Curator as DJ

A trend that's gathering momentum is the notion of "curators" for the vast aggregation of contemporary popular music digitally available. A curator implies one with a defined point of view, a clear concept of taste, and a sense of direction. Finding curators whose values and judgements one respects is quite challenging.

A way to approach the new year is to suggest "curators" I value. Admittedly, they're not self-proclaimed or institutionally ordained "curators," but these emissaries to music essentially perform a curatorial role through their choices and mixtures. It's fun to listen to their selections, enjoy them, and debate their merits. They're certainly not as stuffy as the art-world suit in the illustration (right) from "Curator as DJ," from Modern Masters, a comic book published by DC Comics for PS 1/MOMA. They also provide one other, unstated, but deeply felt value: a reminder that life is meant to be savored and appreciated.

I have a trio of "curators" in mind. You're more than welcome in the comments to share your own choices.

1. http://www.thebocx.com/ -- Phil Dorsey. Very wordly taste, with a preference for funk, neo-funk, jazz, electronic, r&b, downtempo, acid jazz, but not limited to those genres by any means.

2. Gilles Peterson -- a European providing interesting choices. He has a number of recordings available via the digital transaction sites.

3. Ibiza Sonica -- An Internet radio station that plays club music from the pirate island.

Happy New Year!