Lecture Notes: Dr. Sam Shepard (Floating Points)

Introduction

• Sam Shepard, also known as Floating Points, introduced.
• Discussed the significance of Talk Talk's last record.
• Dr. Shepard's fascination with the recording techniques used in the album, particularly drums recorded with a single Neumann U47 microphone.

Background

• Sam Shepard is a formally trained pianist, composer, and electronic music producer.
• Origin: Manchester, lives in London.
• Studied pharmacology at university while pursuing music independently.
• Influences include classical and jazz, with inspiration from composers like Debussy, Messiaen, and jazz musicians such as Bill Evans.

Music and Recording Techniques

• Transitioned from classical to jazz and electronic music.
• Early use of studio equipment at school; experimented with sampling everyday sounds.
• Influenced by jazz records acquired from local shops; importance of record stores in music discovery.
• DJing and Influence: Inspired by DJs like Theo Parrish, used mix styles that blend genres and eras.

Sound and Equipment

• Emphasized the importance of recording techniques and experimenting with sound.
• Built a personal studio in London.
• Preference for analog equipment for a richer sound.
• Developed a custom DJ mixer focused on high-quality sound and ergonomics.

Academic and Professional Life

• Completed a PhD in Neuroscience focusing on epigenetics of pain.
• Explored the relationship between peripheral sensory neurons and pain modulation.
• Balanced music career with scientific research.

Record Labels and Collaborations

• Co-founded Eglo Records; releases include artists like Fatima and Shafiq Husayn.
• Enjoys collaborative projects with friends and musicians.

Musical Style and Preferences

• Known for blending modern and vintage sounds in DJ sets.
• Collects records, particularly modern soul and jazz influences.
• Mixes live, unquantized music, learning from experiences in Chicago record shops.

Discussion Topics

• Relationship between science and music; music as a release from academic pressures.
• Exploration of global sounds, including a project in Morocco blending electronic and traditional music.
• Emphasis on music communities for support and musical discovery.

Closing

• Continues to explore and innovate in both scientific and musical fields.
• Audience engaged in questions about musical techniques, personal influences, and future projects.