young Ged ..... Kasper Hilton-Hillie
Young Tenar ..... Nishi Malde
Manan ..... Zubin Varla
Kossil ..... Souad Faress
Doorkeeper ..... Stephen Critchlow
Nemmerle ..... Sam Dale
Raven ..... Ayesha Antoine
Jasper ..... Richard Linnell
Vetch ..... Jack Kane
Hand ..... David Acton
Herbal ..... Mark Edel-Hunt
Gensher ..... David Hounslow
Dragon ..... Jessica Turner

EARTHSEA SERIES 1 - 3. LOOKFAR (320kbs-m4a/62mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 9th October 2018

At Roke School, Ged released a terrible shadow into the world when he recklessly cast a spell for summoning the dead. It nearly cost him his life then and now it hunts him wherever he goes. He must make a choice: keep running or turn around and become hunter himself.

Ged ..... James McArdle
Tenar ..... Aysha Kala
Ogion ..... Paul Hilton
Vetch ..... Will Howard
Dragon ..... Jessica Turner
Pechvarry ..... Mark Edel-Hunt
Ship's Master ..... Sam Dale
2nd Ship's Master ..... Stephen Critchlow
Raven ..... Syesha Antoine
Skiorh ..... David Hounslow
Jessel ..... Chris Pavlo

EARTHSEA SERIES 1 - 4. THE RING (320kbs-m4a/64mb/28mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 10th October 2018

When Tenar is chosen as high priestess to the ancient and nameless Powers of the Earth, everything is taken from her - home, family, even her name. She is now known only as Arha, the Eaten One, and guards the shadowy, labyrinthine Tombs of Atuan. Then Ged comes to steal the Tombs' greatest hidden treasure, the Ring of Erreth-Akbe. Tenar's duty is to protect the Ring, but Ged possesses the light of magic and tales of a world that Tenar has never known. Will she risk everything to escape from the darkness that has become her domain?

Ged ..... James McArdle
Tenar ..... Sysha Kala
Manan ..... Zubin Varla
Kossil ..... Souad Faress
Willow ..... Jessica Turner
Penthe ..... Ayesha Antoine

EARTHSEA SERIES 1 - 5. DRAGONFLY (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 11th October 2018

It's now over 20 years since the action of The Tombs of Atuan, and magic has gone out of Earthsea. Mages have forgotten their spells and the springs of wizardry have running dry. Ged, Dragonlord and now Archmage of Earthsea, sets out with a young prince to seek the source of the darkness.

Ged ..... Shaun Dooley
Tenar ..... Vineeta Rishi
Arren ..... Will Featherstone
Sailor ..... Jude Akudwudike
Doorkeeper ..... Stephen Critchlow
Summoner ..... Sam Dale
Sopli ..... Chris Pavlo
Hare ..... David Acton
Woman ..... Syesha Antoine
Egre ..... David Hounslow
Woman ..... Jessica Turner

EARTHSEA SERIES 1 - 6. THE OTHER EARTHSEA (320kbs-m4a/63mb/27mins)
BBC Radio 4 Extra broadcast: 12th October 2018

A strange plague is spreading over Earthsea and the springs of wizardry are drying up. Driven to seek out the source of the trouble, Archmage Ged has embarked on a perilous journey with young prince Arren. Their travels have taken them to a land cursed with a strange soul sickness, as they seek the man behind this darkness.

Ged ..... Shaun Dooley
Tenar ..... Vineeta Rishi
Arren ..... Will Featherstone
Cob ..... Toby Jones
Nilgu ..... Noma Dumezweni
Orm Ember ..... Ayesha Antoine

Friday 30 November 2018

Stuart Maconie's Freak Zone - Black Experimental Music

BBC Radio 6 Music broadcast: 21st October 2018

Stuart plays experimental music by black artists as part of 6 Music’s Black Power season honouring 1968, the year the revolution was televised. Featuring artists from 50 years ago and the present day - FKA Twigs, Archie Shepp and more.

Gil Scott‐Heron - The Revolution Will Not Be Televised [BGP]
Gaika - Immigrant Sons [Warp]
June Tyson & Yaziko - Astro Dark [Chinchin]
The Artistic Heritage Ensemble - Malcolm X [Katalyst Entertainment]
Vôdûn - Spirits Past [New Heavy Sounds]
Albert Ayler Quintet - Angels [ESP Disk]
Malcolm X & Keith LeBlanc - No Sell Out [Island]
David McKnight - Strong Men [Soul Jazz]
Klein - Apologise [Howling Owl]
Sons Of Kemet - My Queen Is Angela Davis [Impulse!]
Jlin - Black Origami [Planet Mu]
Hannah Catherine Jones - Owed To Summer Madness [The Surround]
Archie Shepp - Attica Blues [Verve/Impulse!]
Irreversible Entanglements - Enough [Anthem Recording Company]
Dean Blunt - The Narcissist (Feat. Inga Copeland) [Hippos In Tanks]
FKA Twigs - Lights On [Young Turks]
The Last Poets - When The Revolution Comes [Charly]
Oneness Of Juju - African Rhythms [Soul Jazz]
Trio Da Kali - Tita (Live Cerys Matthews 20/05/18)
Algiers - Walk Like A Panther [Matador]
John Coltrane - Africa [Doxy]