Podcast Summary: All Of It – "Brandee Younger Performs Live From 'Gadabout Season'"
Podcast Information:
- Title: All Of It
- Host: Alison Stewart
- Description: ALL OF IT is a show about culture and its consumers, aiming to engage thinkers, doers, makers, and creators about the what and why of their work. It fosters a community centered around diverse perspectives, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of New York City.
Episode Overview: In this episode of All Of It, host Alison Stewart welcomes Brandi Younger, a harpist, composer, and bandleader, to discuss her latest album, "Gadabout Season." The episode delves into the creative process behind the album, the significance of the term "gadabout," the unique recording setup in Brandi's East Harlem apartment, and her role as the custodian of Alice Coltrane's harp. The conversation is interspersed with live performances from Brandi and her trio, providing listeners with an immersive musical experience.
1. Introduction to Brandi Younger and "Gadabout Season"
[00:38] Alison Stewart opens the episode by introducing Brandi Younger and her new album, "Gadabout Season," released in June. She highlights a unique aspect of the album: Brandi performs using a harp once played and owned by the legendary Alice Coltrane, of whom Brandi is now the custodian. Alison emphasizes the intimate nature of the album, recorded entirely in Brandi's East Harlem apartment with her band.
Notable Quote:
“Gadabout Season is out now. Please welcome the pride of Long Island, Brandi Younger.”
— Alison Stewart [00:38]
2. Live Performance and Band Introduction
The episode features a live performance of the album's title track, "Gat About Season." Following the performance, Brandi introduces her band members:
- Alan Mednard on drums
- Rashawn Carter on bass
Notable Quote:
“On drums, Queen's finest, Alan Mednard.”
— Brandi Younger [06:08]
3. Exploring the Meaning of "Gadabout"
Alison inquires about the origin of the term "gadabout." Brandi explains that it originated from a "word of the day" email during their tour. Initially uncertain of its meaning, especially in the UK where the term is less common and can carry different connotations, Brandi and her band embraced "gadabout" to represent finding joy intentionally amidst the challenges of life on the road.
Notable Quotes:
“I kept asking people while we were in Europe about it too, in the UK, and some people were like, oh, we don't know that word. We don't use that word.”
— Brandi Younger [07:09]
“It was really just about making an intentional decision to find some joy.”
— Brandi Younger [06:26]
4. "Gadabout Season" as a Diary Entry
Brandi conceptualized the album as a diary entry, aiming for the tracks to reflect a chronological and emotional journey. The recording process began upstate with her cousins and evolved into recording the entire album at home, allowing the band ample time to refine their sound without the constraints of studio schedules.
Notable Quote:
“I was really thinking of it as like a diary entry... But absolutely. And then it was intentional to not have words because I really wanted these feelings and emotions to be conveyed sonically.”
— Brandi Younger [07:57]
5. Creative Process and Recording in East Harlem
Recording in her East Harlem apartment provided Brandi with the mental space and freedom to explore her creativity extensively. This environment differed significantly from the frenetic pace of touring, allowing her to process her emotions and collaborate deeply with her band members.
Notable Quotes:
“It gave my brain a rest... to just create, literally.”
— Brandi Younger [08:48]
“We were able to lay into the music.”
— Brandi Younger [19:32]
6. Collaboration Dynamics with the Band
Brandi discusses the collaborative dynamics within her trio. Composing on the harp, she often engages in a "push and pull" with Rashawn Carter and Alan Mednard to balance her creative vision with the band's input. This negotiation ensures that each track authentically represents their collective artistry.
Notable Quotes:
“There was a lot of push and pull between the three of us in certain songs where I wanted this and then could you play it like this?”
— Brandi Younger [11:24]
“I could see now that the long process... helped me to process.”
— Brandi Younger [10:19]
7. Custodian of Alice Coltrane's Harp
A significant highlight of the conversation is Brandi's role as the custodian of Alice Coltrane's harp. She shares her deep connection with the instrument, which was restored by Lyon & Healy and played a pivotal role in the album's sound. Brandi emphasizes her commitment to honoring Coltrane's legacy while infusing her own voice into the music.
Notable Quotes:
“I have this incredible instrument, but now I'm sounding like myself... an extension of me.”
— Brandi Younger [17:16]
“I could completely be myself... We're on the road all the time. In too close quarters anyway, so.”
— Brandi Younger [20:50]
8. Authenticity Through Home Recording
Recording in her apartment without the presence of engineers or label executives allowed Brandi and her band to capture authentic performances. This setup fostered a comfortable and uninhibited environment, crucial for conveying genuine emotions through their music.
Notable Quotes:
“There were no outside influences... I could completely be myself.”
— Brandi Younger [20:18]
“We really had ample time to really lay into the music.”
— Brandi Younger [19:32]
9. Deep Dive into Specific Tracks
Brandi provides insights into specific tracks, such as "Breaking Point," which explores themes of anxiety through its contrasting bass lines. She also discusses "Be Back Later," a track characterized by a confrontational conversation dynamic, reflecting personal interactions.
Notable Quotes:
“I wanted it to be like anxiety full... We gotta meet in the middle somewhere here.”
— Brandi Younger [12:05]
“It's just the file name that we never changed. Do you. You're not buying that? ... Be Back Later.”
— Brandi Younger [21:00]
10. Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Throughout the episode, Brandi Younger articulates her dedication to creating music that resonates on a personal and collective level. "Gadabout Season" stands as a testament to intentional joy, authentic collaboration, and the seamless blending of historical legacy with contemporary artistry.
Notable Quote:
“It's real. I'm being honest here.”
— Brandi Younger [19:19]
Final Note: This episode of All Of It offers a comprehensive look into Brandi Younger's artistic journey, the intricate process behind "Gadabout Season," and the profound significance of cultural heritage embodied in Alice Coltrane's harp. Through heartfelt discussion and captivating performances, listeners gain an intimate understanding of the creative forces shaping contemporary culture.