Ear Expansion with Laraaji

In this episode of Ear Expansion, host LaMont Hamilton engages in a profound conversation with Laraaji, an influential sound artist whose work has spanned over five decades. Laraaji shares experiences from his early musical explorations in a Baptist church basement, his serendipitous encounter with the zither, and his ventures into ambient music. Throughout the dialogue, Laraaji delves into the spiritual dimensions of sound, describing music as a medium for deep cosmic connection and self-communion. He reflects on the transformative power of sound, drawing parallels between his past and present musical expressions. The discussion highlights Laraaji's belief in using sound as a tool for achieving inner equilibrium, navigating life's challenges, and fostering a continuous state of gratitude and peace. Hamilton and Laraaji also touch upon the collaborative essence of musical exploration, emphasizing the shared attunement that transcends space and time, and the significance of practices like meditation and creative contemplation in sustaining spiritual and artistic fulfillment. This conversation is an insightful exploration of the interplay between music, spirituality, and self-awareness.

Ear Expansion Podcast is a multi-part series of recorded, long form conversations between host LaMont Hamilton and various artists of color working in all aspects of sound. This podcast aims to highlight artists who are invested in the idea of making art that extends the listening experience. Traditionally this has been described as “sound art” or “experimental” work. Ear Expansion Podcast; however, hopes to advocate for a new descriptive language- aural art. Aural Art is a move away from less defined terms such as ambient or experimental in order to specify art made for the hearing body- both the act of listening and its somatic extension.

• No. of episodes: 48
• Latest episode: 2025-05-01
• Arts Music Performing Arts Music Commentary

Where can you listen?