Thanks to the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
Have you ever wondered what drum and bass sounds like played by a classical pianist?
Start Here is a podcast that sets out to prove each and every genre deserves to be treated with the serious consideration one might more typically expect to be granted to the likes of classical music or jazz.
Each episode sees a genre expert join Alexis Ffrench, a classical-soul composer, producer and pianist to discuss the history and composition of that genre. The offering is broad. From gaming to garage, opera to emo, series two hits all the high notes of a medium as vast and complex as any.
If you’re after the basics, don’t fear. Series one did a great job of covering all of those and more, including classical, country and stadium pop.
The key to the series is Ffrench’s open mind and depth of knowledge. He has an instant technical grasp of what signifies each genre - the mechanics of the music itself - and translates this to the uninitiated with a clarity that still respects both the music and the listener’s intelligence. And all in a delightfully soft and smooth voice.
And it’s not all about the songs. The episode on drill centres on a fascinating discussion about the genre’s links to violence; whether that is warranted and what it means for those making it and enjoying it. Our guest here has been an expert witness in over twenty court cases where the prosecution has attempted to portray lyricism as a form of public confession.
It’s a really fascinating and valuable show. Each episode brings something totally different yet each is tied together by intelligent conversation about subjects that aren’t often treated with such respect. A wonderful music podcast that is about so much more.
