Night Clerk Radio: Haunted Music Reviews

Support Night Clerk Radio on Patreon Signalwave is easily one of our favorite subgenres of Vaporwave. The genre’s focus on sample curation along with its critique of nostalgia and consumerism makes it an interesting cornerpoint to other subgenres such as Mallsoft. However, despite being such a rich topic for discussion, we’ve never dedicated an episode to it. So, join us as we dig into two recent excellent Signalwave albums that highlight the best aspects of the genre.Music SampledExit simulation by Infinity FrequenciesANIK TELESAT by CT57 CreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on Patreon It’s that time of year again. Dagon, the latest Lovecraft-inspired Cryo Chamber Collaboration, is out. Over twenty artists came together to produce this evocative and cinematic double album that perfectly captures the oceanic horror of the source material and invites the listener to sink deeper and deeper into its world. Our friend Caleb joins us to chat about this auditory journey. Music SampledDagon by Cryo Chamber Collaboration on BandcampDagon by Cryo Chamber Collaboration on YouTube Support Caleb!Delta Green: Dead ChannelsCaleb’s Link TreeCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonWe’re doing something a little different for the holidays! This episode we’re joined by Max from the Good Brews Bad Views podcast for a special holiday movie party. We’re watching the 1989 French horror film “Deadly Games (aka Dial Code Santa Claus)” and recording an audio commentary track to be enjoyed alongside the movie.If you want to skip the movie, then jump ahead to 1:36:40 to hear our thoughts on the film.Where to find Deadly GamesDeadly Games on AmazonDeadly Games on ShudderMusic SampledGo Easy On The Pepsi by 幽霊, T O G E T H E R!Support Max!Max on TwitterGood Brews Bad ViewsGood Brews Bad Views on PatreonGood Brews Bad Views on TwitterGood Brews Bad Views on InstagramRelatable Rolls - Max’s RPG Actual Play PodcastRelatable Rolls on TwitterRelatable Rolls on InstagramCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on Patreon What does it mean for a song to be danceable? Does being “danceable” mean anything or is it too broad and personal? Can the term be applied to vaporwave? We’re not sure if we actually answered any of these questions, but we are sure that they led us to discuss two amazing albums. One new and the other an absolute classic.Music SampledSyndicated Simulcast, Vol. 1 by YAMTAWinner's Circle (SAINT PEPSI Deluxe Edition) by SAINT PEPSIRelevant LinksRoss’s Inspiration: Recommendation Thread: Danceable Vaporwave Bangers on r/VaporwaveCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on Patreon Culture Jamming is a reactionary protest against media and consumerist culture that employs a wide range of tactics from photoshopping logos to vandalism and everything in between. There is no one right way to engage, one must merely push back against mass media on its own terms. On this episode we discuss our thoughts on culture jamming and how the practice relates to vaporwave and other haunted genres.Music SampledRejected Theme Song from READY PLAYER ONE by Demi Adejuyigbe Relevant LinksCulture Jamming, Memes, Social Networks, and the Emerging Media EcologyCulture Jamming and Meme-based CommunicationWhat Do You Mean By "Culture Jamming"?": An Interview with Moritz Fink and Marilyn DeLaure (Part One)Culture Jamming: Subversion as ProtestCulture jamming: ideological struggle and the possibilities for social changeNon-Fungible Future: The Memeing of Mark FisherCould Vaporwave Save Your Soul? CreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonAs we head into late autumn, with long winter nights ahead, we find ourselves in need of new music appropriate to the mood of the season. Long and languid tracks suitable for listening to while sitting inside and staring out a window into the cold darkness. Some might call it the elusive Autumnal Jam. In this episode, we dig into two new (to us) artists who perfectly met our needs with their eclectic blend of genres, influences, and instrumentation.Music SampledA Greater Bliss by WordclockDead Beat by The Orchestra Of Mirrored ReflectionsRelevant LinksWordclock - Unbecoming (Official Video )CreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonIt’s our legally obligated spooky month episode! This month we’re revisiting two previously discussed artists. First up, the latest album from horror master and synth aficionado John Carpenter and his trio. Then, we listen to a classic vaporgoth album from the enigmatic artist Chinese Hackers. Join us for this holiday grab bag that explores a wide range of spooky music.Music SampledLost Themes III: Alive After Death by John CarpenterTurning the Bones (CHVRCHES remix) by John Carpenter( ｗｉｒｅｔａｐ ) by Chinese HackersRelevant LinksChinese Hackers (feat. チェスマスター) — 雾 on YouTubeCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonPlunderphonics is a genre of music in which the artist repurposes samples of other music in order to construct new tracks. In essence, using the music of other artists as their instrument to create new original works. While this approach was a key element in the development of vaporwave, is there such a thing as “too much plunderphonics?” At what point does sampling simply become slowing down another song wholesale? We tackle these questions in the context of Barber Beats, a relatively new sub-genre that relies heavily on plunderphonics.Music Sampled手遅れに実現 lp by haircuts for menRed Hook by LeBronネクロマンサー by MacroblankRelevant LinksNight Clerk Radio - Episode 5 - Discussion on PlunderphonicsWhoSampled.com - Haircuts for Menr/Vaporwave Discussion of Haircuts for MenDid Olivia Rodrigo steal from Paramore? (analysis) by Adam NeelyWhy the Katy Perry/Flame lawsuit makes no sense by Adam NeelyCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

The Vaporwave Iceberg Support Night Clerk Radio on Patreon The “iceberg” is a meme template that has been used in countless subcultures to describe the descent of a fan from casual to obsessive addict. The template typically generates memes that are either light-hearted in-jokes about a fandom or an unfortunate display of gatekeeping and elitism. Recently, Ross found an iceberg meme focused on vaporwave so of course we had to talk about it. What started as a couple of people overthinking a meme results in an interesting conversation about what it means to talk to other people about music and your interests.The Original r/Vaporwave ThreadThe complete list of albums discussed can be found at the above thread.Music SampledECCO DREAMS CreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonFollowing up the 2018 release Memories of Tokyo-To, Sounds of Tokyo-To Future is the second Jet Set Radio inspired album by producer and composer 2 Mello. The album itself is a masterful exploration of a wide range of influences and genres that ultimately produces something wholly original and deeply engaging. We dedicate this entire episode to talking about how much we loved this album. Grab a copy (or check it out on Spotify) and join us.Audio SampledSounds Of Tokyo-To Future by 2 MelloSounds of Tokyo-To Future on SpotifyRelated LinksInterview with 2 Mello on Deep Listens PodcastMemories Of Tokyo​-​To by 2 Mello2 Mello on Patreon2mello.netCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on Patreon PRE-ORDER 2MELLO’S NEW ALBUM: SOUNDS OF TOKYO-TO FUTURE To some artists, hypnagogic music is categorized as “classic”, “ambient” or “experimental.” To others, hypnagogic is thought of as adjacent to lofi hip hop or trip hop. In this episode, we explore two albums that span this diverse range of labels. However one tries to classify it, there’s no denying that there are artists creating great music and calling it hypnagogic. Audio Sampledピアノの独り言 by desert sand feels warm at nightSpirit Realm by Mac Bandit Related LinksBandcamp of the Day & Interview: Desert Sand Feels Warm at NightInterview with desert sand feels warm at nightDesert Sand Feels Warm At Night talks tips for new artist - interview | Musics the Hang UpEXSHA on TwitterEXSHA LinktreeSpirit Realm Cover by Mason HillCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonOver the last decade, a new type of horror has become popular on the Internet. Driven by largely anonymous crowds through social media and online communities. In this episode, Ross discusses his thesis on how this new horror appeals to the same themes and aesthetics as vaporwave. Meanwhile, Birk does the audio equivalent of polite nodding.Audio SampledＬＯＣＡＬ５８ＴＶ - ContingencyRelated LinksWhat is Analog Horror? On Pad ChenningtonSCP FoundationThe HyperdiegesisGodzilla NESMystery Flesh Pit National ParkThe Caretaker - Everywhere At The End Of Time - Stages 1-6Dread XPCreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on Patreon It’s a double secret topic episode as Ross and Birk discuss both the evolution of chillwave and the realities of Summer vacation. These topics serve as the basis for discussing two excellent albums that represent very different interpretations of the summer jam. Albums DiscussedMidnight Mixtape by Origami VatoPalmscapes by Hotel Pools Related LinksOrigami Vato on YouTubeCurveball: an Interview with Hotel PoolsWHAT IS CHILLWAVE? By GARDNSOUND CreditsMusic by: 2MelloArtwork by: Patsy McDowellRoss on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonIn this episode, we dive into two very different dungeon synth albums. One, in this writer's opinion, tells the lonesome tale of an adventuring sea turtle. The other is an evocative blend of genres that serves as the soundtrack for the tabletop RPG of the same name. Both albums are excellent examples of the range of expression possible in a dungeon synth album. Check them out!Albums DiscussedShellbound by ulkHDK 40 † Mörk Borg by GNOLLRelated LinksMuseum Speelklok: A museum in Utrecht.MÖRK BORGCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonToonami began as a programming block on Cartoon Network, but quickly became a cultural touchstone for a generation. Its choice of shows and aesthetic influenced countless fans, artists, and producers. Instead of an aggressive macho outlook to match cartoons like Dragonball Z and Samurai Jack, it affected a chill, reassuring demeanor. Its mascot, a sardonic robot named TOM, gave inspirational speeches to viewers set to electronic music. That music along with music from some shows featured on Toonami, especially the legendary Samurai Champloo soundtrack, became important influences of lofi hip hop. Noah, the podcast ronin (and co-host of Thinking Too Much about Anime) fills in the details.Connect with Noah!Noah on TwitterNoah on TwitchCheck out Noah's podcast, "Thinking Too Hard About Anime"TwitterPodcastMusic SampledPrayer by Joe Boyd Vigil/Tommy GuerreroHammer by Pelican City aka DangermouseStrings by Tommy GuerreroBroken Promise by Joe Boyd VigilAdditional MusicToonami - Space is the Place Music VideoAlien by Joe Boyd Vigil/Tommy GuerreroDragon by Joe Boyd Vigil/Tommy GuerreroArabic by Joe Boyd Vigil/Tommy GuerreroClassic by Joe Boyd Vigil/Tommy GuerreroToonami: Deep Space BassToonami Deep Space Bass OST 07 D & B RemixYouTube Playlist of more rare/unreleased Toonami musicToonami Muzik Playlist on SpotifyRelated LinksToonami RemasteredSlimD716's YouTube ChannelToonami’s “Broken Promise [Dreams]” is Still A Millennial’s Spiritual in the Darkest of DaysCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonThe Lofi genre is often associated with mixes and 24/7 streams where listeners are exposed to an endless sequence of beats and jazz samples. However, as mentioned on our Patreon bonus episode on Lofi, we wanted to learn more about the genre by listening to albums. We’re starting with two very popular lofi artists, who regularly appear in discussions of the best artists and albums in the genre. Despite the cliché of lofi being formulaic, each of these artists brings a distinct sound to their work. It would be impossible to mistake the two. Join us and find out why.Music DiscussedNeon Impasse by City Girltransitions by jinsangRelated Links“In the Internet Age it’s Very Important to Get Lucky As Your Grind:” An Interview with City GirlAll Ages of Geek: An Interview with City GirlVickysigh on TwitterJinsang Constructs A New Humanity on "Transitions"r/MakingHipHop discussion on samplingWhoSampled listing for TransitionsLo-Fi Culture Presents: Jinsang! More than just a cup of tea.Interview With Nostalgic Chill-Hop Producer JINSANGCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Support Night Clerk Radio on PatreonLike other vaporwave subgenres, mallsoft has evolved since its creation. Initially defined by sampling and reverb, new mallsoft albums drift towards exploring new compositions and themes. While actual shopping malls are sliding into the dustbin of history, the idea of mall ambiance lingers with us. The essence of mallsoft transcends the physicality of shopping malls. Banal commercial architecture with powerful HVAC, weird acoustics, and a genial indifference to human emotions will remain with us long after the last shopping mall is torn down. New mallsoft seeks to capture that essence.Music Discussed4D Gradients by ロップMALLＡＣＡＤＥＭＹby Hallmark '87Related LinksロップMALL on BandcampA T R I U M by Hallmark '87 on Rate Your MusicCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on Twitter

Between Bandcamp and YouTube, we get recommended a lot of music courtesy of the algorithm. In this episode, we discuss a selection of three such recommendations. All three feature rich and varied ambient soundscapes, but each tackle the genre from their unique perspective. Join us as we conduct some spring cleaning on our recommendations and feel free to share your own!Music DiscussedIron Cthulhu Apocalypse on BandcampIron Cthulhu Apocalypse - Kaiju SarcophagusIron Cthulhu Apocalypse - Dead Dreamer TapesSeraphim by How To Disappear CompletelyKosmobushir by ANIHILARelated LinksIron Cthulhu Apocalypse on YouTubePolish ambient collective How to Disappear Completely released ‘Mer de Revs II’Interview with Iron Cthulhu ApocalypseCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on TwitterSupport Night Clerk Radio on Patreon

Reminder: Our patreon is up! https://www.patreon.com/nightclerkradioThe unique blend of despair and hope present in the work of post-rock legends Godspeed You! Black Emperor (GY!BE) makes their music more relevant and poignant than ever. We discuss our experiences with and love for the music of GY!BE and share our thoughts on their tremendous new album, G_d’s Pee AT STATE’S END! Spoilers: We loved it.Albums DiscussedG_d’s Pee AT STATE’S END! by Godspeed You! Black EmperorGodspeed You! Black Emperor on BandcampRelated LinksGodspeed You! Black Emperor: 'You make music for the king and his court, or for the serfs outside the walls'Godspeed You! Black Emperor – the full transcriptGY!BE Interview in The Wire, May 2000, by David KeenanThe apocalyptic future is now on Godspeed You! Black Emperor’s Luciferian TowersGY!BE on the Internet ArchiveFan Anecdote of GY!BE Live Show28 Days Later - Jim's rampageCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on TwitterSupport Night Clerk Radio on Patreon

Reminder: Our patreon is up! https://www.patreon.com/nightclerkradioIn terms of hours listened, video game music probably wins for every generation that came of age with a game console in the house. It's no surprise then that new artists use video game music as a starting point for their work - not merely remixing or imitating but building upon it. On this episode we listen to two fantastic video game inspired albums and discuss our own experiences with video game soundtracks. Stay Awhile and Listen!Albums DiscussedOST​(​1​)​.​rar by R23XCURSEBREAKER X by EquipRelated LinksAn Interview with Marc Junker AKA R23XR23X - SOUND_TRACK ~ [MP3].torrent Music VideoEquip (Kevin Hein) Interview For Bandcamp - Full TranscriptCHILLIN' IN THE PAD (Episode #002​) - EquipCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on TwitterSupport Night Clerk Radio on Patreon

Reminder: Our patreon is up! https://www.patreon.com/nightclerkradioDark Jazz can be droning, languid, and brooding - the music of smoky and quiet bars, of desperate people lost in themselves, of mystery and regret. And we're back listening to it again, this time examining two bands both of whom are deeply linked to the genre as they've been producing excellent dark jazz episodes for decades. We dig into two of their recent albums and share our thoughts.Albums DiscussedRamsès Redoute by The Dale Cooper Quartet & The DictaphonesPatchouli Blue by Bohren & Der Club Of GoreRelated LinksAn Interview With Dale Cooper Quartet & The DictaphonesStep Right Up: Dale Cooper QuartetElevator Music: An Interview With Bohren & Der Club Of GoreBohren & Der Club Of Gore: "The End Of Humanity Has Never Sounded So Hopeless And CreepyCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on TwitterSupport Night Clerk Radio on Patreon

Reminder: Our patreon is up! https://www.patreon.com/nightclerkradioHeimat Der Katastrophe (HDK) is a DIY label managed by an artist collective in Milan. They produce a wide range of albums from genres described as "ambient punk, minimal-synth, dungeon-drone, wartime music and post-nuclear wave." On this episode, we discuss two of their recent releases: a classic dungeon synth album and a soundtrack for an Italian sci-fi tv-movie that never existed.Albums DiscussedHDK 72 † La gabbia umana by A. RallaHDK 81 † Husk the mountains by PontifferasmusRelated Links13 Essential Italian Horror SoundtracksNotebook Soundtrack Mix #10: The Black Belly of GialloHow Do You Make Music For Giallo Films? Composer Curtis Heath ExplainsCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on TwitterSupport Night Clerk Radio on Patreon

News: The Night Clerk Radio Patreon is now live. You can check it out and support us at:https://www.patreon.com/nightclerkradioYou'll get bonus episodes, access to our community Discord, and much more as the Patreon continues to grow!Each yeah, the vaporwave subreddit (r/vaporwave), compiles a list of their favorite albums of the year. For this episode, we checked out the "Best of 2020" albums and listened to as many of them as possible. We discuss our personal favorites from the list, but in reality they're all worth checking out.Full Best of 2020 ListAlbums Discussed常夏 by desert sand feels warm at nighthigh society by luxury eliteO'discordia by w i n t e r q u i l tWii Fit 𝙃𝘿 𝙍𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 by US Golf 95Shout-OutsDestination Spa by DATAGIRLGAIA by Blank Banshee喚起 by ｇｈ０ｓｔMidnight Store by Donor LensThank You For Holding by Various Artists1989 by haircuts for menΩMEGA MALL X by Limousineliteware by FM SkylineCreditsMusic by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterNight Clerk Radio on TwitterSupport Night Clerk Radio on Patreon

Hyperreality, a term coined by Jean Baudrillard, is the point at which the real can no longer be easily distinguished from fiction or simulation including simulations of realities that do not exist known as simulacra. The connection to vaporwave, a genre of music which seeks to induce nostalgia for eras that never existed, is immediately apparent. On this topic episode we briefly introduce some of the ideas behind Baudrillard's hyperreality and discuss how we think they can be applied to vaporwave and its aesthetic goals.Reading List------------------Simulacra and Simulation by Jean BaudrillardAmerica by Jean BaudrillardFaith in Fakes: Travels in Hyperreality by Umberto Eco, William WeaverAdditional Resources--------------------Baudrillard and Vaporwave: A Remixed NostalgiaCulture Jamming: Hacking, Slashing, and Sniping in the Empire of SignsRick Roderick on Baudrillard - Fatal StrategiesEpisode 124 ... Simulacra and Simulation on Philosophize This!American Psycho, Baudrillard and the Postmodern ConditionDon’t Worry, These Gangly-armed Cartoons Are Here to Protect You From Big TechComment: Vaporwave and the pop-art of the virtual plazaComment: “Distroid” – the muscular music of hi-DEF doomCredits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Often, technology evolves at such a relentless pace that consumers may not be able to explore something's full potential before moving on to the next upgrade. In this episode, we dive into two artists who are linked by their common goal to produce novel audiovisual art using these abandoned technologies as both inspiration and instrument. Join us as we explore two very different slices of computer history.Albums Discussed------------------C​:​\​>DEFRAG by MASTER BOOT RECORDCyberspace Database by Fornax VoidRelated Links-------------MASTER BOOT RECORD on TwitchMASTER BOOT RECORD - Reddit AMA - 2018“C​:​\​>DEFRAG” Review - Everything Is NoiseFornax Void - Cyberspace Database Production DocumentationFornax Void - Corporate Intranet Menu Music (Official Video)Credits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Yig, this year's entry in Cryo Chamber's annual Lovecraft Collection, features over two hours of eclectic soundscapes and atmospheric music produced by a collaboration of some of the best dark ambient musicians. Join us as we dig into this masterful album and unpack some of our favorite parts. Don't forget the corn.Albums Discussed------------------Yig by Cryo Chamber CollaborationSilent Hill 1 - Intro and EndingRelated Links-------------Yig on YouTube Track 1Yig on YouTube Track2Yig | The H.P. Lovecraft WikiDark Ambient of 2020 by Cryo ChamberOur Hastur Episode with Caleb StokesCredits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

The chilling and eclectic soundtrack of Unsolved Mysteries is comprised of hundreds of hours of original music written during the show's decades long run. The theme song alone is renowned for its ability to frighten and unsettle young viewers of the show. In recent years, a small portion of this music has been curated and released as two records. In this episode, we are joined by Caleb Stokes from The Mixed Six Podcast to discuss the music from these albums and share our personal experiences watching Unsolved Mysteries. Join us for an UPDATE!Albums Discussed------------------Unsolved Mysteries Volune One: Ghosts / Hauntings /The UnexplainedUnsolved Mysteries Volume Two: Bizarre Murders / UFOs/ The UnexplainedUnsolved Mysteries 2020 Netflix IntroWhere To Find Caleb--------------------Caleb on TwitterRed Markets: A Game of Economic HorrorThe Mixed Six Podcast Related Links-------------The Devil in music (an untold history of the Tritone)Here's the Story Behind the Creepy Unsolved Mysteries Theme SongMarch's Lost Legend of the Month: The Unsolved Mysteries "Update" ThemeWhy is the 'Unsolved Mysteries' theme song so creepy?An Interview with Composer Dan AlvarezCredits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Christmas, particularly in the US, has become a yearly affair of seasonal pop music and rampant consumerism. Fortunately for us, this makes it the perfect target for vaporwave and mallsoft, where critiquing capitalism by manipulating pop music is the standard fare. This, combined with the ever-present themes of hauntology and nostalgia, means we have a lot to discuss. So, grab a mug of your favorite hot beverage and join us as we cover two albums that apply a vaporwave lens to Christmas music.Albums Discussed------------------FANTASY☆DELUXE CHRISTMAS EVE HOLIDAY SPECIALChristmastime at North Hills Mall by Vacation Bible SchoolRelated Links-------------What makes a song sound like Christmas? By Adam Neely"Christmastime at North Hills Mall" -- Visual Experience AlbumChristmas CreepCredits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Intersection of multiple influential elements - Jet Set Radio introduced a generation of gamers to new styles of music and art, a legacy still felt today. It gave us an alternative to the forever war narrative of most games, a world where violence and greed is defeated by art. It’s hopeful, a model for utopian praxis. Despite its flaws, JSR had a vision. This vision affected countless artists, musicians, and game designers.Even if you’ve never heard of this game or the Dreamcast, this soundtrack is worth listening to. It’s an eclectic album but everything fits together to create a union of funk, rock, house, techno and hip hop you can nod your head to. It stands on its own. We will probably never get another Jet Set Radio game but that’s fine. This represents the best spirit of its era and it still slaps today.Albums Discussed------------------Jet Set Radio SoundtrackJet Set Radio Future SoundtrackMemories Of Tokyo​-​To: An Ode To Jet Set Radio by 2 MelloRelated Links-------------So I've Finally Played... Jet Set Radio & Future (+Hover)Jet Set Radio | LIVEJet Set Radio, Splatoon and IdentityList of tracks in Jet Set RadioCredits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on Twitter Birk on Twitter Follow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

The smooth jazz soundtrack and automated aesthetic featured on The Weather Channel in the mid-90's has been finding its way into vaporwave and internet art for nearly a decade. It represents a kind of forgotten nostalgia for calmer times. In this episode we talk about how this music came to be, it's relationship to vaporwave, and its impact on our memories of The Weather Channel.Albums Discussed------------------ATMOSPHERES 第1 by Eco VirtualSunday Television by 猫 シ Corp.WMCC Weather Channel by Morris County Meteorological TeamRelated Links-------------The Weather Channel Classics - Trammell StarksThe Weather Channel's 'Smooth Jazz' Strikes Chord with ViewersThe Weather Channel’s Soothing Music: Millennial RebellionRetroWeatherChannel on TwitchA look back: Weather Channel graphics of the pastCredits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on Twitter Birk on Twitter Follow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

The Quake soundtrack, written and performed by Trent Reznor and Nine Inch Nails, is as dark and atmospheric as the game itself. Its blend of industrial, dark ambient, and drone is rich and textured, marking a step forward for video game soundtracks. In this episode, we talk about the impact of Quake on our musical tastes and discuss the album in detail. Music Discussed----------------Quake Soundtrack Vinyl ReleaseRelated Links-------------NIN Wiki Entry: The Quake SoundtrackCarmack and McGee's lost essay on the soundtrack.Credits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on Twitter Birk on Twitter Follow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

John Carpenter is responsible for some of the most iconic horror movies of all time. These movies are famous for both their visual imagery and compelling soundtracks, many of which Carpenter wrote and performed himself. Since "retiring" from filmmaking, Carpenter has gone on to produce two albums, Lost Themes I and II. These albums offer an excellent introduction to Carpenter's influential sound and sheer mastery at producing evocative and thematic music. In this episode, we talk about Carpenter's influences, his music and unique sound, and his lasting influence on the genre of synthwave.Music Discussed-----------------Lost Themes by John CarpenterLost Themes II by John CarpenterAnthology: Movie Themes 1974​-​1998 by John CarpenterRelated Links-------------Look, John Carpenter Just Wants to Make Music, OK?John Carpenter Talks To Us About Playing MusicJohn Carpenter: The Horror MasterJohn Carpenter on the Music That Made Him a Horror IconSound On Sound: John CarpenterThe Synth Sounds of John Carpenter by ReverbCredits -------- Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on Twitter Birk on Twitter Follow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Have you ever wished that your music could whisk you away to a fantasy world of corporate culture and values? If so, look no further than the dulcet MIDI-inspired tones of Muzakcore. A niche genre that embodies the musical spirit of being put on hold, sitting in waiting rooms, watching PowerPoint presentations, and of course, standing in elevators. This is the music of waiting. Of boredom. Join us as we explore two classic albums of the genre and discuss how Muzakcore fits into the larger context of Vaporwave.Music Discussed-----------------Corporate Mixtape by 猫 シ Corp. & Donovan HikaruHome: Complete Edition by PrismCorp Virtual EnterprisesClearSkies: Complete Edition by PrismCorp Virtual EnterprisesRelated Links-------------/r/Vaporwave wiki on MuzakcoreAdam Neely's Video Essay on The Girl from IpanemaYamaha MIDI Library used on ClearSkiesCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Inspired by the positive reception received by Miles to Midnight we decided to dig deeper into the genre of dark jazz. Dark jazz combines noir instrumentation with the cinematic sensibilities of dark ambient to produce music that is evocative and moody. We discuss two albums that take dark jazz and move in a funerary direction with haunting effectiveness. Come listen with us!Music Discussed-----------------Anthropocene by Dead Melodies & ZenjungleGhost by BlackmoleRelated Links-------------Dark Jazz Suggestion - Mount Fuji Doomjazz CorporationDark Jazz Suggestion - The Kilimanjaro Darkjazz EnsembleDark Jazz Suggestion - Dale Cooper QuartetArkady Severny - WikipediaCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Dream Catalogue is one of the oldest and most prolific record labels for vaporwave and beyond. Their founder, Hong Kong Express (HKE), has commented excessively (and sometimes controversially) on the future of the genre and how it should continue to evolve. In this episode, we talk about Dream Catalogue and what importance genre has, if any. We then discuss two recent albums released on the Dream Catalogue label.Music Discussed-----------------NEW by CVLTVREMount To Nothing by SangamRelated Links-------------Dreampunk: The Soundtrack To DreamsVapor MemoryThe Statement — on the future of Dream Catalogue and the dreampunk sceneUpfront 066 / Dream CatalogueASK CVLTVRE ANYTHING from r/vaporwaveCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

How do you find new music? For some, this can be a difficult question as the landscape of music distribution continues to evolve. In this episode, we talk about some of ways we scour the Internet for new albums and artists. Even better, we get to listen to two new albums recommended to us by Ronny from Vaporspace StL. Join us as we discuss these two excellent albums and let us know how you find new music!Music Discussed-----------------Extra Breezy by Bonus PointsSmoker's Lounge Deluxe by Trans World AirlinesRelated Links-------------Find more music at Vaporspace StLJuly 12, 1979: 'The Night Disco Died' — Or Didn'tStrings Attached: How Symphonic Soul Scored Big In The 70sCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

This episode we are joined by our good friend Bridget to discuss the music and sound design elements that go into making horror video games. Great games, like those we discuss, create an atmosphere of dread and anticipation while keeping the player engaged without becoming fatigued. The developers, working alongside composers and sound designers, must carefully balance these cycles of tension and release. Join us as we explore how three classic survival horror games nail this balance.Support Bridget-----------------Bridget on TwitterBridget on PatreonCry on TwitterCry on SponsusCry on Itch.ioCry on Role Playing Public RadioMusic Discussed-----------------Resident Evil 3 - Nemesis ThemeSilent Hill 2 - A World Of MadnessSilent Hill 2 - The Darkness That Lurks In Our MindFatal Frame III: The Tormented - Projection RoomResident Evil - Safe HavenFatal Frame III: The Tormented - Head BuilderFatal Frame III: The Tormented - ReikaAkira Yamaoka - You're Not HereAmano Tsukiko - KoeRelated Links-------------Interview with Akira Yamaoka (Music 4 Games)Akira Yamaoka: How the Silent Hill Composer Revolutionised Survival HorrorCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Dark ambient could not exist without movie soundtracks. The quiet moments of dread in a horror film sparked something in musicians and listeners alike - who craved more of these soundscapes of dread before the monster appeared. In this episode we look at two albums that are clearly linked to cinematic masterpieces of fear. They are also some of the high water points of the genre, reaching slightly more mainstream audiences than most dark ambient albums ever get.Albums Discussed-------------------Anthology Resource Vol. I by Dean HurleyEverywhere, an empty bliss by The CaretakerRelated Links --------------Revisiting Eraserhead’s haunting, industrial soundtrackIn Heaven: Celebrating the surreal sounds of David LynchSoundtrack from Twin Peaks by Angelo BadalamentiWhoSampled for Everywhere, an empty blissExample of Numbers StationsLeyland James Kirby On The Caretaker, Alzheimer's Disease And His Show At Unsound FestivalMy Father's Brain: What Alzheimer's Takes Away by Jonathan FranzenCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

What do we mean by the term "haunted music?" This phrase is rooted in the concept of Hauntology, a philosophical concept that refers to how we relate our memories to the past, whether that past is real or imagined, and how elements of those memories persist and "haunt" us today. Join us as we discuss how Hauntology relates to vaporwave and how it can be a useful tool for examining media more generally.Relevant Links---------------Ghosts of My Life by Mark FisherCapitalist Realism by Mark FisherBabbling Corpse by Grafton TannerSpecters of Marx by Jacques DerridaArctic Monkeys - I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor (Official Video)Credits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

We sit down with Caleb Stokes to discuss Cryo Chamber's 2019 release "Hastur," part of their Lovecraft Collection. This massive double album is a collaborative effort by over 20 artists who worked together to create its unique blend of sounds and textures. The result is a two and a half hour journey through an immense variety of genres and soundscapes. Grab your drink ticket and join us for a listen!Album Discussed------------------Hastur by Cryo ChamberWhere to Find Caleb--------------------Caleb on TwitterThe Mixed Six PodcastThe Mixed Six on TwitterCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Hypnagogia is the state of consciousness one experiences when transitioning from waking to sleeping. Hypnagogic vaporwave attempts to capture this sensation through the production of music that can be airy and ethereal or moody and ambient. Join Ross and Birk as they discuss one of their favorite sub-genres of vaporwave through the lens of two classic albums.Albums Discussed------------------virtua.zip by ESPRIT 空想A Heart Full Of Love by DARKPYRAMIDRelated Links--------------Essential Hypnagogic AlbumsPad Chennington Interview with George ClantonCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Whether it hits you with aggressive 808 kicks or lifts you up with airy synths and trap beats, vaportrap offers a unique and wide-ranging blend of hip hop and vaporwave that can't be found anywhere else. In this episode, Ross and Birk talk about two classic vaportrap albums discussing topics such as production styles, the relationship between albums and genres, and the preservation of art in the digital world. Albums Discussed------------------DREAMS by FRCLNFujita Scale by NxxxxxSRelated Links--------------io808: An in browser Roland 808 emulator.808: A documentary about the 808 drum machine.Brian Eno on anachronism in art.NxxxxxS - Extratropical Cyclone (Official Video)The /r/Vaporwave thread on NxxxxxS Deleting Music.Credits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Dungeon Synth is a genre that presents a unique blend of aesthetics by combining the fantastical themes of role-playing games with the moodiness and storytelling of dark ambient. In this episode, Ross and Birk listen to two albums from two very different periods in the history of Dungeon Synth and explore how the genre has evolved from its roots in black metal and 90's synths to a more nostalgic chip tune approach rooted in a love of 8- and 16-bit video games. Lend your ear to this musical adventure!Albums Discussed------------------Depressive Silence - Mourning (orig. Depressive Silence II)KOBOLD - The valley of the forgotten secretsRelated Links--------------A Guide Through the Darkened Passages of Dungeon SynthA Beginner’s Guide to…Dungeon SynthThe (Somewhat) Definitive Guide to Dungeon SynthCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

We recently talked to Ron Parres, the organizer behind Vaporspace StL. They are launching a massive online vaporwave concert on May 22 and 23. Find out what the live vaporwave scene was like before Covid and what online concerts are like. Music Mentioned----------------Sound Market- Eco RegionsExtra Breezy by Bonus PointsSmoker's Lounge Deluxe by Trans World Airlines Related Links-------------VAPORSPACE StL is an IRL & URL concentration of vaporwave and vapor-adjacent artists and their fans. VAPORSPACE StL’s primary mission is producing high-quality music events featuring vaporwave artists, while showcasing the artistic talent in St. Louis and the Midwest.Watch Vaporspace StL on TwitchRon Parres on TwitterCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Plunderphonics is a term coined by composer John Oswald in 1985. It describes any music that is constructed by mutating existing audio recordings into entirely new compositions. By making plunderphonic music artists tackle copyright law, fair use, the legitimacy of sampling, and numerous other issues surrounding the production of art in a digital world. Join us as we discuss the history of plunderphonics, how listening to plunderphonic music has shaped our musical tastes and experiences, and how this all relates back to vaporwave. Steal This Episode!Music Sampled-----------------Greyfolded - Grateful Dead & John OswaldPekka Pohjola - Sekoilu Seestyy (Madness Subsides)DJ Shadow - Midnight In A Perfect WorldNEGATIVLAND - U2Related Links-------------"Plunderphonics, or Audio Piracy as a Compositional Prerogative"Why a Canadian Composer’s Controversial 80s Work is Still Ahead of Today's Copyright LawsTake A Byte Out: DJ Shadow, the Avalanches and the History of PlunderphonicsGirl Talk - All DayGeorge Marsh on Drums: Interviewed by Terry McGovernEvery Sample From The Avalanches Since I Left YouDJ Shadow on crate digging in the documentary ScratchCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Mallsoft is a subgenre of vaporwave that aims to comment on our relationship with retail spaces and consumerism. By emulating and sampling muzak, often mixed with field recordings of actual stores, Mallsoft creates a sense of occupying now abandoned shopping centers. Wander the aisles of nostalgia with us as we discuss two pillar albums of the genre.The AlbumsHologram Plaza슈퍼마켓Yes! We’re OpenRelated Links-------------Mallsoft Is The New Elevator MusicAlone In Public - a No Man's Sky ReviewThe myth and majesty of Vangelis’ timeless Blade Runner soundtrackWho Sampled Yes We're OpenJordan Bortner Yes We're Open!Credits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Vaporwave is haunted music because it’s about being haunted by our recent past and futures they never came. Dark Ambient is haunted because it pulls us into a subtly horrifying realm. It’s a form of catharsis for late night walks, study sessions, and all the quiet nights we experience. These two albums take the listener through haunted hotels and abandoned space stations. Take a listen and try not to get lost.The Albums Miles To MidnightS O L A R I SRelated Links --------------Dark Ambient: For When You Need to Concentrate… or Meditate on the Nothingness of ExistenceA Cinematic Edge: An Interview with Cryo Chamber Founder Simon Heath Angelo Badalamenti On Writing Laura Palmer's ThemeInterview with Eduard Artemyev, composer for Tarkovsky's SolarisCredits--------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Without video game music, vaporwave would not exist. Just as vaporwave is music for a future that no longer exists, soundtracks for fictional games now haunt the Internet. These concept albums evoke the era of late 90s and early 2000s consoles while still retaining original ideas. Find a save point and listen for a while.The AlbumsPleasant SpecterNight of Terror Related Links-------------Hauntology on WikipediaVideo essay on hauntologyGhost of our lives essayADX file format description-------------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

Both Birk and I stumbled onto vaporwave through the Internet. I can place my discovery of it within a few days thanks to archived emails and chats. Caleb Stokes, friend of the podcast messaged me on August 18, 2014 “BTW, this vaporwave shit is the elevator music of carcosa”. In this episode, we each review the first vaporwave album we remember and think back to how it affects us now.The AlbumsEcojames Volume 1Computer Death Related Links-------------Signalwave explainer videoSampling/Plunderphonics essayFirst episode of RPPR that mentions vaporwaveWho Sampled for Computer Death Clifford Marshall van Buren -------------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates

A poet once described vaporwave as “It kinda like living in a junkyard but you're in a dystopian future and you find a bunch of VHS tapes and you're the only person in the world and everything is lonely but you have a bunch of weed and you're high all the time and you're in Japan and you're in the sky.” It’s a little more complicated than that but you get the idea.Birk and I talk about the appeal of music like vaporwave and why we want to explore it. If you’ve been drawn to media outside the mainstream and appreciate art made without commercial consideration by outsiders, perhaps you might like vaporwave. It’s the soundtrack to memories of a lost future. No better time to start listening than today…Related Links-------------The K-Mart TapesSabrepulseStreets of Rage 2 soundtrackSilent Hill 2 soundtrackBoards of Canada - Dayvan Cowboy An Abandoned Mall in Birk's home townBabbling Corpse, a book about vaporwaveCry Novel: a visual novel The Vaporwave subreddit-------------Music by: 2Mello Artwork by: Patsy McDowell Ross on TwitterBirk on TwitterFollow Night Clerk Radio on Twitter for updates