Music Review: ESP, ESP EP

By Less Lee Moore

My introduction to ESP was via the eye-popping video for their song “Serenade,” directed by Alexandra Pelly, and described as an homage to Yellow Magic Orchestra. As a fan of WTUL’s Techno 2000 radio show in the ’80s, I am familiar with YMO’s music, particularly that of member Ryuichi Sakamoto, who also worked with Japan and David Sylvian. Naturally my interest was piqued.

According to their press materials, “ESP is a new Los Angeles-based trio whose primary interest is, as their name implies, Extra Sensory Perception.” Apparently they seek to explore this phenomenon through their music. It’s a fitting title; their music is psychedelic but not beholden to the 1960s sonic palette normally associated with that word. Their lyrics are more about creating a mood than telling a story.

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What The Music Wants To Be: An Interview with Mike Doughty

Interviewed by Barry Sanders

There is something special about being a fan of a band or musician with a cult following: you get all the excitement of being star-stuck but it’s excitement wrapped in nifty packaging that only a few can appreciate.

Mike Doughty qualifies twice over. First, as the lead singer of Soul Coughing through the 90s, and now as a prolific solo artist.
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