SlamCast

This week on SlamCast, we’re joined by Fairy Boat, an introspective music project blending R&B, jazz, and indie into a soulfully immersive sound. Led by songwriter and producer Brea Scow, Fairy Boat creates music that’s both emotional and expansive—brought to life with the help of close friends and collaborators. Their debut EP, slow down, was released in early May and showcases the group’s delicate yet powerful musical chemistry.In this episode, we talk about Fairy Boat’s beginnings in the Minneapolis music scene, the project’s future beyond the city, and Brea’s vision for an upcoming Ableton Live set. We also explore the creation of SlamCast, the behind-the-scenes work that built the show, and the meaningful collaboration with co-creator Neil. Plus, we dive into the realities of navigating social media as an emerging artist and staying grounded while growing an authentic brand.#FairyBoat #SlamCast #RnBMusic #IndieJazz #AbletonLive #DebutEP #WomenInMusic #MinneapolisMusic #SlowDownEP #MusicPodcast #EmergingArtists #CreativeJourney #SoulfulSoundFollow Fairy Boat on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/fairyboatmusic?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=NjQwazNpMm5hN3pl Check out Fairy Boat on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/1pgjXCQz9npNgzPmEk8Edj?si=DRxN67B_RjaZ7Np8nzHrcg Check out Brea Scow on Linktr.ee:https://linktr.ee/breascow?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=c05bc94b-fd3a-4989-9533-437ef5e5e97f —————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com#FairyBoat #SlamCast #RnBMusic #IndieJazz #AbletonLive #DebutEP #WomenInMusic #MinneapolisMusic #SlowDownEP #MusicPodcast #EmergingArtists #CreativeJourney #SoulfulSound

In this episode of SlamCast, we sit down with Michaelton — a sound artist, ambient music producer, and artist coach who blends music technology with mindfulness and wellness. Through his entrepreneurship and deep understanding of the creative process, Michaelton helps artists navigate emotional blocks and live more integrated, expressive lives. We dive into his love for ambient music and how sound deeply influences the nervous system, helping create immersive and healing experiences. From sound baths to meditative soundscapes, he shares how he creates space for emotional release and creative clarity through audio — no matter where he is.Michaelton opens up about using meditation, self-awareness, and taking real action on the advice we absorb (like from podcasts!). We talk about fear as the biggest creative block, and how to confront it with intention and courage.This is a must-listen for any artist looking to reconnect with their purpose, break through emotional resistance, and build a creative practice that heals and inspires.Follow Michaelton on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/michaelton.wav/ Check out Michaelbath on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLl_LqQDzeT15k9VoCPsv3qmddj1loQ4cs Check out Michaelton on Linktr.ee:https://linktr.ee/michaelton?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafYb3W-pB5Xaw-xBLjmRpwKLyBBY2m8xF2QRAT64Nnkz1agXDqAxfTH3wS_5g_aem_-PH9eqFAY2-Hh9E8YqFDig—————————————————————Check out the Gateway Tapes guided meditation:https://youtu.be/bE8AB2wGfkQ?si=Igpymdh6FbYVT5Qm —————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com#Michaelton #AmbientMusic #SoundBaths #CreativeWellness #MusicAndMindfulness #ArtistCoach #SlamCast #MusicTechnology #HealingThroughSound #EmotionalBlocks #MeditativeMusic #MindfulCreativity

In this episode of SlamCast, we sit down with Shawn Who, a Native American bass music producer, DJ, and audio engineer who’s carving out a unique lane in the electronic scene by blending tradition with innovation. Fresh off the release of his powerful new track “Still Here” (featuring Thomas X and the Little Bear Singers), Shawn shares the inspiration behind the song and what it means to create music rooted in culture and resilience.We explore his evolution from hip-hop into the experimental bass world, how he transitioned into recording and mixing for other artists, and the process of trusting your path as an artist. Shawn talks about combining modern electronic styles with traditional Indigenous dance music, and how it’s reshaped his connection to rhythm, storytelling, and community. We also dive into his production workflow, the importance of investing in yourself, and where he feels most spiritually connected to his sound. Whether you're a producer, a fan of bass music, or interested in how cultural roots can fuel creativity, this episode offers depth, perspective, and plenty of inspiration.Check out Shawn Who on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/6p8d2h2kj5O3UDStIuD2Br?si=qvV7QUJfTLCcwBUVr-31NA Check out Shawn Who’s Official Website:https://www.shawnwhomusic.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAac9IeO09NkXpWe9N4lZSyO3V6ApeXB4rrh2NYigtdBX0MKaUw0YSlgboPkQIQ_aem_Wve_WhUE8m-SY_uBQMRAZQ Follow Shawn Who on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/shawnwho42?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==—————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com🎧 Subscribe for more episodes with boundary-pushing artists in electronic music!#ShawnWho #BassMusic #NativeAmericanDJ #ElectronicMusic #MusicProduction #IndigenousArtists #HipHopToBass #ExperimentalBass #StillHere #SlamCast #DJCulture #MusicJourney

This week on SlamCast, we’re joined by Maddy O’Neal, a powerhouse bass music producer and DJ known for her electrifying live performances and dynamic production style. In this episode, we dive deep into the touring lifestyle and how Maddy masterfully balances the ebb and flow between life on the road and time in the studio.We talk about her live rig setup and how she crafts her unique sound on stage, plus she shares exclusive details about upcoming projects she’s currently working on—you'll definitely want to hear the inside scoop! Maddy also breaks down the importance of building a strong visual brand, and how reinvention is key to staying inspired and evolving as an artist.We also get into the collaboration process, discussing how working with other creatives fuels her music and growth. If you're an aspiring DJ, producer, or just a fan of the bass music scene, this episode is packed with inspiration, actionable advice, and behind-the-scenes insights from one of the industry's most authentic voices.Don’t forget to subscribe for more interviews with today's leading DJs, producers, and creatives!Check out Maddy O’Neal on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/2G4VZIbfdmr60dYUB0oIxF?si=6VPbD-F-QtWp-_5j51DIJg Check out Maddy O’Neal’s Official Website:https://maddyoneal.com Follow Maddy O’Neal on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/maddy_oneal/?hl=en —————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com#MaddyONeal #BassMusic #MusicProducer #DJLife #TourLife #ElectronicMusic #MusicCollaboration #LivePerformance #WomenInMusic #VisualBranding #MusicProductionTips

This week on SlamCast, we’re joined by Alexis Rose, a house music DJ and producer from the Twin Cities who brings energy, heart, and a deep passion for the scene she’s helped shape. She shares how her journey started in the after-hours haze of a dubstep show and how that moment sparked a love for DJing that’s only grown stronger. Through every challenge, Alexis has remained grounded in gratitude and fueled by the joy of the craft.We talk about how Twitch became a huge part of her career during the pandemic, opening doors and connecting her with new audiences. She opens up about balancing her life as a graphic designer, the genres that resonate most with her behind the decks, and her approach to producing music. We dig into her thoughts on social media, the emotional rollercoaster it can be, and the power of genuine connection over surface-level clout. Alexis also offers insight on the importance of patience, both in your creative journey and in building an authentic community.A beautiful and honest episode with an artist who’s fully in it for the love—tune in and get inspired.Check out Alexis Rose on Sound Cloud:https://soundcloud.com/lexxonlineCheck out Alexis Rose’s Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/lexxonline/Follow Alexis Rose on Twitch:https://www.twitch.tv/lexxonline_—————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com#SlamCast #AlexisRose #HouseMusic #DJLife #WomenInMusic #ElectronicMusic #ProducerLife #TwitchDJ #CreativeJourney #AuthenticityMatters #TwinCitiesMusic

This week on SlamCast, we sit down with Mr. Bill, a multi-genre music producer, DJ, educator, and sound design expert. We take it back to where it all began—his deep-rooted passion for music, sparked by his parents' love for it. He shares how he started making music at 13, first by learning guitar from friends and later experimenting with GarageBand on his parents' iMac. From his early days with Ableton 4 to studying at SAE Institute in Sydney, Mr. Bill talks about his transition from living with his parents to making music on his train commutes and landing show invitations.We also dive into the diversity of his career and how he manages multiple income streams in the music industry. Time management is key—he shares insights on working long hours, staying productive, and avoiding burnout by setting constraints. We discuss his creative process, collaborations, and how sobriety has influenced his artistry and workflow. Plus, he opens up about social media strategies, the benefits of having support in that area, and the visual elements of his live performances, including the artists behind his visuals.This episode is packed with wisdom from one of the industry's most technical and innovative minds—don’t miss it!Check out Mr. Bill’s Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/5JJclMMPi2YgEKjJY9AjbB?si=vuKfHzFVQXiDgdQ2b-2vbg Check out Mr. Bill’s Official Website:https://mrbillstunes.comFollow Mr. Bill on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mrbillstunes/

This week on SlamCast, we sit down with DJ Izzie P, a Twin Cities DJ known for her deep musical knowledge and technical skill. She shares how she first got into DJing by spinning at house parties and immersing herself in the local music scene from an early age. We dive into her experience as a multi-genre DJ, the styles she loves to mix, and what it’s like to DJ at events ranging from club nights to sporting events. Izzie breaks down the key differences between playing for a sports crowd versus a club crowd, how audience attention spans impact her set choices, and the challenge of keeping people engaged. We also talk about the social media side of DJing—how recording yourself can feel unnatural but is essential for promotion, and ways to build an online presence. Plus, Izzie shares the benefits and challenges of throwing your own events and offers valuable advice for the Slam community. Tune in for an insightful conversation on navigating the DJ world, staying adaptable, and making an impact through music!Follow DJ Izzie P on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/djizziep/Check out DJ Izzie P’s Official Website:https://djizziep.com Check out Izzie P’s Linktree:https://linktr.ee/djizziep?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=9bfcf268-bc9d-4414-bd52-e1eddc418f53 —————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com#SlamCast #DJIzzieP #TwinCitiesMusic #MinneapolisDJ #MultiGenreDJ #EventDJ #MusicIndustry #ClubDJ #SportsDJ 

This week on SlamCast, we sit down with Drew Kinkade, the visionary behind Flavor World, a creative brand based in Minneapolis dedicated to empowering and inspiring artists. Drew shares the origins of Flavor World, detailing how the idea was years in the making and how he ultimately chose to pursue it full-time instead of an engineering degree. We dive into the early days of promotion, the power of stickers and video marketing, and the trial-and-error process of finding your own creative style. Drew also discusses how observing other events helps him refine his own, the many moving parts of Flavor World, and how he keeps everything progressing. We explore the journey of launching Flavor World Magazine, an arts and entertainment publication focused on the Twin Cities, and the exciting news of Flavor World being accepted into the Cities Vibrant Storefront Initiative. Drew shares details on the upcoming storefront space, future events, and his advice for creatives—including what he would tell his younger self. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation filled with insight on creativity, entrepreneurship, and community building!Follow Flavor World on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/flavorworld_/Check out Flavor World’s Official Website:https://flavorworld.co/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabIZ6eP3aFbbHDcumtlHtZvb31JCtm7eW70hmSeztooUooIAUb2mnijy_w_aem_KDZ3yYOjF62iwO1uMgWERgFollow Flavor World Records on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/flavorworldrecords/—————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com#SlamCast #FlavorWorld #CreativeCommunity #TwinCitiesArts #MinneapolisCreatives #Entrepreneurship #EventPlanning #IndieMagazine #CreativeInspiration #ArtBusiness #MusicIndustry

Today on SlamCast, we sit down with Hugh Simons AKA Silkwyrm, a bass music producer, DJ, and private lesson instructor at Slam Academy. Hugh is also one half of Seven Swords, a bass music project with Neil McArthur. We talk about his journey into music, from learning instruments to diving into production, and how he balances a technical approach with creative flow. We also explore what Seven Swords means to him and Neil, breaking down their live setup, which includes an electric cello, Ableton Live, and a tracker. Hugh shares insights on the benefits of collaboration, social media strategies for artists, and why consistency and authenticity are key to success. Finally, he offers valuable tips on how to feel more confident in your mixes. Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with advice for producers and artists alike!Follow Hugh on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/silkwyrmbass?igsh=MWZyeDc3ZG9xbXd6MA==Listen to Silkwyrm on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0Zb9FeRz3Ir1gRg7WiQvhN?si=hV2RUxJUQYC_BUiG_yhKKQFollow Seven Swords on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sevenswordssound?igsh=MTc5MjQ0d2JsOXJtcA==—————————————————————Want to learn more about your hosts? FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR:https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/FOLLOW BREA SCOW:https://www.instagram.com/breascow/SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com#SlamCast #Silkwyrm #BassMusic #MusicProduction #SevenSwords #DJLife #AbletonLive #MusicCollaboration #MixingTips #MusicIndustry #ElectronicMusic

In this week’s episode of SlamCast, we sit down with the one and only Nur-D, a powerhouse in the Twin Cities hip-hop scene since 2018. From open mics to stadium performances, Nur-D brings a unique blend of pop culture, geek-chic energy, and raw emotional honesty to his music. His journey is nothing short of inspiring! We dive into how an open mic competition sparked his rap career, how he adapted to the pandemic by pioneering online performances in the Twin Cities, and the evolution of his live shows—including performing with a full band and even the Minnesota Orchestra. We also discuss how a short-form performance with a quartet was EMMY-nominated (a surprise to him!), and his approach to every show with the mindset that “the room is always full.” Nur-D shares invaluable advice for artists, emphasizing the importance of giving every performance your all—because you never know who’s in the crowd or how far they traveled to see you. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with passion, perseverance, and practical wisdom for any aspiring artist! Follow Nur-D on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nurdrocks?igsh=MW96bjFjbGN5NzBlNA== Listen to Nur-D on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1rTZqy2OeunzGGyjQHzzXQ?si=ah5UGrKbRJyftAlKA_BQfw Check out Nur-D’s Official Website:  https://nurdrocks.com ————————————————————— Want to learn more about your hosts?  FOLLOW NEIL MCARTHUR: https://www.instagram.com/n3ilface/ FOLLOW BREA SCOW: https://www.instagram.com/breascow/ SlamCast is produced at Slam Academy, an online and in person music production school based in Minneapolis Minnesota. Find more info about Slam Academy here: https://slamacademy.com #NurD #HipHop #LivePerformance #MusicIndustry #MinnesotaMusic #Slamcast #MusicPodcast #MNOrchestra #IndieArtist #HipHopCommunity