Aural Moon Shows

[Yesspaz]

As a former show-haver myself, here's my nine cents worth:

First, ALL shows, except maybe Gags, should be ONE HOUR. I like the Digressive Rock Hour idea, with emphasis on HOUR. As VAX mentioned, the #1 thing about AM is the request idea, and I'll add that #2 is that non-request song slots get filled randomly by SAM. A show (yes, even mine) ultimately give one person basically a big request pass.

The other thing is this: shows do not HAVE to be each week. The hardest thing about programming my headphone show back in the day was finding two hours of headphone music each week. Often I'd have 45 minutes of great headphone stuff, and then some other stuff that I thought would be worth a listen (everything sounds better in phones - KW called my can man for a reason).

If I were still doing BrainRock, it would NOT be weekly. It'd be "whenever-I've-got-a-legitimate-one-hour-of-music" show. A consistent air time, sure, but it doesn't have to be each and EVERY week. That's what took me so long to see: Internet radio does NOT have to fit into the FCC controlled formatting of broadcast radio. In other words, the AMers would learn that [i]if[i] there's a SHOW X this week, it's at 2 pm, as always.

Other than that, whatever on content. The biggest thing is don't let them get long in the teeth. I say one hour per show.

Spaz out.

[GORT]

I'm with some of the others, I think a Digressive hour or two would be fun.
I'm not a complainer, so whatever happens so be it. VAX, I understand your
point on Theme Thursday, but everyone seems to enjoy it. After all it was podakayne and myself that got the ball rolling on that thing again. I love the
community here and will go with the flow, no matter where it takes us...
I am easy to please when it comes to good music. Cheers and love to you all !

[VAXman(Admin)]

Originally Posted by GORT

VAX, I understand your point on Theme Thursday, but everyone seems to enjoy it.

I know and I have no problem with having a theme request day. The object and focus of theme day was about being creative with the hope of stimulating some varied requests (and thought) instead of some vapid "songs with prepositions, verbs, adverbs, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, alliteration, onomatopoeia, expletives, etc." in the title track. I've had enough of that with some of the shows.

[Rick and Roll]

Originally Posted by VAXman

I know and I have no problem with having a theme request day. The object and focus of theme day was about being creative with the hope of stimulating some varied requests (and thought) instead of some vapid "songs with prepositions, verbs, adverbs, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, alliteration, onomatopoeia, expletives, etc." in the title track. I've had enough of that with some of the shows.

You don't really need a mandated theme to have varied requests. You don't even need to have a theme - a suggestion is helpful, maybe.

Give the Aural Moon listeners some credit - left to their own devices, things work out pretty good.

As for the "vapid" comment, sometimes I'll have a show like that but I tend to shy away from them. the artists played drive the theme, not the other way around. A set theme (as you yourself have stated and I agree) is limiting. Again, the music selection is first then the theme, for me.

I'm not going to speak for other shows that employ "themes".

[VAXman(Admin)]

Originally Posted by Rick and Roll

You don't really need a mandated theme to have varied requests. You don't even need to have a theme - a suggestion is helpful, maybe.

Absolutely! However, it was requested/suggested we have a theme day. Fridays, in case you haven't noticed, have also eroded into Fusion Friday; albeit, unofficially.

Originally Posted by Rick and Roll

Give the Aural Moon listeners some credit - left to their own devices, things work out pretty good.

Well.

I'm not discrediting them. It's been a great and fun way to get a sense of community.

[Rick and Roll]

Originally Posted by VAXman

Absolutely! However, it was requested/suggested we have a theme day. Fridays, in case you haven't noticed, have also eroded into Fusion Friday; albeit, unofficially.


Well.

I'm not discrediting them. It's been a great and fun way to get a sense of community.

I hadn't thanks. I see about the alliterations (Themeing Thursday, Fusion Friday).

[Roger -Dot- Lee(Admin)]

Originally Posted by Rick and Roll

You don't really need a mandated theme to have varied requests. You don't even need to have a theme - a suggestion is helpful, maybe.

I thought that's what they WERE -- suggestions. I wasn't aware that theming thursday was mandatory.

Originally Posted by Rick and Roll

Give the Aural Moon listeners some credit - left to their own devices, things work out pretty good.

I've found, with very limited exceptions, that this is indeed the case. When dealing with a group this large, issues can arise. My policy, however, is to generally let things take their own course.

Unless, of course, they denigrate even further, in which case I'm definitely not hesitant to invoke the titanium-plated drill-bit of common courtesy (as I believe any of the regulars (and even some of the not-so-regulars) can likely attest to).

Originally Posted by Rick and Roll

As for the "vapid" comment, sometimes I'll have a show like that but I tend to shy away from them. the artists played drive the theme, not the other way around. A set theme (as you yourself have stated and I agree) is limiting. Again, the music selection is first then the theme, for me.

True, it may be limiting. However, without following a theme of one form or another, the shows can (and likely will) turn into little more than a three hour request block. Not something I'm interested in supporting.

Roger -Dot- Lee

[OverHillandDale(Admin)]

I think I'd have to jump onto the A.D.D. wagon as well. I would definately like to see more shows, but of shorter duration during the working week. On the weekends, I think the format can be a little longer. But at that, I'd like to see a two hour limit.

3 hours - It's too much time to fill with one subject and too many different subjects must be used to fill up the time. I live by the old entertainment adage of "Leave them wanting more." (and 'keep it simple..." doesn't fall far from that same tree).

4 hours - Gags is a four hour marathon of which a very low percentage of folks listen to on it's original broadcast night. Those that come into shout about then usually roll their virual eyes. Now out of that 4 hours, approximatley only 3 hours of it are music. The rest are promotions for New Jersey and other places and events that AM listeners have little to no interest in (or they've heard them so many times....). Do we really want promos and commercials on our airwaves?

The show just is not working as well anymore, for me. What that show was prior to the RIAA uproad has not seemed to return. Now, I have to admit I'm new to Tom's shows. I have only been listening to him about 1.5 years - not a very long time. Most of the time I can't understand the dialogue or monologue. I hardly ever know what's playing unless I recognize it. As Lamour said before, that takes a lot of the interest and enjoyment out of the program.

What I'd like to see from Tom is a version of his show that he does just for us. Not a rebroadcast of their Saturday night show, but a separate, individually programmed show just for AM listeners. Or perhaps just an interview show led by him that mixes Prog Music news and live or recorded interviews with parties of interest to our genre. Tom's musical knowledge is tantamout to the Prog scene on the East coast. He is a major force to be utilized to support and promote the growth and sustainment of Progressive Rock in the United States and abroad. I don't have issues with his talent, knowledge or artistic creativity. But I'd like to see it used more creatively and specifically to OUR end. I don't think we are here to promote 88.9FM. Not to mention that they too broadcast on the internet and anyone can get the same feed (if not a slightly better one at that as it is direct and not mirrored {or whatever you call it} thus reducing the quality of the sound). I find that redundant and not in character of the Flagship of the Prog Radio world (which is what we are IMHO).

Okay, enough about the present system, except to say, I miss the shows that have fallen by the wayside of late. I would like to seem those spots return or be replaced in a short format. I'll write more in another post about some of the types of shows I'd like to see.

And lastly, please everyone, understand I respect everyone's efforts towards making AM the best internet radio station. The time, dedication, knowledge, talent and BS&T it takes to do what each of you do is greatly appreciated. Do not think I don't understand or appreciate what you do. I know what it takes and I do appreciate you!!! But I do think we can fine tune everyone's talents and efforts into something better for everyone.

[Rick and Roll]

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

I think I'd have to jump onto the A.D.D. wagon as well.

Then you'll love this one. I just bought it and have been meaning to get it for a long time, and will play it next week.

http://musicishere.com/artists/John_...ffordable_Food

[Rick and Roll]

A few more comments:

It seems three hours is long from the sampling we've seen here. I've no issue with two, if the consensus is such.

I do NOT agree about "it doesn't have to be every week". Consistency is key. Has nothing to do with commercial radio. It has to do with reliability and ease for the listener.

Dale, great points about Gagliarchives. However you won't get a version just for us, that's not feasible - unless you cut out the commercials.

I've been getting away from the three hours of the same band. Haven't done that in a while and will not in the forseeable future. I like individual songs personally. But a new release or an old classic deserves a full play, so that's 35-65 minutes.

[VAXman(Admin)]

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

I think I'd have to jump onto the A.D.D. wagon as well.

A.D.D?

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

4 hours - Gags is a four hour marathon of which a very low percentage of folks listen to on it's original broadcast night. Those that come into shout about then usually roll their virual eyes. Now out of that 4 hours, approximatley only 3 hours of it are music. The rest are promotions for New Jersey and other places and events that AM listeners have little to no interest in (or they've heard them so many times....). Do we really want promos and commercials on our airwaves?

I happen to think it is quite a privilege to have his show rebroadcast here. Again, it *IS* a show broadcast right from my area so I can understand a bit of local and Philly area news. I'm not sure, since it is Tom's show, that we should be editing its content. However, if it is OK with Tom, you can be appointed to sit and listen and censor all of the public service announcements and discussion, and leave just the music.

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

The show just is not working as well anymore, for me. What that show was prior to the RIAA uproad has not seemed to return. Now, I have to admit I'm new to Tom's shows. I have only been listening to him about 1.5 years - not a very long time. Most of the time I can't understand the dialogue or monologue. I hardly ever know what's playing unless I recognize it. As Lamour said before, that takes a lot of the interest and enjoyment out of the program.

Tom's show has not changed. The RIAA uproar concerned internet radio paying more blood-money to carry music content. It had nothing to do with Tom's show content.

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

What I'd like to see from Tom is a version of his show that he does just for us. Not a rebroadcast of their Saturday night show, but a separate, individually programmed show just for AM listeners. Or perhaps just an interview show led by him that mixes Prog Music news and live or recorded interviews with parties of interest to our genre. Tom's musical knowledge is tantamout to the Prog scene on the East coast. He is a major force to be utilized to support and promote the growth and sustainment of Progressive Rock in the United States and abroad. I don't have issues with his talent, knowledge or artistic creativity. But I'd like to see it used more creatively and specifically to OUR end. I don't think we are here to promote 88.9FM. Not to mention that they too broadcast on the internet and anyone can get the same feed (if not a slightly better one at that as it is direct and not mirrored {or whatever you call it} thus reducing the quality of the sound). I find that redundant and not in character of the Flagship of the Prog Radio world (which is what we are IMHO).

I think too many here focus on the medium and not the message.

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

Okay, enough about the present system, except to say, I miss the shows that have fallen by the wayside of late. I would like to seem those spots return or be replaced in a short format. I'll write more in another post about some of the types of shows I'd like to see.

Sean's show I miss. However, I know he's a busy man. He may have burned himself out too trying to cover, sometimes obscure, regions of the world. Perhaps, his show would have benefitted from a 1 hr format with more sequel parts.

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

And lastly, please everyone, understand I respect everyone's efforts towards making AM the best internet radio station. The time, dedication, knowledge, talent and BS&T it takes to do what each of you do is greatly appreciated. Do not think I don't understand or appreciate what you do. I know what it takes and I do appreciate you!!! But I do think we can fine tune everyone's talents and efforts into something better for everyone.

Gracias from one and all.

[OverHillandDale(Admin)]

A couple of new show ideas to toss out into the ring, hat or whatever.

I like the digressive show you mentioned. There are a lot of marginal groups it's nice to hear from.

I was thinking of a weekend morning/early afternoon show in the lines of Psychedelic music - early floyd (well, all floyd), td, space rock, hawkwind and the like. Probably trying to stay more in the late 60's early 70's heady music.

I think someone mentioned an 'electronic' show - that's appealing too.

A show of new releases is a must!

Perhaps a show that focuses on Women's contributions to the Prog scene. Sometimes it can seem way too much testosterone is present in our genre. (besides, maybe we can attract more babes to the station.) (Really, Im just kidding - please don't send the PC police to my house.)

And finally, I'd like to definately see a show like Sean's that features country specific prog (swedish, german, italian, etc). I don't think they have country-western prog.

Just a few ideas to banter about.

Vax, a.d.d. = attention deficit disorder. Short attention spans.
And yes, it is quite an honor to host/share the gags here. And thanks for bringing him aboard. It helped establish our credibility as a serious Prog Rock entity.

[VAXman(Admin)]

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

I was thinking of a weekend morning/early afternoon show in the lines of Psychedelic music - early floyd (well, all floyd), td, space rock, hawkwind and the like. Probably trying to stay more in the late 60's early 70's heady music.

Hmm... the hippy throwback I am finds this idea VERY appealing.

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

Perhaps a show that focuses on Women's contributions to the Prog scene. Sometimes it can seem way too much testosterone is present in our genre. (besides, maybe we can attract more babes to the station.) (Really, Im just kidding - please don't send the PC police to my house.)

I love the female prog acts but I fear this would be very quickly exhausted and stifling catagory.

Originally Posted by OverHillandDale

Vax, a.d.d. = attention deficit disorder. Short attention spans.
And yes, it is quite an honor to host/share the gags here. And thanks for bringing him aboard. It helped establish our credibility as a serious Prog Rock entity.

OK. In terms of the show length... gotcha. Perhaps this is why TV shows are .5 hour in length with the occasional 1 hour segment.

[Cozy]

Hey guys.... remember me?


I have not checked the Moon in the last month or so, but as fate would have it, checked today and came about this thread.

A few things I'd like to comment on...


Interzone has been on hiatus the last few months primarily due to personal issues. There was a period of time where work really got in the way, but then later some health issues with my wife that we're just now pretty much in the clear of.

I work on new shows all the time, but getting them completed and ready to go and on the station just takes time I didn't have. I try to put a lot of effort into the show as opposed to having a random playlist. I have the next 8 shows mapped out in various stages of completion.

Rarely have I ever had a complaint about the 3-hour format. Usually the 3rd hour is devoted to focusing on one recording relevant to the theme of that show. I think you just have those on the Moon that like the idea of the station being 24/7 requestable and in control. And organized programs take time away from that.

I would like to think the wide and eclectic variety of music on Interzone would leave a distinct impression. That said I have to question if it's "missed" when absent. To my knowledge, I've not received one posting in the Interzone forum nor any words of concern or curiosity from the Administration to my e-mail. And this is the first I've heard suggested my show slot is in jeopardy. So that leaves me in the precarious position of deciding if it's worth continuing.

Anyway, I'm just an e-mail or forum post within earshot!

- Cozy

[Rick and Roll]

May I make a suggestion?

Based on Cozy's comments (sounds like a show title) -

I'd like to have Jim's poll done, privately, comprehensively as soon as Jim can. The same few people (including myself) are having this same discussion, and I don't think we are always representative of the feelings of the Moon listeners. Also, I'd hope that the poll is displayed prominiently and we get a good sampling.

Cozy, do not let anything said here sway you're decision. If you are allowed to do your show, do it. I know I appreciate it no matter when you can do it. I base my show on a) if the admin allows, then b) if I have time. I'm busy with the same demands and family issues as others, but I choose to run most every week. That's just me - if you can, do it...

I'm going to recuse myself now from the thread and will read the future comments with interest. Also, I'll await the polls and other inquiries and work with Jim to implement my show in the best possible manner in the future if allowed.

[VAXman(Admin)]

Originally Posted by Cozy

Hey guys.... remember me?

Cozy who?

Originally Posted by Cozy

Interzone has been on hiatus the last few months primarily due to personal issues. There was a period of time where work really got in the way, but then later some health issues with my wife that we're just now pretty much in the clear of.

Hope all's well.

Originally Posted by Cozy

Rarely have I ever had a complaint about the 3-hour format. Usually the 3rd hour is devoted to focusing on one recording relevant to the theme of that show. I think you just have those on the Moon that like the idea of the station being 24/7 requestable and in control. And organized programs take time away from that.

There have been questions from moonies in the shout but, without an answer, I would just say, "You need to ask Cozy."

Originally Posted by Cozy

I would like to think the wide and eclectic variety of music on Interzone would leave a distinct impression. That said I have to question if it's "missed" when absent. To my knowledge, I've not received one posting in the Interzone forum nor any words of concern or curiosity from the Administration to my e-mail. And this is the first I've heard suggested my show slot is in jeopardy. So that leaves me in the precarious position of deciding if it's worth continuing.

Don't let the lack of commentary discourage you. There are those of us who are long time moonies and figure that you are just busy. I know AM is not a job; it's a hobby. There are also many newcomers who simple haven't heard your show and, therefore, wouldn't know it is missing.

[OverHillandDale(Admin)]

Cozy, my NoVa friend, we MISS YOU! Really, we do. But we're a fickle bunch sometimes. Out of sight, out of mind.

I'm sorry to hear about your wife. I hope everything is healed and all are okay. It's never an easy thing to deal with juggling life issues, work, family, etc.

I look forward to having you back on the air. And people have been asking about/for you in the shout. Others miss you too.

So don't give up!

[VAXman(Admin)]

Originally Posted by Yesspaz

As a former show-haver myself, here's my nine cents worth:

A whole 9¢! You big spender you!

Originally Posted by Yesspaz

The other thing is this: shows do not HAVE to be each week.

Precisely. If there was to be a 2 or 3 hour show, once a month would be fine. That way a good show can be compiled to fill out the slot without compromising.

Anyway, I'd personally prefer shorter 1 hour shows if they are to be weekly. As it is right now, the present shows (assuming they all air) consume 1/7th of the weekly air time.

[gr8sho92]

Originally Posted by VAXman

As it is right now, the present shows (assuming they all air) consume 1/7th of the weekly air time.

I'm not surprised at that stat. If you tend to listen frequently, then you are bound to hear a show twice...