Tracks Music Library, a local streaming service launched in collaboration with the Chapel Hill Public Library and Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture that highlights the music of local artists, is releasing two exclusive album compilations as part of ongoing efforts to support local music during the current pandemic.
“Tracks Volume I: We Rise As Allies” and “Tracks Volume II: Isolation Illumination” were commissioned from two local producers and several artists whose work can be found in the Tracks library as an exclusive. Inspired by the country’s forced isolation and Black Lives Matter protests, the 10 original compositions were written and recorded remotely over the summer. Each album features cover art by a selected visual artist inspired by the music and compilation title.
Tracks Volume I: We Rise As Allies features songs by country duo Violet Bell, jazz pianist Lydia Salett Dudley, soul singer Sonny Miles, R&B vocalist XOXOK, and hip-hop artist J Rowdy. The album was produced by Vibehouse 405 owner and local hip-hop artist Kevin ‘Kaze’ Thomas. Cover art was designed by Durham-based visual artist Chris Frisina.
Produced by Thom Canova, Tracks Volume II: Isolation Illumination includes music from electro-pop duo Ghost Guns, bluegrass collective Hard Drive, indie rock group Shelles, garage punk girls BANGZZ, and indie pop pair Pretend Chess. Local artist Cassidy Goff (also known as musician Alo Ver) created the cover art.
The project was supported by grant funds from the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the federal Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) as administered by the State Library of North Carolina, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. Launched in June with over 70 local bands, Tracks Music Library joined a small cadre of communities whose public libraries have created similar platforms, including Austin, Seattle, Nashville, and Pittsburgh. Featuring a wide range of music from area bands and musicians available for free streaming, the platform aims to help music lovers find new bands to enjoy and to help local musicians connect with new audiences.
Fans of local music, and the Tracks Music Library, can also tune in to 97.9 The Hill on Tuesday, December 15, 6 p.m. for a special session of “Live & Local” with Kevin “Kaze” Thomas featuring some behind-the-scenes looks at curating Tracks, as well as some discussion of his new album.
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