Neglected Utopian Energy

Midnight Radio

Midnight Radio
Neglected Utopian Energy
Apr 02, 2026 Episode 43
James A. Reeves

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In its common form, nostalgia is a taunt because it fetishes a time that can never be reclaimed. But when dealing with mid-1990s electronica, perhaps it can also be an invitation. To reclaim the energy from a time when dozens of naive albums were inspired by Koyaanisqatsi or the incense-soaked rhythms of Kingsuk Biswas's Bedouin Ascent project. It was a time of creating for its own sake without an eye on any marketplace or notion of virality. Of making things simply because new tools were there. 

So maybe I’ll just sink into this plush couch with cigarette burns in the cushions while Strange Days plays on mute and someone tells me all about the benefits of globalization and the Information Superhighway.

  1. Introduction: Stonecirclesampler, Air Liquide, Mojave 3, assorted radio static, etc.
  2. Dr. Atmos & Oliver Lieb - Music to Films Movement V
    Music to Films • Fax, 1994
  3. Pete Namlook & Richie Hawtin - Silent Intelligence V
    From Within III • Fax, 1997
  4. Bedouin Ascent - Mammon [Midnight Radio Edit]
    Science, Art, and Ritual • Rising High, 1994 • Bandcamp
  5. Massive Attack vs. Mad Professor - Protection (Radiation Ruling the Nation)
    No Protection • Wild Bunch Records, 1995
  6. B12 - Radiophonic Workshop
    Time Tourist • Warp, 1996 • Bandcamp
  7. Photek - T’raenon Version
    T’raenon • Op-Art, 1996
  8. Bedouin Ascent - Transition R
    Science, Art, and Ritual • Rising High, 1994 • Bandcamp
  9. Makyo - Devabandha
    Rasa Bhava • Silent Records, 1996 • Bandcamp
  10. Epilogue: Stonecirclesampler, Patsy Cline, assorted radio static, etc.

Now I'm in Minneapolis after a viciously turbulent flight because a snowstorm is on the way. They're talking about 8 to 12 inches. I mention this because Midnight Radio seems to be the only deadline I honor and I'm pressing the button at 11:54pm Central Time. It counts.

More importantly, a new version of Spite is available in your local App Store or you can learn more and download it directly here.

The request lines are open.

Enjoy life and get the full Midnight Radio experience delivered directly to your inbox ’round midnight on the 1st and 15th of each month.

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