Hello out there! It’s been a while since I’ve last updated, as I’m sure you’ve noticed. Life has a funny way of getting in the way sometimes, doesn’t it?

That said, I am glad to note that I’m currently working on compiling episode eight of Radioactive State for a triumphant return to the internet airwaves. I’ve already gathered some really fabulous new music and a smattering of older favorites that I’m sure you’ll enjoy.

Soon, my brothers and sisters, we shall once again stomp to the beat!

All you have to do to pick the show up for your Apple mobile device is to clicky this particularly handy podcast subscribing iTunes link. From there, hit the “Subscribe” button, and you’ll be set. Of course, if you’ve been listening to the show thus far and would like to leave a note telling others how cool it is – or just click the stars for a fast ‘review’ – I’m certainly not going to complain about that.

If you’re picking the show up in an RSS reader, or a podcatcher, the feed is at http://www.radioactivestate.com/feed/podcast – potentially a change for some of you, since I had to switch the podcasting plugin I was using.

-_ambrown on flickr

Before anyone freaks out – no, I’m not planning to abandon Radioactive State. To be honest, very little could probably get me to stop this particular side project, as it brings me far too much joy. While I’m no longer DJing out in the clubs, this show still allows me to share music, which is what I always used to love. (And hey, I don’t have to lug craploads of music from place to place!)

The problem is that I haven’t really been thinking like a radio-style DJ when it comes to Radioactive State. I’m still thinking like a club DJ, and that’s just not working with this format. Let me explain….

When you’re putting together music for a club set, there’s always something thematic about it. Even in a location that allows for an eclectic mix, you want to stick with a certain feel, or a certain idea. So as opposed to building “shows” I’ve been building “sets” – songs that follow one particular concept/genre. When it comes to radio – especially an on-demand medium like podcasted shows – thematic shows don’t really fit the bill unless you’re sticking within a neighborhood or two of a particular genre at all times. (And don’t get me wrong, I’m not knocking those who do! It takes a lot of dedication to mine one genre for all the best that’s out there.) Since my intent on this project has never been to stick to one genre, doing thematic sets requires taking the full two weeks to find enough excellent Creative Commons licensed music to fit that one idea.

The other problem with using a club-style thematic mix as opposed to a more eclectic radio-style show is that I can’t really spend time looking up much information about the band. I feel this really does the bands a huge disservice, considering they work their butts off to produce great music and deserve more than a quick nod in the show notes and a link to their site.

What this means for you is that starting with episode #5, you’ll be getting a mix of all manner of great music in each and every show. The other thing is that by (easily) halving research time, I’ll be able to take the podcasts to a weekly schedule. More new music for you, more information on the bands and songs, and less stress in compiling shows. It’s a win-win!

Also, this means I’ll finally have enough time to iron out that annoying iTunes feed issue.

I hope you’ll join me next Wednesday as I take you on a musical ride around the world – and through all manner of different music!

[Edited to add]:  After wrestling with the .htaccess file, purging the permalink cache, and doing a very intricate voodoo dance wherein I sacrificed a toaster with wings glued on it, I believe the RSS feed is now working properly. (At least, that’s what the feed validation services are telling me, so I’m going to go with it.) I’ve resubmitted the feed to the Choirmaster at the Temple of Jobs for inclusion on iTunes.

Let’s hope that the third time I submit it is indeed the charm, and they pass it this time.

- pablin89 on flickr

I had several requests for a nerdcore & geek music podcast after the last episode, which I have taken up the call for. Perhaps because I’m a flaming geek myself, this one is probably the easiest bunch I’ve compiled to date.

Some of them are artists you most likely know – which means that part of this next upcoming podcast will be a great singalong for some of you. Others are a bit more off the beaten path, but definitely worth a listen.

That said, this one will probably weigh in nearer to the 45 minutes mark as opposed to my regular 30, but considering the level of interest this genre seemed to get, I don’t think you’ll mind it too much.

Be sure to check back on Wednesday when Radioactive State, Episode 4 goes live! (And on time this week!)

The next show is going to be a salad of springtime stuff with both energetic and more laid-back songs in the mix. So be sure to check back on Wednesday Thursday when Radioactive State Episode #3 goes live!

Oh, and yes, still working on that iTunes feed thing. They’ve rejected it twice now, but I’ll keep at it.

Since I’d really rather like to stay on the outside of a jail cell, and as I don’t have insane amounts of money for ASCAP/etc. licensing (or civil fees for using that music without licenses) I’ll be doing things a bit differently. The music I’ll be using will primarily be bands that are either releasing under Creative Commons licenses, or bands that I am able to get written permission to feature. Also, to save confusion: if a show is all CC-licensed music, I’ll release that episode under Creative Commons as well. Obviously, if I get a piece that is under a special written license, I’ll point the song out in the show notes so nobody gets in trouble, and of course it means that show will not be released under a CC license.

I already have a handful of shows planned out. The first will start in more of my traditional vein: an industrial dance/alternative feel. The ones after that? Well, I won’t spoil the surprise as to the themes and bands. The important things to know about me are:

• I listen to just about everything with the primary exception of gangsta rap
• I’m really fond of audio silliness, covers, and other miscellaneous tidbits.

For now, best to focus on getting the outlines in place and getting this site set up. Soon, however, I shall start recording and releasing the podcasts. I hope you’ll listen in!