RedCircle VERIFY_TOKEN_e97e6705-af6d-4d4a-96fb-cfb4ab46c110 -- Rendered At Sun, 05 Apr 2026 03:44:44 +0000 The Essence of Cool https://redcircle.com/shows/the-essence-of-cool en-US All rights reserved. Bernard Frazer The *Essence of Cool* is a podcast that connects with musicians, producers, radio presenters, and music enthusiasts to ask the burning question, "which artists do you call cool ?" Is Kanye cool? How about Billie Eilish, Iggy Pop, or Lemmy? If so, what makes them cool? Of course, everyone has their own definition. What we think is cool may be vastly different from our guests, which can spark some passionate discussion. Join us in our ongoing discovery of *The* *Essence of Cool* e97e6705-af6d-4d4a-96fb-cfb4ab46c110 The Essence of Cool is a podcast that connects with musicians, producers, radio presenters, and music enthusiasts to ask the burning question, "which artists do you call cool?"


Is Kanye cool?


How about Billie Eilish, Iggy Pop, or Lemmy?


If so, what makes them cool? 


Of course, everyone has their own definition.

What we think is cool may be vastly different from our guests, which can spark some passionate discussion. 

Join us in our ongoing discovery of

The Essence of Cool

]]> episodic no Bernard Frazer bernardfrazer@gmx.com no full S2 - Ep 28 - Tim Thorney Part 3 S2 - Ep 28 - Tim Thorney Part 3 Bernard Frazer On this final episode of Season 2, we finish our series on Canadian producer, singer/songwriter Tim Thorney by chatting with his long-time song writing partner, former Much Music VJ, Erica Ehm.

Erica talks to us about how Tim's leap of faith helped transform her from a tv host to an award-winning songwriter and producer.

She also describes how, after 10 years of writing together, Tim politely "broke up" with her to write with and produce Canadian music phenom, Alanis Morissette.

]]> <p>On this final episode of Season 2, we finish our series on Canadian producer, singer/songwriter Tim Thorney by chatting with his long-time song writing partner, former Much Music VJ, Erica Ehm.</p><p>Erica talks to us about how Tim&#39;s leap of faith helped transform her from a tv host to an award-winning songwriter and producer.</p><p>She also describes how, after 10 years of writing together, Tim politely &#34;broke up&#34; with her to write with and produce Canadian music phenom, Alanis Morissette.</p> 1f0c13b3-94af-404d-8dc7-d8f0b8d813f7 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 15 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000 3129 no full S2 - Ep 27 - Tim Thorney Part 2 S2 - Ep 27 - Tim Thorney Part 2 Bernard Frazer On Part 2 of our series celebrating the life and legacy of Canadian producer, singer, songwriter Tim Thorney, we catch up with drummer to the stars Randy Cooke (Ringo Starr, Dave Stewart, Alanis Morissette etc) who discusses his 20-plus year history with Tim, working on jingles, Alanis Morissette songs, albums by other artists, and Tim’s own solo releases.

We also chat with Juno-award winning engineer, producer, songwriter, Hill Kourkoutis who Tim called “the future” of music. 

]]> <p>On Part 2 of our series celebrating the life and legacy of Canadian producer, singer, songwriter Tim Thorney, we catch up with drummer to the stars Randy Cooke (Ringo Starr, Dave Stewart, Alanis Morissette etc) who discusses his 20-plus year history with Tim, working on jingles, Alanis Morissette songs, albums by other artists, and Tim’s own solo releases. </p><p>We also chat with Juno-award winning engineer, producer, songwriter, Hill Kourkoutis who Tim called “the future” of music. </p> 7f172020-1881-4071-8615-bf0a17df2899 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 25 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000 3723 no full S2 - Ep 26 - Tim Thorney Part 1 S2 - Ep 26 - Tim Thorney Part 1 Bernard Frazer Tim Thorney isn’t a household name, but perhaps he should be. The late singer/songwriter/producer worked with the likes of Alanis Morrisette, Lisa Dalbello, Burton Cummings, Jimmy Rankin and more. He also wrote some of the most memorable beer and car jingles, the type that got stuck in your heard for days. He won daytime Emmy, Gemini, and Juno awards, but it was his mentorship of and faith in the artists and musicians he worked with that truly defined him.

During her induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Tim’s dear friend Alanis Morissette described him as the “ultimate port in the storm”, one of a very few individuals who would simply hold space for you. But he was also a musical genius.

On this first of a 3-part series, we speak to Tim’s younger brother Tom about growing up in Winnipeg and watching him come to prominence as one of the most sought after music producers in the business, and his work with Alanis Morissette. Then we’ll talk to Adam Fair, Tim’s partner in Villa Sound, the studio where Tim would record his final album “Villa Freud”.

]]> <p>Tim Thorney isn’t a household name, but perhaps he should be. The late singer/songwriter/producer worked with the likes of Alanis Morrisette, Lisa Dalbello, Burton Cummings, Jimmy Rankin and more. He also wrote some of the most memorable beer and car jingles, the type that got stuck in your heard for days. He won daytime Emmy, Gemini, and Juno awards, but it was his mentorship of and faith in the artists and musicians he worked with that truly defined him.</p><p>During her induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Tim’s dear friend Alanis Morissette described him as the “ultimate port in the storm”, one of a very few individuals who would simply hold space for you. But he was also a musical genius.</p><p>On this first of a 3-part series, we speak to Tim’s younger brother Tom about growing up in Winnipeg and watching him come to prominence as one of the most sought after music producers in the business, and his work with Alanis Morissette. Then we’ll talk to Adam Fair, Tim’s partner in Villa Sound, the studio where Tim would record his final album “Villa Freud”.</p> 2517feff-78ff-4529-933d-564773a0f3e6 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 11 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000 4927 yes full S2 - Ep 25 - Aaron Badgley S2 - Ep 25 - Aaron Badgley Bernard Frazer On this episode, we catch up with DJ, podcaster, and music journalist, Aaron Badgley.

You might know Aaron from his radio shows The Wayback Music Machine and From Memphis to Merseyside along with my good friend Tony Stuart, or from The Backwards Traveller Radio Show on Perturb Radio and Here Today on CFRU FM . He also contributes album reviews and interviews to Canada’s Spill Magazine.

On this show, he walks us through his Top Ten Cool artists of 2022. Some you know well, and some you may not, from Neil Arthur, Brian Eno, and Men Without Hats, to The Mary Wallopers, Sparks and Soundwalk Collective. He’ll also give us a peek at some artists to watch for in 2023, like the great pop experimentalist Selina Martin.

]]> <p>On this episode, we catch up with DJ, podcaster, and music journalist, Aaron Badgley.</p><p>You might know Aaron from his radio shows The Wayback Music Machine and From Memphis to Merseyside along with my good friend Tony Stuart, or from The Backwards Traveller Radio Show on Perturb Radio and Here Today on CFRU FM . He also contributes album reviews and interviews to Canada’s Spill Magazine.</p><p>On this show, he walks us through his Top Ten Cool artists of 2022. Some you know well, and some you may not, from Neil Arthur, Brian Eno, and Men Without Hats, to The Mary Wallopers, Sparks and Soundwalk Collective. He’ll also give us a peek at some artists to watch for in 2023, like the great pop experimentalist Selina Martin.</p> 5dffa119-dbc1-486b-94b9-a277e4455e49 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 25 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000 4884 no full S2 - Ep 24 - Selina Martin S2 - Ep 24 - Selina Martin Bernard Frazer When journalists write about Selina Martin’s music, they use words like "masterful", "genius" , "profound" , and "superb", and I would agree with every single one, only venturing to add “breathtaking”.

Such is the case for her latest album “Time Spent Swimming”, which explores the art of songwriting and production in ways most artists never imagine.

She’s been compared to David Byrne, St. Vincent, Eno, and Bjork… and, in very David Bowie-esque fashion, she says art is about taking risks.

In this episode, we explore those risks as we take a very deep dive into one of the most remarkable albums I’ve heard in decades. 

]]> <p>When journalists write about Selina Martin’s music, they use words like &#34;masterful&#34;, &#34;genius&#34; , &#34;profound&#34; , and &#34;superb&#34;, and I would agree with every single one, only venturing to add “breathtaking”.</p><p>Such is the case for her latest album “Time Spent Swimming”, which explores the art of songwriting and production in ways most artists never imagine.</p><p>She’s been compared to David Byrne, St. Vincent, Eno, and Bjork… and, in very David Bowie-esque fashion, she says art is about taking risks.</p><p>In this episode, we explore those risks as we take a very deep dive into one of the most remarkable albums I’ve heard in decades. </p> 993dc8a6-b043-4ec1-b0b9-43c8de6c39ca https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 11 Feb 2023 07:00:00 +0000 4308 yes full S2 - Ep 23 - Jessica Lee Morgan S2 - Ep 23 - Jessica Lee Morgan Bernard Frazer Her father is iconic David Bowie/Marc Bolan producer Tony Visconti and her mother is famed Those Were The Days singer Mary Hopkin. But those facts have not given Jessica Lee Morgan a free ride to fame for her own music. In fact, she has found praise for her 5 delicious albums the old fashioned way, through a gruelling concert schedule and endless hard work.

On this episode, Jessica tells us how her music career got started, about working with her dad on the Holy Holy tours, writing and producing a new album for her mother, and we examine her own gorgeous releases from her 2010 debut “I Am Not” through to her latest, the slick and beautifully produced/performed electropop album “Change the Record”. We also delve into her work as a practitioner of the Alexander Technique, and her essence of cool picks The Blow Monkeys and cult icon Robyn Hitchcock.

]]> <p>Her father is iconic David Bowie/Marc Bolan producer Tony Visconti and her mother is famed Those Were The Days singer Mary Hopkin. But those facts have not given Jessica Lee Morgan a free ride to fame for her own music. In fact, she has found praise for her 5 delicious albums the old fashioned way, through a gruelling concert schedule and endless hard work.</p><p>On this episode, Jessica tells us how her music career got started, about working with her dad on the Holy Holy tours, writing and producing a new album for her mother, and we examine her own gorgeous releases from her 2010 debut “I Am Not” through to her latest, the slick and beautifully produced/performed electropop album “Change the Record”. We also delve into her work as a practitioner of the Alexander Technique, and her essence of cool picks The Blow Monkeys and cult icon Robyn Hitchcock.</p> 30bc49f2-2782-45ac-9180-d8eeef81e75c https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 28 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000 6017 no full S2 - Ep 22 - Leslie Stanwyck S2 - Ep 22 - Leslie Stanwyck Bernard Frazer In the late 80s and early 90s, Leslie Stanwyck was known as a member of Canadian power pop band The Pursuit of Happiness. But in 1992, She and her partner Johnny Sinclair broke out on their own to form Universal Honey, who, 30 years later are on the cusp of releasing their 8th album, "Dandelion".

Their music has been on the charts north and south of the border, been placed in movies and tv shows like Searching For Debra Winger and Degrassi The Next Generation, they've shared the stage with The Eurythmics, Googoo Dolls, and Duran Duran, and branched off into other genres with their projects Tucker Lane and The Bod.

On this episode, we discuss all of that, their work with producer Todd Rundgren, songwriting on the road, and her essence of cool pick, the legend, Keith Records.

]]> <p>In the late 80s and early 90s, Leslie Stanwyck was known as a member of Canadian power pop band The Pursuit of Happiness. But in 1992, She and her partner Johnny Sinclair broke out on their own to form Universal Honey, who, 30 years later are on the cusp of releasing their 8th album, &#34;Dandelion&#34;.</p><p>Their music has been on the charts north and south of the border, been placed in movies and tv shows like Searching For Debra Winger and Degrassi The Next Generation, they&#39;ve shared the stage with The Eurythmics, Googoo Dolls, and Duran Duran, and branched off into other genres with their projects Tucker Lane and The Bod.</p><p>On this episode, we discuss all of that, their work with producer Todd Rundgren, songwriting on the road, and her essence of cool pick, the legend, Keith Records.</p> b3c6ccd6-b7c7-405f-9f16-9fde9f48366b https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 14 Jan 2023 07:00:00 +0000 5418 no full S2 - Ep 21 - Doug Hempstead S2 - Ep 21 - Doug Hempstead Bernard Frazer Listeners in Canada's Ottawa area will know Doug Hempstead as the CBC Traffic Reporter who also has a long history as a TV and print journalist around the Province of Ontario. But in the world of music, he is better known as the force behind Indie rock project, Area Resident.

Since 2016, he has cranked out 7 albums, including 2022's Polycanard, a collection of unreleased demos dating back to 2003.

In this episode, we discuss the real-life stories behind such Area Resident songs as 'Six Domestic Calls' and 'In Your Pepper', his new deal with Surkeus Records, Doug's longtime friendship and collaborations with Blinker The Star's Jordon Zadorozny, and his Essence of Cool picks: Chrissie Hynde and Wayne Coyne.

]]> <p>Listeners in Canada&#39;s Ottawa area will know Doug Hempstead as the CBC Traffic Reporter who also has a long history as a TV and print journalist around the Province of Ontario. But in the world of music, he is better known as the force behind Indie rock project, Area Resident.</p><p>Since 2016, he has cranked out 7 albums, including 2022&#39;s Polycanard, a collection of unreleased demos dating back to 2003.</p><p>In this episode, we discuss the real-life stories behind such Area Resident songs as &#39;Six Domestic Calls&#39; and &#39;In Your Pepper&#39;, his new deal with Surkeus Records, Doug&#39;s longtime friendship and collaborations with Blinker The Star&#39;s Jordon Zadorozny, and his Essence of Cool picks: Chrissie Hynde and Wayne Coyne.</p> f6b31fbd-365e-4d52-91bd-91874fc473db https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 31 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000 4606 yes full S2 - Ep 20 - Vicki Brittle S2 - Ep 20 - Vicki Brittle Bernard Frazer On this episode, we catch up with one of the most interesting, smart, and gifted new artists in Canadian music, the uber-talented Vicki Brittle.

Apart from her engaging songwriting, distinctive voice, and massive Spotify numbers, Vicki is a fierce advocate for mental health. We talk about her skyrocketing career, her record deal with Coalition Music, and her collaborations with country star Kelly Prescott, Magic!'s Alex Tannas, and songwriting superstar Haley Gene Penner. As well, we chat about her 'cool' pick, the legendary Paul Simon.

]]> <p>On this episode, we catch up with one of the most interesting, smart, and gifted new artists in Canadian music, the uber-talented Vicki Brittle.</p><p>Apart from her engaging songwriting, distinctive voice, and massive Spotify numbers, Vicki is a fierce advocate for mental health. We talk about her skyrocketing career, her record deal with Coalition Music, and her collaborations with country star Kelly Prescott, Magic!&#39;s Alex Tannas, and songwriting superstar Haley Gene Penner. As well, we chat about her &#39;cool&#39; pick, the legendary Paul Simon.</p> e65489f8-28a8-428a-acf1-642f51fdb3a3 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 17 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000 6244 no full S2 - Ep 19 - June Millington S2 - Ep 19 - June Millington Bernard Frazer June Millington is co-founder and lead guitarist of the all-female rock band Fanny, about whom David Bowie said “they were extraordinary: They wrote everything, they played like (mofos), they were just colossal and wonderful”.

Millington has been called "a godmother of women's music", She is also the co-founder and artistic director of the Institute for the Musical Arts (IMA) in Goshen, Massachusetts.

In this episode, we talk about Fanny’s rise and fall, and rise again, the extraordinary Bobbi Jo Hart documentary “Fanny: The Right to Rock”, and Millington’s latest album “snapshots”, which feature’s the iconic Bowie guitarist Earl Slick.

]]> <p><span>June Millington is co-founder and lead guitarist of the all-female rock band </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fanny_(band)" rel="nofollow">Fanny</a><span>, about whom David Bowie said “they were extraordinary: They wrote everything, they played like (mofos), they were just colossal and wonderful”.</span></p><p><span>Millington has been called &#34;a godmother of </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women%27s_music" rel="nofollow">women&#39;s music</a><span>&#34;, She is also the co-founder and artistic director of the Institute for the Musical Arts (IMA) in </span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goshen,_Massachusetts" rel="nofollow">Goshen, Massachusetts</a><span>.</span></p><p><span>In this episode, we talk about Fanny’s rise and fall, and rise again, the extraordinary Bobbi Jo Hart documentary “Fanny: The Right to Rock”, and Millington’s latest album “snapshots”, which feature’s the iconic Bowie guitarist Earl Slick.</span></p> 9fa8dd4a-6593-4764-95bf-9c2fcbf07cc0 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 03 Dec 2022 07:00:00 +0000 4692 no full S2 - Ep 18 - Ivan Doroschuk S2 - Ep 18 - Ivan Doroschuk Bernard Frazer Ivan Doroschuk is best known as the leader of Canada's premier synthpop band, Men Without Hats. Their enduring classics "Safety Dance" and "Pop Goes the World" have been radio favourites for 40 years.

This year, the 'Hats' celebrate the 40th anniversary of their breakout album "Rhythm of Youth". They recently released their latest album, "Again, Part 2" and continue to tour the world.

On this episode, Ivan tells us how the band morphed from a Cramps cover band, to one of the world's most celebrated electropop acts. He fills us in on the making of their latest releases, and talks about how the great Howard Jones taught him how to not just endure but revel in life on the road.


]]> <p>Ivan Doroschuk is best known as the leader of Canada&#39;s premier synthpop band, Men Without Hats. Their enduring classics &#34;Safety Dance&#34; and &#34;Pop Goes the World&#34; have been radio favourites for 40 years.</p><p>This year, the &#39;Hats&#39; celebrate the 40th anniversary of their breakout album &#34;Rhythm of Youth&#34;. They recently released their latest album, &#34;Again, Part 2&#34; and continue to tour the world.</p><p>On this episode, Ivan tells us how the band morphed from a Cramps cover band, to one of the world&#39;s most celebrated electropop acts. He fills us in on the making of their latest releases, and talks about how the great Howard Jones taught him how to not just endure but revel in life on the road.</p><p><br></p> 20b3fc4a-e5bb-4740-a421-228820ff1a2a https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 19 Nov 2022 07:00:00 +0000 3661 no full S2-Ep17-Jay Semkio S2-Ep17-Jay Semkio Bernard Frazer Jay Semko is a founding member of Canada's The Northern Pikes, whose 7 albums have spawned multiple hit singles, including Teenland, The Things I do For Money, and She Ain't Pretty.

Jay has released 11 solo albums, and has been nominated for 8 Juno and 2 Gemini Awards, has released a book "The Poetry and Lyrics of Jay Semko", and has written music for multiple films and television shows.

On this episode, Jay talks about the Pikes' early years, the challenge to keep a band together for nearly 40 years, songwriting, and his struggle with alcohol and mental health.

Let's get started!

]]> <p>Jay Semko is a founding member of Canada&#39;s The Northern Pikes, whose 7 albums have spawned multiple hit singles, including Teenland, The Things I do For Money, and She Ain&#39;t Pretty.</p><p>Jay has released 11 solo albums, and has been nominated for 8 Juno and 2 Gemini Awards, has released a book &#34;The Poetry and Lyrics of Jay Semko&#34;, and has written music for multiple films and television shows.</p><p>On this episode, Jay talks about the Pikes&#39; early years, the challenge to keep a band together for nearly 40 years, songwriting, and his struggle with alcohol and mental health.</p><p>Let&#39;s get started!</p> b1c7dfc1-0ae5-4f47-95a9-6d808c7f00c4 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 05 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000 4786 no full S2 - Ep 16 - Phil Thornalley S2 - Ep 16 - Phil Thornalley Bernard Frazer On this episode, we chat with producer, engineer, songwriter, and bass player, Phil Thornalley. He is best known for producing The Cure's Pornography album as well as their hit single Lovecats.

He has mixed/engineered albums by The Psychedelic Furs, Duran Duran, Thompson Twins, Prefab Sprout, and more. He has collaborated on songs by Canadian powerhouse Bryan Adams, and he co-wrote and produced Natalie Imbruglia's Torn.

On this episode, he walks through all of that and discusses his Rundgren-inspired Astral Drive albums and his new solo effort "Now That I Have Your Attention".

]]> <p>On this episode, we chat with producer, engineer, songwriter, and bass player, Phil Thornalley. He is best known for producing The Cure&#39;s Pornography album as well as their hit single Lovecats.</p><p>He has mixed/engineered albums by The Psychedelic Furs, Duran Duran, Thompson Twins, Prefab Sprout, and more. He has collaborated on songs by Canadian powerhouse Bryan Adams, and he co-wrote and produced Natalie Imbruglia&#39;s Torn.</p><p>On this episode, he walks through all of that and discusses his Rundgren-inspired Astral Drive albums and his new solo effort &#34;Now That I Have Your Attention&#34;.</p> 03376451-84e2-4b0f-9465-5ec0f7faaf8f https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 22 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000 5282 no full S2-Ep 15 - Kevin Hearn S2-Ep 15 - Kevin Hearn Bernard Frazer Kevin Hearn joins us to discuss his 25-plus years with the multi-platinum selling Barenaked Ladies, his battle with Leukemia, Kevin's 9 fabulous solo records including his latest "There and Then", his work with Jaymz Bee and Look People, Rheostatics, Violent Femmes, and his 7 years as a bandmember for the legendary Lou Reed.

Its no surprise that his choice for the "essence of cool" was Lou Reed, and our conversation goes deeply into Lou's work, life, and love, particularly his wife, avant-garde composer Laurie Anderson.

]]> <p>Kevin Hearn joins us to discuss his 25-plus years with the multi-platinum selling Barenaked Ladies, his battle with Leukemia, Kevin&#39;s 9 fabulous solo records including his latest &#34;There and Then&#34;, his work with Jaymz Bee and Look People, Rheostatics, Violent Femmes, and his 7 years as a bandmember for the legendary Lou Reed.</p><p>Its no surprise that his choice for the &#34;essence of cool&#34; was Lou Reed, and our conversation goes deeply into Lou&#39;s work, life, and love, particularly his wife, avant-garde composer Laurie Anderson.</p> 02426f5a-45a8-4aaf-8140-2a268cfc018f https://theessenceofcool.com/ Sat, 08 Oct 2022 06:00:00 +0000 4479 no full S1_E14 Tony Stuart S1_E14 Tony Stuart 14 1 Bernard Frazer On the final episode of season one, we chat with musician, podcaster, music teacher, Tony Stuart.

Tony is a multi-instrumentalist currently performing with the jazz duo The Somerset Combo (with Ric Denis). He is the producer and co-host of a fascinating music podcast called the Way Back Music Machine Podcast. Along with music writer/radio host Aaron Badgley, they give context to some of the greatest moments in music history and, every once in a while, pick up a musical hitchhiker, like me.

Tony also teaches high school music and conducts for stage band and orchestra.

On Episode 14, he makes his case for why jazz legend Miles Davis, pop stars Hall and Oates, and The Beatles are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On the final episode of season one, we chat with musician, podcaster, music teacher, Tony Stuart.</p><p>Tony is a multi-instrumentalist currently performing with the jazz duo The Somerset Combo (with Ric Denis). He is the producer and co-host of a fascinating music podcast called the Way Back Music Machine Podcast. Along with music writer/radio host Aaron Badgley, they give context to some of the greatest moments in music history and, every once in a while, pick up a musical hitchhiker, like me.</p><p>Tony also teaches high school music and conducts for stage band and orchestra.</p><p>On Episode 14, he makes his case for why jazz legend Miles Davis, pop stars Hall and Oates, and The Beatles are the essence of cool.</p> 583cb800-4e59-468d-8efa-dc2400aac0b9 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 13 Aug 2021 10:00:00 +0000 3343 no full S1_E13_AnneMarieBrugger S1_E13_AnneMarieBrugger 13 1 Bernard Frazer On this episode, we chat with Anne Marie Brugger who is a Canadian arts reporter, radio broadcaster, public speaker, and event emcee, who has been part of the music landscape in Canada's capital, Ottawa, for over 20 years. She can be heard on 2 radio stations (CHUO FM/CKCU FM), she has a column in Ottawa Life Magazine, and she has interviewed everyone from Carole Pope and Orville Peck, to Our Lady Peace and Serena Ryder. She is a massive supporter of emerging musical talent, and is director of several music-oriented boards.

On this episode, she tells us why Patti Smith, Debbie Harry, and Joan Jett are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On this episode, we chat with Anne Marie Brugger who is a Canadian arts reporter, radio broadcaster, public speaker, and event emcee, who has been part of the music landscape in Canada&#39;s capital, Ottawa, for over 20 years. She can be heard on 2 radio stations (CHUO FM/CKCU FM), she has a column in Ottawa Life Magazine, and she has interviewed everyone from Carole Pope and Orville Peck, to Our Lady Peace and Serena Ryder. She is a massive supporter of emerging musical talent, and is director of several music-oriented boards.</p><p>On this episode, she tells us why Patti Smith, Debbie Harry, and Joan Jett are the essence of cool.</p> 11b61706-5598-4915-9be2-27d479a851ed https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 06 Aug 2021 09:00:00 +0000 4760 no full S1E12 - Aaron Badgley S1E12 - Aaron Badgley 12 1 Bernard Frazer On this episode, we catch up with radio personality, podcaster, and music journalist, Aaron Badgley.

Aaron is known for his massive love of the Beatles, which is evident by his long-running radio show Beatles Universe. He has also written, produced, and hosted many other radio shows including his current program Backwards Traveler on PerturbRadio. 

He is also a music journalist, currently writing reviews and features for Toronto’s Spill Magazine. And if that wasn’t enough, he co-hosts not one but 2 podcasts with Tony Stuart, The Wayback Music Machine and Before My Time!

On this episode, Aaron tells why Roxy Music’s Bryan Ferry, the legendary Bob Dylan, and Prefab Sprout’s Paddy McAloon are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On this episode, we catch up with radio personality, podcaster, and music journalist, Aaron Badgley.</p><p>Aaron is known for his massive love of the Beatles, which is evident by his long-running radio show Beatles Universe. He has also written, produced, and hosted many other radio shows including his current program Backwards Traveler on PerturbRadio. </p><p>He is also a music journalist, currently writing reviews and features for Toronto’s Spill Magazine. And if that wasn’t enough, he co-hosts not one but 2 podcasts with Tony Stuart, The Wayback Music Machine and Before My Time!</p><p>On this episode, Aaron tells why Roxy Music’s Bryan Ferry, the legendary Bob Dylan, and Prefab Sprout’s Paddy McAloon are the essence of cool.</p> cf84d80f-2b83-445b-9a93-791b3f21bb26 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 30 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000 4023 no full S1E11- Lynne Hanson S1E11- Lynne Hanson 11 1 Bernard Frazer On this episode, we chat with Canadian singer/songwriter, Lynne Hanson. Lynne has released 5 albums and has toured Canada and around the world as a solo act and as one half of The LYNNeS (alongside Juno award-winner Lynn Miles). Lynne has been nominated for numerous music awards and has won the Colleen Peterson Songwriting Award as a solo act and 2 Canadian Folk Music Awards as part of the LYNNeS.

On this episode, she makes her case for why the great Buddy Miller, consumate jazz artist Keith Jarrett, and Americana singer/songwriter Patty Griffin are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On this episode, we chat with Canadian singer/songwriter, Lynne Hanson. Lynne has released 5 albums and has toured Canada and around the world as a solo act and as one half of The LYNNeS (alongside Juno award-winner Lynn Miles). Lynne has been nominated for numerous music awards and has won the Colleen Peterson Songwriting Award as a solo act and 2 Canadian Folk Music Awards as part of the LYNNeS.</p><p>On this episode, she makes her case for why the great Buddy Miller, consumate jazz artist Keith Jarrett, and Americana singer/songwriter Patty Griffin are the essence of cool.</p> 037c7948-3b9c-449b-9e46-49eb451586ca https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 16 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000 4035 no full S1E10 - Gerry Young S1E10 - Gerry Young 10 1 Bernard Frazer On this episode, Bernard talks to Gerry Young, owner of the Canadian independent record label and management company, Current Records. Gerry’s journey in the music business started as a promoter when he hired master bluesman Johnny Winter and legendary rockers The Kinks to play his university.

Later hired by iconic record label Polygram, he acted as Promotions Manager and A&R consultant, and became the Candian liason for such monster acts as Frank Zappa, Kiss, Peter Gabriel, and the BeeGees. Under his own label, Current Records, he signed two Juno-award winning artists: Martha & the Muffins and The Parachute Club. He also signed Vancouver’s Strange Advance, Molly Johnson and Alta Moda, and Boomtown Rats guitarist Gerry Cott. 

Gerry Young also manages several Canadian artists, authored his memoir, Pop Goes The Weasel: Rock And Roll Off The Record, and he writes for Toronto’s Spill Magazine. On today’s show, he makes a case for why Frank Zappa and The Kinks are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On this episode, Bernard talks to Gerry Young, owner of the Canadian independent record label and management company, Current Records. Gerry’s journey in the music business started as a promoter when he hired master bluesman Johnny Winter and legendary rockers The Kinks to play his university.</p><p>Later hired by iconic record label Polygram, he acted as Promotions Manager and A&amp;R consultant, and became the Candian liason for such monster acts as Frank Zappa, Kiss, Peter Gabriel, and the BeeGees. Under his own label, Current Records, he signed two Juno-award winning artists: Martha &amp; the Muffins and The Parachute Club. He also signed Vancouver’s Strange Advance, Molly Johnson and Alta Moda, and Boomtown Rats guitarist Gerry Cott. </p><p>Gerry Young also manages several Canadian artists, authored his memoir, Pop Goes The Weasel: Rock And Roll Off The Record, and he writes for Toronto’s Spill Magazine. On today’s show, he makes a case for why Frank Zappa and The Kinks are the essence of cool.</p> 3e3a6a36-03f1-4d89-b1a1-f04e7a7f67a0 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 09 Jul 2021 12:00:00 +0000 2986 no full S1E9 David Yazbeck S1E9 David Yazbeck 9 1 Bernard Frazer On this episode, we chat with Radio DJ and amateur musicologist, David Yazbeck.

If you live in Canada’s capital city Ottawa, you’ll know David from his long-running radio show Thursday Special Blend on CKCU-FM. A veritable institution, David's show has been on the air for 16 years, introducing Canadians to a multitude of musical talent, from local indie bands to award-winning international artists. With an encyclopedic knowledge of music, his tastes range from rock, punk, and post-punk, to ambient, experimental, and jazz.

On this episode, David makes his case for why The National, Sonic Youth, and punk icons, The Clash are, the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On this episode, we chat with Radio DJ and amateur musicologist, David Yazbeck.</p><p>If you live in Canada’s capital city Ottawa, you’ll know David from his long-running radio show Thursday Special Blend on CKCU-FM. A veritable institution, David&#39;s show has been on the air for 16 years, introducing Canadians to a multitude of musical talent, from local indie bands to award-winning international artists. With an encyclopedic knowledge of music, his tastes range from rock, punk, and post-punk, to ambient, experimental, and jazz. </p><p>On this episode, David makes his case for why The National, Sonic Youth, and punk icons, The Clash are, the essence of cool.</p> 329ab251-b062-4815-9877-c49fad9e46e7 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 18 Jun 2021 11:30:00 +0000 3850 no full S1E8 Christopher Ward S1E8 Christopher Ward Bernard Frazer On this episode of the Essence of Cool, we chat with singer, songwriter, podcaster, blogger, and author, Christopher Ward.

Chris has written songs for Diana Ross, Hilary Duff, Wynonna Judd, The Backstreet Boys, and many others. But his best-known song is the worldwide #1 hit for Alannah Myles, “Black Velvet”, which garnered him the 1990 Juno award for Songwriter of the Year.

In 1984, after a stint in the Second City Touring Company, he helped launch MuchMusic as Canada’s very first VJ and wrote a book about it called Is This Live. He has contributed numerous songs to tv soundtracks, such as Instant Star, and he can be seen in all 3 Austin Powers movies as a member of Austin’s band, Ming Tea.

On this show he makes a case for why Leonard Cohen and Sade are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On this episode of the Essence of Cool, we chat with singer, songwriter, podcaster, blogger, and author, Christopher Ward.</p><p>Chris<strong> </strong>has written songs for Diana Ross, Hilary Duff, Wynonna Judd, The Backstreet Boys, and many others. But his best-known song is the worldwide #1 hit for Alannah Myles, “Black Velvet”, which garnered him the 1990 Juno award for Songwriter of the Year.</p><p>In 1984, after a stint in the Second City Touring Company, he helped launch MuchMusic as Canada’s very first VJ and wrote a book about it called Is This Live. He has contributed numerous songs to tv soundtracks, such as Instant Star, and he can be seen in all 3 Austin Powers movies as a member of Austin’s band, Ming Tea.</p><p>On this show he makes a case for why Leonard Cohen and Sade are the essence of cool.</p> a12ad4bc-3ec9-48e8-89a9-d6e51cd95f9e https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 04 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000 4213 no full S1_E7 Stuart Calder S1_E7 Stuart Calder 7 1 Bernard Frazer On this episode, we talk with UK radio presenter Stuart Calder whose program The Electro Wave Show, on Artefaktor Radio, celebrates synth-based music, with a focus on tracks from independent artists. The Electro Wave Show draws an audience from the 4 corners of the globe, and it is a perfect platform to demonstrate Stuart’s profound knowledge of electronic music.


On this episode, he tells us why Depeche Mode and Simple Minds are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>On this episode, we talk with UK radio presenter Stuart Calder whose program The Electro Wave Show, on Artefaktor Radio, celebrates synth-based music, with a focus on tracks from independent artists. The Electro Wave Show draws an audience from the 4 corners of the globe, and it is a perfect platform to demonstrate Stuart’s profound knowledge of electronic music. </p><p><br></p><p>On this episode, he tells us why Depeche Mode and Simple Minds are the essence of cool.</p> a1e20eaa-9599-47d1-8fa9-1411075928f8 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 14 May 2021 03:30:00 +0000 4233 no full S1E6-Blair Packham S1E6-Blair Packham Bernard Frazer Blair Packham leapt into view of the music-buying public as the lead singer of 80s power pop band The Jitters. He has released three superb solo albums, including 2017’s Unpopular Pop, and has composed for TV and films, taught songwriting, and co-hosted the long-running radio show “In the Studio”. He has worked with the likes of the Juno-award-winning Ron Sexsmith, ex-Bare Naked Ladies singer Steven Page, and The Odd’s Craig Northey.


On this episode, Blair explains why country legend Dolly Parton, rapper Keysha Freshh, and the iconic Steve Earle are The Essence of Cool!

]]> <p>Blair Packham leapt into view of the music-buying public as the lead singer of 80s power pop band The Jitters. He has released three superb solo albums, including 2017’s Unpopular Pop, and has composed for TV and films, taught songwriting, and co-hosted the long-running radio show “In the Studio”. He has worked with the likes of the Juno-award-winning Ron Sexsmith, ex-Bare Naked Ladies singer Steven Page, and The Odd’s Craig Northey.</p><p><br></p><p>On this episode, Blair explains why country legend Dolly Parton, rapper Keysha Freshh, and the iconic Steve Earle are The Essence of Cool!</p> 8aae402a-3980-424e-b22b-03bdcb9e15b9 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 30 Apr 2021 12:00:00 +0000 5135 no full S1E5-Keysha Freshh S1E5-Keysha Freshh 5 1 Bernard Frazer In this episode, we chat with rapper, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, Keysha Freshh. Keysha started writing and rapping at age 11. She is a celebrated solo artist and 1/3 of the group The Sorority. She has worked with the likes of Doug E. Fresh and Saukrates, and toured with Wu Tang and Snoop Dogg.


On this episode, she tells us why mega-star Jay-Z and the iconic Bahamadia are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>In this episode, we chat with rapper, songwriter, producer, entrepreneur, Keysha Freshh. Keysha started writing and rapping at age 11. She is a celebrated solo artist and 1/3 of the group The Sorority. She has worked with the likes of Doug E. Fresh and Saukrates, and toured with Wu Tang and Snoop Dogg.</p><p><br></p><p>On this episode, she tells us why mega-star Jay-Z and the iconic Bahamadia are the essence of cool.</p> b55a388e-6a9f-4b7d-9728-694c1ae7198a https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 16 Apr 2021 13:00:00 +0000 3281 no full S1E4-Jordon Zadorozny S1E4-Jordon Zadorozny Bernard Frazer In Episode 4, we chat with the great Jordon Zadorozny. Jordon is a brilliant singer, songwriter and recording artist (check out his Blinker The Star and SheLoom projects), a masterful producer, multi-instrumentalist (check out Conduit of Humanity Recording Project with the great Fred Jeske), and he's the hugely talented owner of Skylark Park Studio (my 2nd fave place ever).


He has worked with Sam Roberts Band, Courtney Love, Lindsey Buckingham, the late Chris Cornell and more.

I am very proud to say he has also been the audio guru behind pretty much all Church of Trees original works.


This week, he makes a brilliant case for why Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and the exquisite Prince are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>In Episode 4, we chat with the great Jordon Zadorozny. Jordon is a brilliant singer, songwriter and recording artist (check out his Blinker The Star and SheLoom projects), a masterful producer, multi-instrumentalist (check out Conduit of Humanity Recording Project with the great Fred Jeske), and he&#39;s the hugely talented owner of Skylark Park Studio (my 2nd fave place ever).</p><p><br></p><p>He has worked with Sam Roberts Band, Courtney Love, Lindsey Buckingham, the late Chris Cornell and more.</p><p>I am very proud to say he has also been the audio guru behind pretty much all Church of Trees original works.</p><p><br></p><p>This week, he makes a brilliant case for why Joni Mitchell, Neil Young and the exquisite Prince are the essence of cool.</p> e0eabfbd-3cfe-4a06-a5e4-4c4991e861ee https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 02 Apr 2021 18:57:32 +0000 4791 no full S1E3 - Rob Preuss S1E3 - Rob Preuss 3 1 Bernard Frazer In this episode, we talk to the incredibly talented Rob Preuss! You may remember him from the Spoons or Honeymoon Suite, or if you're a fan of Broadway musicals, you might know him as the musical director of the long-running show Mama Mia. Finally, fans of the band Queen and the film Bohemian Rhapsody, might know him for helping Rami Malek hone his piano skills for his Oscar-winning role as Freddie Mercury.


Rob joins us to discuss why music legend David Bowie and the extraordinary Jeff Buckley are the essence of cool.

]]> <p>In this episode, we talk to the incredibly talented Rob Preuss! You may remember him from the Spoons or Honeymoon Suite, or if you&#39;re a fan of Broadway musicals, you might know him as the musical director of the long-running show Mama Mia. Finally, fans of the band Queen and the film Bohemian Rhapsody, might know him for helping Rami Malek hone his piano skills for his Oscar-winning role as Freddie Mercury.</p><p><br></p><p>Rob joins us to discuss why music legend <a href="https://www.facebook.com/davidbowie?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVLkuwpaZcKf2GMJUN2ZobFmWTu0sY9YURJ6DSW3YpVLgefiVO54ytw2r33pk3O0AnenmU7ca1N71_bY9-qRRpYEEGKCLrRmwj8WDhahImK-oUSH0kX2QawiWEqr8V7-FaCl_8_HGizJarSEt49nB9wobXvwFc27dTZ2lc9fGFDFA&__tn__=-%5DK-R" rel="nofollow">David Bowie</a> and the extraordinary <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JeffBuckley/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVLkuwpaZcKf2GMJUN2ZobFmWTu0sY9YURJ6DSW3YpVLgefiVO54ytw2r33pk3O0AnenmU7ca1N71_bY9-qRRpYEEGKCLrRmwj8WDhahImK-oUSH0kX2QawiWEqr8V7-FaCl_8_HGizJarSEt49nB9wobXvwFc27dTZ2lc9fGFDFA&__tn__=kK-R" rel="nofollow">Jeff Buckley</a> are the essence of cool.</p> e40816bb-84b0-4932-be24-dbbb0b436b65 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Wed, 17 Mar 2021 21:55:34 +0000 2640 no full S1E2 - Paul Myers S1E2 - Paul Myers 2 1 Bernard Frazer Podcaster (Record Store Day Podcast), author (A Wizard A True Star: Todd Rundgren in the Studio), musician (Gravelberries) describes why Elvis Costello, Jude Sill, and Stevie Wonder are the essence of cool!

]]> <p>Podcaster (Record Store Day Podcast), author (A Wizard A True Star: Todd Rundgren in the Studio), musician (Gravelberries) describes why Elvis Costello, Jude Sill, and Stevie Wonder are the essence of cool!</p> 468082e3-b557-4973-afce-692cd73236c8 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:30:00 +0000 5485 no full S1_E1 Carole Pope S1_E1 Carole Pope 1 1 Bernard Frazer In the debut episode, we talk to Carole Pope about her storied career as the vocalist/lyricist for the legendary Canadian band Rough Trade. We also discuss Kate Bush and Bjork, who she has chosen as the "essence of cool".

]]> <p>In the debut episode, we talk to Carole Pope about her storied career as the vocalist/lyricist for the legendary Canadian band Rough Trade. We also discuss Kate Bush and Bjork, who she has chosen as the &#34;essence of cool&#34;.</p> f8fb786a-1c23-4005-87ff-670609ca9db9 https://theessenceofcool.com/ Fri, 26 Feb 2021 17:46:48 +0000 3877 no