Nowadays, there’s pressure on artists to produce art that feels broad strokes. Pieces that aren’t specific to a place or time, with the hopes of it reaching the widest audience possible (i.e. the approach of producing “content”).

But what happens when an artist does the opposite? When they not only lean into where they’re from, but also unflinchingly share a life experience that’s hyper-specific to them and their community? For Irish singer-songwriter/visual artist David Balfe (aka For Those I Love), that endeavor has been second nature. But like all great artists, it hasn’t come without a cost, the act of pouring so much pain into works. The end result has been two uncompromising and exhilarating bodies of work, the Choice Prize winning self-titled/debut album (released in 2021) and his latest album, Carving A Stone (released this year). Across this episode, we chat about the depths of those works, how moments of light can seep into times of grief, and our beautiful relationships with his native Ireland.
As mentioned within the episode, you absolutely should listen to Four by Dave’s friend Paul S. Curran here via SoundCloud. You can also check out my old episode with Eloi Youssef here (thank you again to the people of The Netherlands for all the love this year!).

A major thing that I love about structuring these seasons is how, on the face of it, none of these guests have anything in common. Sure, they’re largely creatives, but they all make different music, come from different cities and countries….in some ways, you couldn’t find people who’re more different. And yet, with this second half of season 10, I’m reminded of how crucial imagination is in this life. How artists have many duties, one of which is to remind us of what is possible when we think beyond what’s in front of us.

That’s in essence what today’s guest is all about, Aneesa Strings. She’s an independent artist from Oakland, California, who embodies the best parts of jazz, soul, R&B, and hip-hop. A true student of the game, she’s the natural progression of artists like J Dilla, D’Angelo, and Erykah Badu; all while crafting her own lane and doing so in immense style. Across this episode, we chat about her story, why music means so much to her, and, as Ethan Hawke says about doing great work, “it doesn’t come for free.”

The word “imagination” has been on my mind a lot lately. As creatively invigorating as New York City can be, it, like anywhere else, is susceptible to feeling stifling and drab, especially when stuck in the motions of life. It’s times like these where my mind wanders to other places and other people, like today’s guest, my dear friend Dan Black. I’m convinced that if the word “imagination” could have a picture in the dictionary that it’d be ridiculously fitting to have Dan’s photo right on there. For over two decades, he’s pushed the boundaries of indie rock (with The Servant), redefined what pop music can be (see his solo album UN), and helped younger musicians build their own worlds as a music producer (enter French music phenomenon Louane). Oh, and did I mention how on his off-time he galavants across Europe with pioneering dance group Planet Funk as one of their singers?

If reading that made you wonder, “wait, how does this guy do ALL of that?” Well, don’t worry, Dan feels the exact same way. Hence, this episode you’re about to hear, a chat that explores Dan’s illustrious past, present and future as comprehensively as humanly possible.

On January 12th, Dan will be playing his first live show in years at POPUP! in Paris. You can get your tickets here.